Revamped Iditarod brings equipment adaptations and a fast pace as mushers cross the Alaska Range
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ROHN — A day into the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, a fast trail and shortened route are making for a quicker race than normal.
Mushers are adapting to this year’s pandemic-adjusted trail in a number of ways, as evidenced by their equipment. Recent rule changes and the absence of shelter options in checkpoints mean competitors are using larger sleds and hauling “tail-dragger” trailers for hauling supplies, sleeping options and dogs.
“We got this fun new tent, it looks like a play kennel,” said Bethel musher Victoria Hardwick during a break Monday at Finger Lake. “You don’t have to use your fingers or anything.”