What’s the rule for mushers sending sleds out to checkpoints on the trail? The past few years have proven that sleds can and do break. Coming through the Buffalo Tunnels or over the snow starved Farwell Burn can tax event the sturdiest of sleds. Also, different portions of the trail lend themselves better to faster sleeker sleds while on other sections mushers prefer sturdier heavy-duty sleds.

The sleds pictured in Unalakleet at 0830 as the sun rises, have been shipped out by mushers.  They are ready and waiting at the checkpoint. The remaining three hundred miles of trail along the coast is very different than the previous 700 miles of the trail. From Unalakleet to Nome, the racers generally prefer a sled that’s more nimble and quick.

McGrath at mile 311 is another popular spot for a sled change. Having navigated the Happy River Steps, the Dalzell Gorge, the Buffalo Tunnels and the Farwell Burn, all areas of the trail that are famous for destroying sleds, some mushers have been looking forward to trading out sleds. For Cindy Gallea in 2016, having a new sled waiting in McGrath was more than just a nicer ride, it was a necessity. Her brake broke out of Rohn. She used wire and a hose clamp to make it functional until getting to McGrath where a new sled was waiting. Cindy advises everyone to never leave home without a hose clamp.

Back to the rule.  The information can be found under Rule 15 that covers sleds – No more than three (3) sleds can be used by a musher during the race after the re-start. No more than two (2) sleds can be shipped beyond there-start. Should a musher use another musher’s sled for any reason that will be considered one (1) of the three (3) allowable sleds. These sleds may be used at the musher’s discretion. (ITC Rules)  

Watch for more Telephoto Stories.  Having worked as an Iditarod volunteer for twelve years and having my camera handy every hour of every day, the Eye on the Trail Iditarod photo library contains roughly 20,000 pictures.  Sharing photos with a brief description to tell a photo story is a great way to share favorite photos and unique pieces of Iditarod history with Iditarod fans, family and friends.  Enjoy and comeback soon for another Telephoto Story.