Hello friends,

The training is behind them and the trail is in front as 38 teams left the starting line today in Willow, AK. Dog teams were so excited as they were lead to the banner, all of them barking and leaping to get to the start. The countdown begins 10 . . . 9 . . . 8 . . . and finally 3 . . . 2 . . . 1 . . . GO! Then the barking and leaping stop and the racing begins! Awooooooo! For some of my K9 friends the trail is familiar, and for some it’s a new experience. Some are racing for the win, and some are in the race to complete it and learn.

Katie Jo Deeter giving Jeff a high five as he leaves the starting line.

It is way too early to determine a leader – remember they start at 2 minute intervals so we have to wait until all teams have had their 24 hour layover with the differential added in. Anna Berington was the first to leave the starting line so 76 minutes (38 teams x 2 minutes) will be added to her 24 hour time.  Wally Robinson was the last to leave the start so he will have a true 24 hour layover with no extra minutes added.

I’ll continue to keep you posted as the race progresses. 

Tail wags,

Zuma