The temps are soaring here in Fairbanks. I was awakaned at 5am this morning to snow falling off of the roof in a loud "Whumpff!" and the dogs started barking at it. When I got up, I saw the temperature gauge read 36F!! The radio was saying up to 40F in the hills (that's where we live). I spoke with Manny and he confirmed that the temp was already 40F at our house this morning. Yuck! I hope it cools off soon, or the trails are going to get nasty! Keep checking back for updates, or check out www.yukonquest.com for media information on the Quest.
The vet is coming out later this afternoon to check the dogs and do some spays/neuters, etc. So, lots to do!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Monday, January 29, 2007
Warm temps are hitting
To start, Devlyn had his 2 dog race this weekend. It was 26F and the sun was shining down. Devlyn did great! He didn't have any problems with the sled this weekend, made the turns like a pro and cut another 7 seconds off of his time. Unfortunately, Munchkin decided to poop on the race, so he lost some time. Plus, a bug has been running through the yard, so Munchkin wasn't a 100%. Still, they did a great job...Devlyn took 7th out of 11 racers with a time of 4:07. He's hoping to do even better next weekend. Hopefully, Munchkin will do her business BEFORE the race. Ha ha ha!
Boy, is it WARM out there! I woke up to 30F yesterday morning. But, I had a team to train, so off we went. The dogs ran very nicely, even in the warm temps. The snow was a bit powdery, but the run was nice. This is the line up: Dusk/Just in lead; Hopper/Anya in swing; Feather/China in team; Torus/Ahab in front of wheel; Inu/Jake in wheel. I wanted to give Feather a break from running lead and let her relax in the middle of the team...besides that, she's in heat, and I didn't want any "problems". At least she's in heat now, instead of starting it on the race, like she did last year (that was NO fun!). Anyhoo, the dogs started off real strong and since it was warm, the trail out was real icy, which made it hard to slow the dogs. So, it felt a little "out of control" at first, though really it wasn't. The start of any run is always crazy for me, as the dogs are rarin' to go and really strong. And of course, that's when things will go wrong. So, to get out in one piece with no problems is always something I'm thankful for. You see, it's a bit tricky leaving the yard, with a sharp 90 degree turn just 100 feet from the start, on a road, which is icy. Top that off with a mound of dirt on the inside of the turn, which the dogs always cut into, resulting in me launching off of the mound into mid-air, then slamming down onto the hard packed road. Still, I did it with style. :o) No, not on my face. Ha ha ha!
Things were going well, until we dropped onto the river. Just hates to turn left, so he decided that we were going to go to Fairbanks instead of North Pole. I got them stopped, but the hooks weren't holding in the soft snow. I waved Jodi by me (her dogs are used to the trail and made the left effortlessly), then turned my team, jumping back on the sled as the hooks popped. One of my hooks (I always carry 2) went under the runners and hooked on the other side. I had to get the team stopped, sink the other hook so that I could tip the sled and unwrap my 2nd hook. It actually went exactly as planned...surprise, surprise! Ha ha ha! We got going again, but I think this was Just's first time leading on a river and he was all over the place. Finally, I "Hawed" Dusk over and he dutifully yanked Just back onto the packed trail (though I use the term packed loosely, as it was warm and the snow was powdery). Then, Just stopped to poop and balled up the whole team. "Just, dang it!" I hollered. I had to untangle dogs, but then we got going and Jodi was stopped waiting. I told her what happened and she laughed saying she had heard me holler and knew that Just was up to his old, hard-headed tricks again. I went on ahead of Jodi and we didn't see her again until I stopped to check feet and booty dogs. She wanted me to go ahead of her, but I hadn't been on this trail for over a year and the only other times were always at night. So, I missed the turn off the river, because it looked like it wasn't the turn...picture a wall over 5 feet high of frozen rock/ dirt that the dogs would literally have to claw their way up. I said, "No way, that can't be it" and went by. Jodi yelled that I'd missed the turn. I know I looked at her like she was crazy. She just laughed, parked her team and helped me turn mine, because again the hooks weren't holding in the soft snow. After that, the run was great. We goofed around, taking pictures and such. I wasn't paying attention as we dropped down off of the second dike and when I jabbed for my track, I missed and plowed into the soft snow. Jodi stopped up ahead and asked what happened. I just laughed and said "I was tired, so thought I'd lie down." Jodi said, "No, you were hot and wanted to roll in the snow!" Regardless, we really had a good time. The dogs ran slower than normal due to it being so stinking hot (I started unzipping the jacket and all), but the run was FUN!!! Now, THAT'S why I run dogs. The dogs were happy, tongues lolling, tails wagging; Jodi and I were laughing and having a great time...it was fantastic!!
-Tammi
Boy, is it WARM out there! I woke up to 30F yesterday morning. But, I had a team to train, so off we went. The dogs ran very nicely, even in the warm temps. The snow was a bit powdery, but the run was nice. This is the line up: Dusk/Just in lead; Hopper/Anya in swing; Feather/China in team; Torus/Ahab in front of wheel; Inu/Jake in wheel. I wanted to give Feather a break from running lead and let her relax in the middle of the team...besides that, she's in heat, and I didn't want any "problems". At least she's in heat now, instead of starting it on the race, like she did last year (that was NO fun!). Anyhoo, the dogs started off real strong and since it was warm, the trail out was real icy, which made it hard to slow the dogs. So, it felt a little "out of control" at first, though really it wasn't. The start of any run is always crazy for me, as the dogs are rarin' to go and really strong. And of course, that's when things will go wrong. So, to get out in one piece with no problems is always something I'm thankful for. You see, it's a bit tricky leaving the yard, with a sharp 90 degree turn just 100 feet from the start, on a road, which is icy. Top that off with a mound of dirt on the inside of the turn, which the dogs always cut into, resulting in me launching off of the mound into mid-air, then slamming down onto the hard packed road. Still, I did it with style. :o) No, not on my face. Ha ha ha!
