Today its TAKOTNA to OPHIR 23 miles, OPHIR to CRIPPLE 73 miles
Waking up in TAKOTNA, before sunrise at about 10am, temperature -15 degrees. It seemed to be snowing lightly but I understand that at that temp it comes down like ice crystals. With that the trail changes. It becomes more like gliding. Those that follow may actually find that glide turns to an ice like trail but naturally faster. The mushers all anticipate the weather and change their sled glides, perhaps the lead dog, etc. to meet the needs of the weather on the trail.
There are 6 teams sleeping in TAKOTNA at 8am. Other front runners are on their way to OPHIR.
BRENT SASS was 1st into OPHIR. He has only one dog that has been to NOME before. This can be a detriment but they say not for BRENT. The dogs have an incredible memory and sense of the trail. It is up to the musher to gain their trust and set them up to succeed (just like people).
This answers the question what if there is a "white out" and you can't see the trail. The dogs sense the trail and rely on their memory and if the musher believes in them and sits back they can find their way. Incredible isn't it
and for any IDITAROD needs. This one was carrying DeeDee Jonrowe
(Hey Deedee Lumb!!)
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