Just landed at Rainy Pass and astounded to learn that Martin Buser is in to Rohn at 9 53AM after about twenty hours on the trail. Meanwhile, his second team piloted by Matt Failor is also on the trail to Rohn, maybe three hours back. However, Matt started 66 and Martin started 2nd. When times are adjusted, Matt is only an hour or so behind the boss.
Meanwhile, Aliy Zirkle is pushing the pack and running in third. AT 9 20 AM (check times for the accurate one) she arrived in Rainy Pass. Trying to think global, that means she is four hours behind Martin in the time it takes to travel to Rohn plus we need to add the rest she will take in Rainy Pass. I am guessing that Aliy will rest for at least four hours.
In total, that makes at least 8 hours that Martin put in the bank. However, he will have to pay. Either he will declare his 24 hour mandatory or give the dogs a good rest. Either way, the following pack is going to take back some of his lead.
view of the dog yard from lodge at rainy pass. the dog yard is on the ice of the lake
Martin gambled and it will be great for fans to follow his race. Just as background, many mushers have travelled 169 miles and more in less than 24 hours, but they usually do it in the setting of a 300 mile race. Everybody gets to rest at the finish, eat a big meal, and go home. It will be a case study to see if Martin’s team can keep the mojo after they rest.
Keep in mind that Mitch Seavey, John Baker, Jeff King (just to mention the Iditarod champs further back) are all on schedule for a nine day race. The real pleasure of watching this race is watching strategies unfold.