Things were going well, until we dropped onto the river. Just hates to turn left, so he decided that we were going to go to Fairbanks instead of North Pole. I got them stopped, but the hooks weren't holding in the soft snow. I waved Jodi by me (her dogs are used to the trail and made the left effortlessly), then turned my team, jumping back on the sled as the hooks popped. One of my hooks (I always carry 2) went under the runners and hooked on the other side. I had to get the team stopped, sink the other hook so that I could tip the sled and unwrap my 2nd hook. It actually went exactly as planned...surprise, surprise! Ha ha ha! We got going again, but I think this was Just's first time leading on a river and he was all over the place. Finally, I "Hawed" Dusk over and he dutifully yanked Just back onto the packed trail (though I use the term packed loosely, as it was warm and the snow was powdery). Then, Just stopped to poop and balled up the whole team. "Just, dang it!" I hollered. I had to untangle dogs, but then we got going and Jodi was stopped waiting. I told her what happened and she laughed saying she had heard me holler and knew that Just was up to his old, hard-headed tricks again. I went on ahead of Jodi and we didn't see her again until I stopped to check feet and booty dogs. She wanted me to go ahead of her, but I hadn't been on this trail for over a year and the only other times were always at night. So, I missed the turn off the river, because it looked like it wasn't the turn...picture a wall over 5 feet high of frozen rock/ dirt that the dogs would literally have to claw their way up. I said, "No way, that can't be it" and went by. Jodi yelled that I'd missed the turn. I know I looked at her like she was crazy. She just laughed, parked her team and helped me turn mine, because again the hooks weren't holding in the soft snow. After that, the run was great. We goofed around, taking pictures and such. I wasn't paying attention as we dropped down off of the second dike and when I jabbed for my track, I missed and plowed into the soft snow. Jodi stopped up ahead and asked what happened. I just laughed and said "I was tired, so thought I'd lie down." Jodi said, "No, you were hot and wanted to roll in the snow!" Regardless, we really had a good time. The dogs ran slower than normal due to it being so stinking hot (I started unzipping the jacket and all), but the run was FUN!!! Now, THAT'S why I run dogs. The dogs were happy, tongues lolling, tails wagging; Jodi and I were laughing and having a great time...it was fantastic!!
-Tammi
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Food Drops all done
Manny and I were only up until 1am last night, to finish up my Quest 300 food drops. Not bad! We thought we might be up most of the night. :o) Guess I'm getting better at packing...at least that's the theory. I'm truly hoping that I didn't forget anything. I was feeling rather tired last night; so, I had Manny go over my lists to make sure it all looked right. I surely don't know what I'd do without my wonderful husband and partner. He had all of my meat and fish snacks cut up and bagged, as well as my feedings all cut thin and sorted. What a guy! He also tied up my food drop bags, putting a "handle" on each, to make it easier for folks to handle them. He is truly a thoughtful man. The Quest Volunteers at the food drops liked the handles too. :o)
It just doesn't seem right...I gave up 7 bags full of food, snacks, supplies, booties, etc. and I was given a small, yellow slip of paper in return. Too funny! Good news is that Mike McCowan was on hand to give a few of us a trail report. Good snow to go around, though some nasty jumble ice just outside of Pelly. The trail is being re-routed a bit, according to Mike, "Up a hill, then down onto Pelly Farm Rd for about 5 miles." Then, back to the trail to Stepping Stone. He said that was the nastiest sections of jumble ice...hopefully that'll be the worst of it. I'm looking forward to getting out there. Only 2 weeks from today. :o)
I'm off. I'm taking the team for a nice run around the river loop tomorrow with Jodi, then off to a barbeque, of all things! It's certainly warm enough for it. It's still 25F outside right now...positively roasting. Adios!
It just doesn't seem right...I gave up 7 bags full of food, snacks, supplies, booties, etc. and I was given a small, yellow slip of paper in return. Too funny! Good news is that Mike McCowan was on hand to give a few of us a trail report. Good snow to go around, though some nasty jumble ice just outside of Pelly. The trail is being re-routed a bit, according to Mike, "Up a hill, then down onto Pelly Farm Rd for about 5 miles." Then, back to the trail to Stepping Stone. He said that was the nastiest sections of jumble ice...hopefully that'll be the worst of it. I'm looking forward to getting out there. Only 2 weeks from today. :o)
I'm off. I'm taking the team for a nice run around the river loop tomorrow with Jodi, then off to a barbeque, of all things! It's certainly warm enough for it. It's still 25F outside right now...positively roasting. Adios!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Sponsors
This is Conor and I, shamelessly flouting our sponsor logos! A HUGE Thank you to everyone who has pitched in to help with the 2007 Quest 300 race thus far! (More folks will be added as contributions come in.)
- CuppaChena Coffee
- Arbonne Int. Ginger Stock-Mckenzie, Independent Consultant
- R&S Services - Snowplowing
- Hutchison High School Staff:
William & Lyndi Krause, David Hamilton, Frida Shroyer, Greg & Trish Yokum (also Arbonne Independent Consultants), Kitchen Staff & our wonderful Front Office Folks!
Without all of these folks (and more to come!), this venture wouldn't be possible. So,
THANK YOU!!!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Sent it in!
I sent in my bio info along with photo to the Quest office today. I will be dropping my entry off tomorrow after work. I'm halfway to my goal now, but have a few folks who have said they also wish to sponsor me. So, while I'm not quite there to the total amount I need, there are still a few days left to fundraise. I have total faith that we'll make our goal, though it means we'll be up all night on Friday packing the drop bags! Ha ha ha!
On training news, Manny took the team out for a nice run yesterday up the Fireline trail. They did very well, though I guess Just decided to be bull-headed about taking a Haw (that's left in mushing talk), which meant Manny had to go up to pull Just to the Left turn he wanted to make. I had to laugh, as Just has been doing this to me; but, had yet to do it to Manny. They finally went the way Manny wanted them to...but I guess it took 4 or 5 tries to get it through Just's head. The run went well, with the team doing over 20 miles. He said the dogs came in looking real good. Tomorrow, he'll be going out on a 40 miler in the hills. Our dogs are already capable of longer runs, so to keep from burning them out, yet keep them in shape, we alternate short runs with longer runs. This weekend, I plan to do an 80 mile run, then back to 20s-40s until race time.
I could still use more support in the way of funds, so if you wish to contribute, please contact me via email, or you can even donate right online through Paypal! Just click on the donation button. Every little bit helps, from $5 up to $100 and we truly appreciate all the help thrown our way. Cheers, All!
On training news, Manny took the team out for a nice run yesterday up the Fireline trail. They did very well, though I guess Just decided to be bull-headed about taking a Haw (that's left in mushing talk), which meant Manny had to go up to pull Just to the Left turn he wanted to make. I had to laugh, as Just has been doing this to me; but, had yet to do it to Manny. They finally went the way Manny wanted them to...but I guess it took 4 or 5 tries to get it through Just's head. The run went well, with the team doing over 20 miles. He said the dogs came in looking real good. Tomorrow, he'll be going out on a 40 miler in the hills. Our dogs are already capable of longer runs, so to keep from burning them out, yet keep them in shape, we alternate short runs with longer runs. This weekend, I plan to do an 80 mile run, then back to 20s-40s until race time.
I could still use more support in the way of funds, so if you wish to contribute, please contact me via email, or you can even donate right online through Paypal! Just click on the donation button. Every little bit helps, from $5 up to $100 and we truly appreciate all the help thrown our way. Cheers, All!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Thank YOU, my friends!!
Well, thanks to all of the caring folks here at Hutchison, the wonderful school I'm lucky enough to teach at, it looks like the Yukon Quest 300 is a definite! Good thing too, since not only myself, but other teachers plan to use the race, race footage/pictures, etc. in their lessons. What more could a girl ask for, but to bring her passion for sled dogs in to her other passion of teaching?!? This is GREAT!!!! Slowly but surely, support from my fantastic co-workers is adding up to give me the funds needed to enter and race the Quest 300. Look out, Trail! We have some unfinished business, you and I!!
