Saturday, February 8, 2003
Famed race might have to alter traditional route
Associated Press
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Iditarod race organizers met Saturday
to explore holding the March 2 restart in Fairbanks because of
dismal trail conditions to the south.
''It's sure looking like the weather calls for it,'' musher
DeeDee Jonrowe said. ''I think it's a really good alternative. If
it's between that and not having the race, this is great.''
Such an extreme change would be unprecedented in the 30-year
history of the 1,100-mile race from Anchorage to Nome.
Mushers said race organizers plan to meet with Fairbanks
officials Monday to work out logistics.
Race officials were mum about their plans.
''I really can't say anything,'' race director Joanne Potts said
Saturday night. ''The board will make a decision Tuesday and then
an announcement.''
The timing is crucial because Wednesday is the food drop-off
deadline for mushers participating in the 31st Iditarod Trail Sled
Dog Race.
According to mushers, officials were busy notifying them about
the likely new route, which would travel from Fairbanks to Nenana,
Manley, Tanana, Ruby, Cripple and Ophir before linking back to the
southern route traveled on odd-numbered years.
There's hope the March 1 ceremonial start will remain in
Anchorage. But the spring-like temperatures this year have created
treacherous conditions along the route near the traditional restart
site in Wasilla and beyond. Mushers say the risk of injuring their
dogs is great.
Randy Chappel, a rookie from Arlington, Texas, said he reacted
to the news with mixed feelings. A part of him was disappointed he would not get to experience a classic route in the famous
race.
''A bigger part of me is glad that these people are working so
hard to make sure there's a race somewhere,'' he said. ''At least I
can experience part of the original trail. And it might be a good
excuse so I can come back and try it again.''
