Frigid cold weather, 1,770-kilometre's (approx. 1100 miles), and two weeks of continuous physical exertion.
For those of you that have never heard of the Iditarod, it is simply the world's most extreme sporting event. Currently taking place in Alaska, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race runs from Willow Lake (80km from Anchorage) to Nome, Alaska and takes anywhere from 8 to 15 days to complete.
This grueling race covers frozen lakes, tundra, trails, forests, mountains, rivers, and other trecherous stretches of terrain. Don't underestimate the endurance and physical ability this race requires. Yes, the dogs may be doing the majority of the running, but one lapse in navigation, concentration, or guidance, and the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race can turn deadly.
The past four years, Alaska native Lance Mackey has won the Iditarod, and is again in the field this year. And don't assume this is a race for men alone. Every year, women endure this incredible race including four time winner Susan Butcher and the first woman ever to win the race Libby Riddles.
Referred to as the "Last Great Race on Earth," the Iditarod Trai Sled Dog Race is extraordinary. For the average sports fan this event might seem a little out to left field, then again, nothing about the Iditarod is average. Not the athletes, not the feat of finishing, not the conditions, and certainly not winning the Iditarod.
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