I'm still a ways from my goal, but with all of the support I'm getting from friends, parents and co-workers, I KNOW we'll make it. Manny went over the sled and discovered that we need to replace some plastic, the bits on the brake, etc. to make it safer/sturdier for the race. Plus, a few harnesses need repairs, as a few dogs got "chew happy". If we can raise enough money, then I'll replace those things. If not, then we'll make due. At this point, with so many people counting on me to run this race, I just HAVE to go!
Manny is off training the main team, I'm off to pick up hay for the hay burners (Dang that Druid! He's eating his shelter, the rotund pig with fur!), then pick the boys up from school. Keep checking back, as I add new names to the sponsor list and get that much closer to running the Quest 300!!! :o)
I'm still a ways from my goal, but with all of the support I'm getting from friends, parents and co-workers, I KNOW we'll make it. Manny went over the sled and discovered that we need to replace some plastic, the bits on the brake, etc. to make it safer/sturdier for the race. Plus, a few harnesses need repairs, as a few dogs got "chew happy". If we can raise enough money, then I'll replace those things. If not, then we'll make due. At this point, with so many people counting on me to run this race, I just HAVE to go!
Manny is off training the main team, I'm off to pick up hay for the hay burners (Dang that Druid! He's eating his shelter, the rotund pig with fur!), then pick the boys up from school. Keep checking back, as I add new names to the sponsor list and get that much closer to running the Quest 300!!! :o)
Monday, January 22, 2007
Flu bugs, kid's races and fundraising...
The dogs have had a week off and are back into training again. It was a good thing I gave them time off...there is a flu bug in the kennel. It started with Dusk, throwing up a little bit for a few days, though he ate and drank well, with no diarrhea. But now, the rest of the kennel DOES have diarrhea. That's ok...I'd rather they get it now and get through it than get sick on the race trail. There's nothing worse than getting part way into a race and finding that your dogs are sick and you have to pack it in and go home. It's no fun to be sick, I know I'm a big baby when I'm sick sometimes...so just imagine how the dogs would feel out on a 300 mile race! No THANKS! Still, Dusk was only feeling under the weather for a few days, so I'm thinking that's the time frame for this flu bug.
Manny took 2 teams of 8 out yesterday for a short, fun run to get the dogs out, stretch their legs and take a sled out of our dogyard. It was fun for the dogs, though Manny took a hard bump on the elbow. That Gatt sled steers like a dream....when loaded. Manny wasn't running with any weight in the basket, so the sled was a bit squirrely. Still, he managed to run both 8 dog teams and the dogs came in loping and barking....that's a nice sign! :o) Here's the layout for the 2 teams:
Team 1: Feather/Just in lead, China/Willy in swing, Riley/Plato in team, and Rocket/Inu in wheel.
Team 2: Dutchess/Torus in lead, Booger/Ahab in swing, Dusk/Banjo in team, and Ody/Jake in wheel.
Manny said that he had to hold the team back a bit with Dutchess in lead, as the ole girl has slowed down, but that was ok. She had fun and that's what counted. Manny plans to do 30-40 milers with the main team on Tuesday and Thursday, to keep the dogs in shape and hone the team for the 300. Tricky is still laid off for another week, as he dinged up his wrist pretty bad on the Cantwell race, and though he's not limping now, I'd rather be safe by erring on the side of more rest than take a chance of losing him for my race team. He's a powerhouse and another leader I can use if need be (the boy has some speed!), so I want to be sure to have him healthy and solid for the Quest 300.
On another note, Devlyn had his first race of the season on Saturday. He ran the 2 dog class with Herod and Munchkin (SCL) as his team. He did quite well!! He had to use Dad's sprint sled, as we discovered that with Devlyn's growth spurt over the summer/fall, he is too tall for his kid sled. So, Devlyn used the red sled and started off well. The dogs were hauling down the track. I watched for him to head back up and thought he'd be a few minutes, but lo and behold, there he came flying up the hill. Herod and Munchkin were loping well, all the way to the finish line. Devlyn was covered in snow and it turns out that with him not quite being used to Manny's sled, he dumped it in the corner at the bottom of the field. But, Devlyn was very proud that he hung on, righted his sled, jumped back on then reached down and picked up the snow hook to continue on the trail. He finished in 4th place with a time of 4:14, just 45 seconds from 1st place! Devlyn was very excited and he's determined to practice more with the sled so that he can improve his time next weekend. Go Devlyn!
Well, I'm off. Fundraising is slowly getting there, so it looks like I'll have what I need to sign up for the Quest 300 and get my drop bags packed. I have to thank my wonderful co-workers at Hutchison High School, as they've taken it upon themselves to help me in my efforts. I'm just taken aback at the support and caring being sent my way...it's wonderful.
Stay tuned for more adventures in the weeks to come!
-Tammi
Manny took 2 teams of 8 out yesterday for a short, fun run to get the dogs out, stretch their legs and take a sled out of our dogyard. It was fun for the dogs, though Manny took a hard bump on the elbow. That Gatt sled steers like a dream....when loaded. Manny wasn't running with any weight in the basket, so the sled was a bit squirrely. Still, he managed to run both 8 dog teams and the dogs came in loping and barking....that's a nice sign! :o) Here's the layout for the 2 teams:
Team 1: Feather/Just in lead, China/Willy in swing, Riley/Plato in team, and Rocket/Inu in wheel.
Team 2: Dutchess/Torus in lead, Booger/Ahab in swing, Dusk/Banjo in team, and Ody/Jake in wheel.
Manny said that he had to hold the team back a bit with Dutchess in lead, as the ole girl has slowed down, but that was ok. She had fun and that's what counted. Manny plans to do 30-40 milers with the main team on Tuesday and Thursday, to keep the dogs in shape and hone the team for the 300. Tricky is still laid off for another week, as he dinged up his wrist pretty bad on the Cantwell race, and though he's not limping now, I'd rather be safe by erring on the side of more rest than take a chance of losing him for my race team. He's a powerhouse and another leader I can use if need be (the boy has some speed!), so I want to be sure to have him healthy and solid for the Quest 300.
On another note, Devlyn had his first race of the season on Saturday. He ran the 2 dog class with Herod and Munchkin (SCL) as his team. He did quite well!! He had to use Dad's sprint sled, as we discovered that with Devlyn's growth spurt over the summer/fall, he is too tall for his kid sled. So, Devlyn used the red sled and started off well. The dogs were hauling down the track. I watched for him to head back up and thought he'd be a few minutes, but lo and behold, there he came flying up the hill. Herod and Munchkin were loping well, all the way to the finish line. Devlyn was covered in snow and it turns out that with him not quite being used to Manny's sled, he dumped it in the corner at the bottom of the field. But, Devlyn was very proud that he hung on, righted his sled, jumped back on then reached down and picked up the snow hook to continue on the trail. He finished in 4th place with a time of 4:14, just 45 seconds from 1st place! Devlyn was very excited and he's determined to practice more with the sled so that he can improve his time next weekend. Go Devlyn!
Well, I'm off. Fundraising is slowly getting there, so it looks like I'll have what I need to sign up for the Quest 300 and get my drop bags packed. I have to thank my wonderful co-workers at Hutchison High School, as they've taken it upon themselves to help me in my efforts. I'm just taken aback at the support and caring being sent my way...it's wonderful.
Stay tuned for more adventures in the weeks to come!
-Tammi
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Quest 300 update
Hi all,
My leave from work was approved yesterday, so it's looking like I'll be able to be at the starting line in Whitehorse!! Now, I'm just $600 away from having what I need to complete the race. I'm working on raising funds and I'm blessed with the support of a fantastic bunch of co-workers, parents and students who are backing me. I'm truly warmed by so many people caring enough to help me succeed. It's FANTASTIC!!!
That being said, I'm focusing on keeping the dogs in shape (they've proven that they are ready) and keeping them in good spirits going on short, fun runs. I'll do a few longer runs, but mostly I want to make sure that the team stays healthy and happy. Happy dogs lead to a happy musher and a good time.
News from Whitehorse is that the trail is good, but there are reports of jumble ice on the Yukon around Carmacks and Pelly. How bad, you ask? Me, too! Seriously though, they don't know down at the Quest office as of yet. Still, makes me a little nervous. That jumble ice has been notorious for wreaking havoc on teams and sleds...not to mention the mushers! Not looking forward to that, my friends. (squeek!)
More news to come as I get it.
-Tammi
My leave from work was approved yesterday, so it's looking like I'll be able to be at the starting line in Whitehorse!! Now, I'm just $600 away from having what I need to complete the race. I'm working on raising funds and I'm blessed with the support of a fantastic bunch of co-workers, parents and students who are backing me. I'm truly warmed by so many people caring enough to help me succeed. It's FANTASTIC!!!
That being said, I'm focusing on keeping the dogs in shape (they've proven that they are ready) and keeping them in good spirits going on short, fun runs. I'll do a few longer runs, but mostly I want to make sure that the team stays healthy and happy. Happy dogs lead to a happy musher and a good time.
News from Whitehorse is that the trail is good, but there are reports of jumble ice on the Yukon around Carmacks and Pelly. How bad, you ask? Me, too! Seriously though, they don't know down at the Quest office as of yet. Still, makes me a little nervous. That jumble ice has been notorious for wreaking havoc on teams and sleds...not to mention the mushers! Not looking forward to that, my friends. (squeek!)
More news to come as I get it.
-Tammi
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Heavy snow and high winds
The Cantwell Classic 200 turned out to be a pretty challenging trail. Originally, I entered the race as a fun race to put more experience on the dogs and myself. It turned out to give us more learning experiences than I could have imagined. We started off well, I drew # 25 and Jodi drew #26. With dual starts and Jodi and I being the last two mushers to start, I let Jodi go ahead and go first, then I casually hooked up dogs and took off in my own time. I really liked that!! NO PRESSURE! Since the first leg of the race wasn't timed, I wasn't worried about it. We took off and were flying!!! Andi came up from behind on his snowmachine and hollered at me to slow down. I was already on the drag, and the dogs were having a great time; but, then he yelled, "You're doing 20mph!!!" I said Holy cow and really laid onto the drag. I had to do that for the first 5 miles before the dogs settled into their pace. The trail was nice, but the wind was blowing. Still, with 30 degree F temps, it wasn't bad. Then, we hit the snow.
It snowed over 2 feet the night before the race, then we got another 6 inches during the first day/night. The trail was just powder and all of the dogs had to pretty much swim in it. It was also pretty warm. So, about 2 hours in, I stopped the dogs for a snack and just rested for about an hour. The dogs were peppy, so I petted and played with them, scratched bellies and just acted laid back. We took off again and when we'd hit harder sections of trail, the dogs flew! But, that would last for like 100-200 yards, then we'd plow right back into powder. I was determined to keep my team happy, so I stopped every hour for 5 minutes, making sure to pat the dogs and tell them how well they were doing. By doing this, it took us 8 hours to get to Big Su, 52 miles from the start. But, I wasn't alone. Even the top teams took at least 6-7 hours to make the run...and they did it straight through. By taking my time, resting and all that, I had a nice looking team up arrival, while what I saw around me wasn't so happy. Dogs were shutting down on the trail (passed a musher on the way in who was stuck, team refused to budge), injuries were just crazy! Lots of wrist and shoulder problems, due to the soft, deep snow. There were even a couple of dogs who overheated or worked too hard. The trail was just mentally brutal for the dogs and from what I saw, mushers alike.
I got the dogs fed, watered, and bedded down. They rested pretty well and all was going as planned until folks started talking about the time factor and how long it was taking to get from checkpoint to checkpoint. The dogs really had to get equal rest, because the deep snow and gusting winds were taking a lot out of the teams. It was brutal! Folks were talking about scratching all around me. I didn't like to even think it, but then, when race people said that race support would be pulled after a certain time and that Maclaren lodge was going to charge mushers for the night if they didn't leave that checkpoint by a certain time, I started to realize that I might not finish this race. I knew I had to be back at work on Monday, so when I started to do the math, I realized that I was going to have to cut my losses. However, all was not lost. I realized that even though we were going to have to scratch, I felt good, the dogs looked good (they went crazy when a team left the checkpoint...that team later scratched at Maclaren...and I had a hard time getting them to rest some more) and we were using this race as a training run anyway....so things weren't a total washout. So, the 6 teams that scratched at Big Su rested a full 12 hours, then we headed back to Cantwell.
On the way, wind blew so hard that it picked up my little leader, aptly named Feather, and she slammed into my big, hulking old guy, Torus. Then, the wind took me and the sled all the way to the edge of the highway, where I jumped on the left runner and pulled with all my might to keep the sled from going over the side (there was a gully there...yikes!). Later, I saw caribou playing, then even got to run with them! They ran up onto the highway and ran with me and the team for about a half mile before heading off into the tundra. It was an AMAZING experience that I will carry with me all my life. Where else but here in Alaska can you experience these kinds of wonders???
My team ran well, I had 2 sets of snacks for the run back to Cantwell (which we used), I rested the dogs for an hour on the trail, as Just and Tricky developed wrist sprains...but they were ok to finish the leg after a good rubdown with algyval and wrist wraps...plus, I kept the team slow. We ran all the way to the finish, 57 miles, and came in under the banner and lights to cheers and shouts of congratulations. When I told the checker that I had scratched, he said, "We know...but you still ran the trail all the way back...that was great!" I was so warmed by this support from people who didn't even know me!! I got the dogs to the truck, had a few looked over by a vet (a couple of dogs were a little dehydrated), got warm food and water into them, massaged them all and got them resting in their straw filled compartments. Jodi came in up at the start of the race, but caught a ride for her and her team back to the finish.
Upon reflection, I realized that I didn't have to scratch and could have kept going. I can't say that I don't regret the decision...I do. Looking back, I know that the dogs and I could've finished. So what, if it would have taken us until Sunday afternoon. Still, I had to think about plans for the rest of the season and I really didn't want to jeopardize my Quest 300 run or Manny's 200 milers in March. We have a small kennel and only 1 main race team. So, all in all, the decision was probably a good one....but it has left me with a new found determination and fire in my belly that I've never had before. Looking at the times, my team's speed was about 1/2 hour off of Lance Mackey's speed (the winner) and 20 minutes off of team Seavey's speeds (Mitch and Danny). I really can't complain about that. I also had several people tell me what a good team I have, how good the dogs looked, etc. A girl's gotta like that!!!
The Cantwell wasn't the only race to suffer from the weather (11 scratches with almost as many withdrawals...only 14 mushers finished)...the Copper Basin 300 took heavy hits with a LOT of scratches and very few mushers crossing the finish line (11 finishers out of 26). These two race trails were absolutely brutal on dogs and mushers alike.
Ok, I've gotta grab some food (still hungry, yikes! that race took a LOT outta me...and I was a bad sled dog..I didn't eat or drink well). Keep posted for updates on my preps for the Quest 300. The adventure never stops here at Running Swift Kennel!!! Keep on smiling!
-Tammi
It snowed over 2 feet the night before the race, then we got another 6 inches during the first day/night. The trail was just powder and all of the dogs had to pretty much swim in it. It was also pretty warm. So, about 2 hours in, I stopped the dogs for a snack and just rested for about an hour. The dogs were peppy, so I petted and played with them, scratched bellies and just acted laid back. We took off again and when we'd hit harder sections of trail, the dogs flew! But, that would last for like 100-200 yards, then we'd plow right back into powder. I was determined to keep my team happy, so I stopped every hour for 5 minutes, making sure to pat the dogs and tell them how well they were doing. By doing this, it took us 8 hours to get to Big Su, 52 miles from the start. But, I wasn't alone. Even the top teams took at least 6-7 hours to make the run...and they did it straight through. By taking my time, resting and all that, I had a nice looking team up arrival, while what I saw around me wasn't so happy. Dogs were shutting down on the trail (passed a musher on the way in who was stuck, team refused to budge), injuries were just crazy! Lots of wrist and shoulder problems, due to the soft, deep snow. There were even a couple of dogs who overheated or worked too hard. The trail was just mentally brutal for the dogs and from what I saw, mushers alike.
I got the dogs fed, watered, and bedded down. They rested pretty well and all was going as planned until folks started talking about the time factor and how long it was taking to get from checkpoint to checkpoint. The dogs really had to get equal rest, because the deep snow and gusting winds were taking a lot out of the teams. It was brutal! Folks were talking about scratching all around me. I didn't like to even think it, but then, when race people said that race support would be pulled after a certain time and that Maclaren lodge was going to charge mushers for the night if they didn't leave that checkpoint by a certain time, I started to realize that I might not finish this race. I knew I had to be back at work on Monday, so when I started to do the math, I realized that I was going to have to cut my losses. However, all was not lost. I realized that even though we were going to have to scratch, I felt good, the dogs looked good (they went crazy when a team left the checkpoint...that team later scratched at Maclaren...and I had a hard time getting them to rest some more) and we were using this race as a training run anyway....so things weren't a total washout. So, the 6 teams that scratched at Big Su rested a full 12 hours, then we headed back to Cantwell.
On the way, wind blew so hard that it picked up my little leader, aptly named Feather, and she slammed into my big, hulking old guy, Torus. Then, the wind took me and the sled all the way to the edge of the highway, where I jumped on the left runner and pulled with all my might to keep the sled from going over the side (there was a gully there...yikes!). Later, I saw caribou playing, then even got to run with them! They ran up onto the highway and ran with me and the team for about a half mile before heading off into the tundra. It was an AMAZING experience that I will carry with me all my life. Where else but here in Alaska can you experience these kinds of wonders???
My team ran well, I had 2 sets of snacks for the run back to Cantwell (which we used), I rested the dogs for an hour on the trail, as Just and Tricky developed wrist sprains...but they were ok to finish the leg after a good rubdown with algyval and wrist wraps...plus, I kept the team slow. We ran all the way to the finish, 57 miles, and came in under the banner and lights to cheers and shouts of congratulations. When I told the checker that I had scratched, he said, "We know...but you still ran the trail all the way back...that was great!" I was so warmed by this support from people who didn't even know me!! I got the dogs to the truck, had a few looked over by a vet (a couple of dogs were a little dehydrated), got warm food and water into them, massaged them all and got them resting in their straw filled compartments. Jodi came in up at the start of the race, but caught a ride for her and her team back to the finish.
Upon reflection, I realized that I didn't have to scratch and could have kept going. I can't say that I don't regret the decision...I do. Looking back, I know that the dogs and I could've finished. So what, if it would have taken us until Sunday afternoon. Still, I had to think about plans for the rest of the season and I really didn't want to jeopardize my Quest 300 run or Manny's 200 milers in March. We have a small kennel and only 1 main race team. So, all in all, the decision was probably a good one....but it has left me with a new found determination and fire in my belly that I've never had before. Looking at the times, my team's speed was about 1/2 hour off of Lance Mackey's speed (the winner) and 20 minutes off of team Seavey's speeds (Mitch and Danny). I really can't complain about that. I also had several people tell me what a good team I have, how good the dogs looked, etc. A girl's gotta like that!!!
The Cantwell wasn't the only race to suffer from the weather (11 scratches with almost as many withdrawals...only 14 mushers finished)...the Copper Basin 300 took heavy hits with a LOT of scratches and very few mushers crossing the finish line (11 finishers out of 26). These two race trails were absolutely brutal on dogs and mushers alike.
Ok, I've gotta grab some food (still hungry, yikes! that race took a LOT outta me...and I was a bad sled dog..I didn't eat or drink well). Keep posted for updates on my preps for the Quest 300. The adventure never stops here at Running Swift Kennel!!! Keep on smiling!
-Tammi
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Cantwell, here we come!
Spent the evening last night readying the sled, packing the drop bag and just getting last minute details in order. Jodi and I are off today around 5pm to make the drive to Cantwell, with a stop at a great guy's place, Andi Huetten. He will also be our illustrious handler for the start. The clock is ticking...and I'm getting excited!! I'm like a little girl in a candy shop right now...barely able to contain myself. At least I have an outlet...it makes for very interesting and entertaining classes with my high school students. Tee hee hee!
You can follow the race by checking out www.cantwellclassic.com. There is quite a competitive field, so it should prove to be a very exciting race. Add to that the weather report that a friend sent to me just this morning, and this race could just be a challenging one as well!
A HEAVY SNOW WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT AST
TONIGHT.
SNOW WILL INTENSIFY THROUGH THIS MORNING AS MOIST SOUTHERLY FLOW
OVERRUNS COLDER AIR NEAR THE SURFACE. SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 10 TO
16 INCHES ARE EXPECTED THROUGH THIS AFTERNOON NORTH OF TALKEETNA.
AN ADDITIONAL 4 TO 8 INCHES CAN BE EXPECTED THIS EVENING BEFORE
TAPERING OFF AFTER MIDNIGHT.
As if life wasn't interesting enough...this morning, the neighbor down the street had a state trooper car parked in front of their house...then 2 hours later, there were more troopers. Jodi tried to go to my house and they stopped her. At that point, there were even more police/troopers there and a big, black van of some type. They let her go by, after finally getting a hold of Manny to allow her to go through. Isn't life funny?
Well, I'm off! Wish us luck and we'll catch ya on the flip side!!
-Tammi and the hounds
You can follow the race by checking out www.cantwellclassic.com. There is quite a competitive field, so it should prove to be a very exciting race. Add to that the weather report that a friend sent to me just this morning, and this race could just be a challenging one as well!
A HEAVY SNOW WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT AST
TONIGHT.
SNOW WILL INTENSIFY THROUGH THIS MORNING AS MOIST SOUTHERLY FLOW
OVERRUNS COLDER AIR NEAR THE SURFACE. SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 10 TO
16 INCHES ARE EXPECTED THROUGH THIS AFTERNOON NORTH OF TALKEETNA.
AN ADDITIONAL 4 TO 8 INCHES CAN BE EXPECTED THIS EVENING BEFORE
TAPERING OFF AFTER MIDNIGHT.
As if life wasn't interesting enough...this morning, the neighbor down the street had a state trooper car parked in front of their house...then 2 hours later, there were more troopers. Jodi tried to go to my house and they stopped her. At that point, there were even more police/troopers there and a big, black van of some type. They let her go by, after finally getting a hold of Manny to allow her to go through. Isn't life funny?
Well, I'm off! Wish us luck and we'll catch ya on the flip side!!
-Tammi and the hounds
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Overflow and such
Here's me running the team on the Winter Trail (part of the Quest trail)
Check out the overflow we had to go through...CRAZY!! It looks like we were running up a stream (no, that really IS the trail folks!).
But, Feather and Just took it all in stride.
A well deserved break! From front, Left to right: China, Tricky, Booger (white dog), Inu (Looking left), Rocket, Taurus and Jake in wheel.The pics aren't great, but it was getting dark and they do show some of the overflow/ice we have been encountering on our runs. This is GREAT training for the dogs, as they learn to deal with these types of obstacles and trail conditions. I have no worries with this team...they are really developing into a solid unit. They tackle hills with no problem (you should see "Oh-My-God" Hill that they train on), go through open water, over ice, through fresh snow, etc. I'm getting very excited for the Cantwell on Friday!!! Wish us luck!
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Planning
We'll be finishing up our drop bag tomorrow, and if the temps are a bit warmer, I'm going to take out a couple of small teams to keep the dogs limber. Just is actually doing much better, with no signs of a limp whatsoever. If he maintains this, I may be able to take him to Cantwell. The trail should be easy going, with little to no ice for him to slip on. We'll see. It's still really iffy.
The Quest 300 is not a definite, yet. We did gain a sponsor though!!! Cuppachena, the coffee shop on the corner of Chena Hot Springs Rd and Nordale Rd that I frequent before work most days (ok, just about every day...but, the mochas are soooo GOOD!!) is going to sponsor Running Swift Kennel! I'm VERY excited about this development, but know that I'm still a bit far from what we need to get to Whitehorse. While I REALLY want to run (and I'm GOING to finish!!!) the Quest 300, especially after last year's storm withdrawal; I did tell Manny that I would try to get sponsorship to run it (things are a bit tight this winter). Therefore, here is a breakdown of expenses/needs:
Really, that's not too substantial and it is doable. But, I won't be able to do it alone. Therefore, I could use any little bit of assistance that folks would be able to provide. Do you know of someone who would wish to sponsor a musher?? I'm seriously determined to run this race. The first year, we had so many problems just trying to get to Whitehorse, that I never made it to the starting line (See Quest 250 on my old Training Log). The 2nd time, well, that was last year and I got hurt and ended up stuck in a blizzard on the top of a mountain for 14 hours, with 90 mph winds...and though the race marshal withdrew us, the team and I managed to make the run back out...the only team to do this under our own steam. So, 3rd time will be the charm, right?!? Who knows, maybe we could even WIN this thing!!! Anything is possible.
Well, I guess I'll see if my Guardian Angel(s) are looking out for me. I'll keep you all posted on if the race becomes a reality or not. :o) Stay warm and be happy!
-Tammi and the Fur kids
The Quest 300 is not a definite, yet. We did gain a sponsor though!!! Cuppachena, the coffee shop on the corner of Chena Hot Springs Rd and Nordale Rd that I frequent before work most days (ok, just about every day...but, the mochas are soooo GOOD!!) is going to sponsor Running Swift Kennel! I'm VERY excited about this development, but know that I'm still a bit far from what we need to get to Whitehorse. While I REALLY want to run (and I'm GOING to finish!!!) the Quest 300, especially after last year's storm withdrawal; I did tell Manny that I would try to get sponsorship to run it (things are a bit tight this winter). Therefore, here is a breakdown of expenses/needs:
$300 entry fee
$200 for supplies, meat, musher food, etc.
$250 for diesel to get us there
A race handler for Jodi and I during the race
A place to stay in/near Whitehorse
Really, that's not too substantial and it is doable. But, I won't be able to do it alone. Therefore, I could use any little bit of assistance that folks would be able to provide. Do you know of someone who would wish to sponsor a musher?? I'm seriously determined to run this race. The first year, we had so many problems just trying to get to Whitehorse, that I never made it to the starting line (See Quest 250 on my old Training Log). The 2nd time, well, that was last year and I got hurt and ended up stuck in a blizzard on the top of a mountain for 14 hours, with 90 mph winds...and though the race marshal withdrew us, the team and I managed to make the run back out...the only team to do this under our own steam. So, 3rd time will be the charm, right?!? Who knows, maybe we could even WIN this thing!!! Anything is possible.
Well, I guess I'll see if my Guardian Angel(s) are looking out for me. I'll keep you all posted on if the race becomes a reality or not. :o) Stay warm and be happy!
-Tammi and the Fur kids
Snack break
Here's Feather, looking over Dusk's shoulder. I was moving Just (he's in front of me) out of lead, to give him a break and give Dusk a turn at lead, while China was looking for more snacks (she's there in swing). This was taken by Jodi on one of our 50 mile runs. We stopped briefly to snack the dogs, check feet and take a short break. We were hooked to trees, though the snow was ok in spots for snowhooks.Friday, January 05, 2007
Coldddd...
Well, the boys are at the daycare and Manny and I planned to take teams out today. When we got up, the temperature was -25F. Then, while at Daisy Acres, near Pleasant Valley Store, the temp was -42F and Lynn's dogtruck wouldn't start. We live up on a hill, so it's usually warmer here than in the lower areas and town. That means if we took teams out, we'd be running in -30F temps or colder in most areas that we'd run through. Can you say Brrrrr!?!? The forecast is calling for -40F temps tonight and through the weekend. That's just plain NO FUN! It also makes running the dogs counterproductive, as they burn so many calories just to keep warm, let alone running. Plus, the increased chance of injuries, etc. just isn't worth it. I hope it warms up a bit more, because then we could at least go out for some short runs to keep the dogs limber. I'd planned on running a back-to-back run tomorrow; but, that doesn't look like it will happen. We'll see. At least we got some 50 mile runs on the dogs already, so that's good.
In the meantime, Manny & I are going to do some work on the sleds, start packing my drop bag for the Cantwell race, and just take it easy. I go back to work on Monday. It's been very nice having these past 2 weeks off, as I've been able to run the dogs and spend time with the hubby & kids. It's been great! Too bad it's almost over.
Well, the temp has gone up to -20F, so we're going to go cut meat and such. Ciao!
In the meantime, Manny & I are going to do some work on the sleds, start packing my drop bag for the Cantwell race, and just take it easy. I go back to work on Monday. It's been very nice having these past 2 weeks off, as I've been able to run the dogs and spend time with the hubby & kids. It's been great! Too bad it's almost over.
Well, the temp has gone up to -20F, so we're going to go cut meat and such. Ciao!
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Ready, set....
Preparations are underway for the Cantwell Classic...just 10 days away. Hard to believe that it's almost here. We've picked up the fish, replaced the blade in the saw, picked up more meat, we're going over the sleds, etc. I'll start packing my drop bag (we're only allowed 1 bag) in a few days. We'll get a few more runs on the dogs through the weekend, doing at least one more 50 mile run and double runs. I'll be repairing harnesses (we have a few dogs who've developed a taste for them!), going over gangline, replacing necklines, etc. We ordered a new parka, got more handwarmers, purchased new headlamp bulbs (found that danged spare bulb that I needed the other night!), and another little LED light. Still, lots to do!
On another note, I've decided to run the 2007 Quest 300 this year. However, before this becomes a reality, there are some details that need to be worked out. I'll be working on some fundraising, to hopefully relieve some of the financial burden that going to Whitehorse will entail. I hope to secure a sponsor or two, as I'll need the funds for the entry fee, as well as money for fuel, food, etc. I believe that if things are meant to be, it'll happen. Dreams can and do come true...you just have to want it bad enough. Still, everyone needs a little help once in a while...
In the meantime, I'll be focusing on the Cantwell Classic. I've planned out my race strategy (plan A and a plan B) and have pretty much narrowed down the race team to the 12 dogs I'll be taking. Check back for updates as we get closer to the start line. Thanks for visiting!!! :o)
On another note, I've decided to run the 2007 Quest 300 this year. However, before this becomes a reality, there are some details that need to be worked out. I'll be working on some fundraising, to hopefully relieve some of the financial burden that going to Whitehorse will entail. I hope to secure a sponsor or two, as I'll need the funds for the entry fee, as well as money for fuel, food, etc. I believe that if things are meant to be, it'll happen. Dreams can and do come true...you just have to want it bad enough. Still, everyone needs a little help once in a while...
In the meantime, I'll be focusing on the Cantwell Classic. I've planned out my race strategy (plan A and a plan B) and have pretty much narrowed down the race team to the 12 dogs I'll be taking. Check back for updates as we get closer to the start line. Thanks for visiting!!! :o)
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Crazy runs
Took the dogs and did another 50 mile run yesterday. While loading the dogs, Manny said that I should take the same team that I ran the other day, as it would be good for them. So, off we went. I switched the line-up a bit: Feather & Dusk (lead), Just & China (swing), Booger & Tricky (team), Jake & Taurus (team), and Rocket & Inu (wheel). Jodi took off first, with me following close behind. The run was going well, Jodi led until the hay fields, then I called my team up and we did a running pass by Jodi on Baseline. We led down Pleasant Valley Road, but then Feather refused to take the turn into the field to go to PV store. I told Jodi to go ahead and then had to hook down to pull Feather and Dusk over. They popped the hooks, but I grabbed the sled, then got going again. Jodi led until we crossed the road, then I called the team up and we went on by. A bit later, I stopped to check feet and found that a few dogs had ice balls in their feet; so, I bootied up a few dogs (including Just) and we went off. However, Just didn't like the booties and when he tried to dip with them on, he slipped and fell. I stopped the team and he got up, shook off the snow and I asked him, "What was that, Just??" He looked at me, then lined out with his tug tight. I called, "Alright" and off we went again. We went about 100 yards, then Just did another face plant. I couldn't believe it! I thought, ok, he doesn't like the booties. I took them off and we tried again. At this point, Just started to limp...oh no! It was his left wrist. I loaded him in the sled (he didn't like that!) and took off again. I told Jodi to go ahead of me and followed behind her, trying to keep Just in the sled. But, that dog was determined and while I was navigating through Colorado Creek, he made a break for it and dove out of the sled. I had a neckline on him, so when he jumped out, it tipped the sled. I almost lost the team; but, managed to hang on to the sled and Just. I got the team hooked down and looked at Just. He was straining towards the team, trying to get up to them. He was putting weight on his wrist, so I said, "Ok Just, I'll let you run...but we'll have to take it slow." I put him farther back in the team, pulled Booger up into swing and we went again; but, slower. He was doing fine; but, there was no way I was going to take him up to Stiles Cabin because the downhill would do more damage. I told Jodi to go ahead up to the cabin, and I continued up to the rifle range, which was only another 2-3 miles.
I kept going and it was getting dark; so, I turned on my headlight. Only a few minutes later, my light went off...the bulb blew. I stopped and looked for the spare bulb, but it wasn't there! That's when I remembered where my spare headlamp was...sitting on the shelf in the shop, where I had put it when I was cleaning out the sled. It figured. The one time I didn't have a backup light, I needed it. Micah came up behind me at that point, but he didn't have a spare bulb either. He told me to go ahead in front of him, as the range was just ahead and he'd pass me there. I snacked the dogs at the rifle range and was going to rest them a bit. I massaged Just's wrist, but the team was barking and pulling to go. We took off and ran about 10 miles in the dark...I planned to get a new bulb at PV store. I knew the trail well and could see the dogs in the dark. Just seemed to be doing better and the team was moving well. Two mushers did a head on pass with me, but since I didn't have a light, they didn't see me right away. I told the second musher sorry, and that my light had blown. It turned out to be Kelly. She tossed me a spare light and took off. Boy, was I thankful for that, as it was still snowing and getting harder to see. We ran a few miles more, when I noticed Just was starting to have a hard time. I stopped and told him, "Buddy, you have to ride in the sled." I put him in and zipped up the bag. Just crawled to the front of the sled, then laid down and rode quietly. How about that?
We finished the 50 mile run strong. The other 9 dogs ran well until we passed PV store, then they slowed down. I stopped on the trail, cleaned feet (this was the 4th time), and we took off, running well again. We got past Jenny M creek, and they slowed again! Phew, I knew it was a bit rough slogging through fresh snow with an extra 50 lbs in the sled (Just is heavy!) and one less dog pulling; but this was crazy! I checked feet again, then decided to give them another snack. That did the trick! After a few minutes, the dogs picked up and we loped the rest of the way to Jodi's (about 5 miles). As soon as I got home and unloaded the dogs, Just got an Algyval rubdown and a Rimadyl. I fed and watered, then just watched the dogs move. Inu was limping...same wrist as Just. I flexed the wrist, the leg, the shoulder...nothing...but sure enough, he'd limp. I massaged his wrist (no swelling...that's good) with Algyval and gave him a Rimadyl as well. I've decided to give the dogs a few days off, then we'll do some short runs to keep them limber. Just is off until race time. At that point, I'll have to re-evaluate him; but, I think he'll be staying home. Stubborn guy that he is, I hope he'll prove me wrong. But, I'd rather leave him home to ensure that his wrist is 100% than risk injurying him for the season.
Well, I'm off to toss the dogs their meat for the day. Have a good one!
-Tammi
I kept going and it was getting dark; so, I turned on my headlight. Only a few minutes later, my light went off...the bulb blew. I stopped and looked for the spare bulb, but it wasn't there! That's when I remembered where my spare headlamp was...sitting on the shelf in the shop, where I had put it when I was cleaning out the sled. It figured. The one time I didn't have a backup light, I needed it. Micah came up behind me at that point, but he didn't have a spare bulb either. He told me to go ahead in front of him, as the range was just ahead and he'd pass me there. I snacked the dogs at the rifle range and was going to rest them a bit. I massaged Just's wrist, but the team was barking and pulling to go. We took off and ran about 10 miles in the dark...I planned to get a new bulb at PV store. I knew the trail well and could see the dogs in the dark. Just seemed to be doing better and the team was moving well. Two mushers did a head on pass with me, but since I didn't have a light, they didn't see me right away. I told the second musher sorry, and that my light had blown. It turned out to be Kelly. She tossed me a spare light and took off. Boy, was I thankful for that, as it was still snowing and getting harder to see. We ran a few miles more, when I noticed Just was starting to have a hard time. I stopped and told him, "Buddy, you have to ride in the sled." I put him in and zipped up the bag. Just crawled to the front of the sled, then laid down and rode quietly. How about that?
We finished the 50 mile run strong. The other 9 dogs ran well until we passed PV store, then they slowed down. I stopped on the trail, cleaned feet (this was the 4th time), and we took off, running well again. We got past Jenny M creek, and they slowed again! Phew, I knew it was a bit rough slogging through fresh snow with an extra 50 lbs in the sled (Just is heavy!) and one less dog pulling; but this was crazy! I checked feet again, then decided to give them another snack. That did the trick! After a few minutes, the dogs picked up and we loped the rest of the way to Jodi's (about 5 miles). As soon as I got home and unloaded the dogs, Just got an Algyval rubdown and a Rimadyl. I fed and watered, then just watched the dogs move. Inu was limping...same wrist as Just. I flexed the wrist, the leg, the shoulder...nothing...but sure enough, he'd limp. I massaged his wrist (no swelling...that's good) with Algyval and gave him a Rimadyl as well. I've decided to give the dogs a few days off, then we'll do some short runs to keep them limber. Just is off until race time. At that point, I'll have to re-evaluate him; but, I think he'll be staying home. Stubborn guy that he is, I hope he'll prove me wrong. But, I'd rather leave him home to ensure that his wrist is 100% than risk injurying him for the season.
Well, I'm off to toss the dogs their meat for the day. Have a good one!
-Tammi
Monday, January 01, 2007
Happy New Year!
The moon is bright, spreading her lovely light over the freshly fallen snow. The dogs are all nestled in warm, fluffy beds of straw. The horses are munch, munch, munching away on some lovely hay on this crisp, winter's night. The boys are snuggled under the covers, looking so innocent and sweet in their slumber. Worn out from the evening's adventures of food, fireworks, music and fun. Onyx and Radar are dreaming doggie dreams, curled up on the dog beds I made for them, while Lady and Jaeger are curled up on the furniture (Lady on the couch with me, Jaeger in the chair with Manny). The cats are also curled up on the furniture, purring away in their slumber, comfortable and cozy. Though some may feel that our lives are boring, we feel that our lives are full and wonderful. We are happy to sit together here in our own home, having hot tea and watching a movie. We can hear the neighbors celebrating the turning of the Year with loud pops and bangs, as they set off private fireworks. Happy New Year to All! Here's hoping 2007 is all you hope it will be!
Manny, my wonderful husband, fixed my sled for me; so, it's off on another 50 miler tomorrow with a 10 dog team. I have things ready, just have to figure out which 10 dogs to take. While I'd love to take the same team I ran on Friday, I have 3 other dogs to run from the A team and still haven't decided which 12 dogs I'll be taking with me to Cantwell. Here are the candidates:
Feather (L), Just (L), Dusk (L), Taurus (L), Riley (L), China (will Lead), Tricky (L), Willy, Jake (will Lead), Booger, Rocket, Inu, and Ody. Decisions, decisions.
It is really nice to look at these guys and see so many leaders in the mix. Makes me lean towards taking all of the leaders, then filling in...but Riley has been off and on this season; so I'm not sure if he'll go or not. I'll run him tomorrow and see. I'll have my team picked by the end of next weekend (I hope!).
Happy 2007!!!
Manny, my wonderful husband, fixed my sled for me; so, it's off on another 50 miler tomorrow with a 10 dog team. I have things ready, just have to figure out which 10 dogs to take. While I'd love to take the same team I ran on Friday, I have 3 other dogs to run from the A team and still haven't decided which 12 dogs I'll be taking with me to Cantwell. Here are the candidates:
Feather (L), Just (L), Dusk (L), Taurus (L), Riley (L), China (will Lead), Tricky (L), Willy, Jake (will Lead), Booger, Rocket, Inu, and Ody. Decisions, decisions.
It is really nice to look at these guys and see so many leaders in the mix. Makes me lean towards taking all of the leaders, then filling in...but Riley has been off and on this season; so I'm not sure if he'll go or not. I'll run him tomorrow and see. I'll have my team picked by the end of next weekend (I hope!).
Happy 2007!!!
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