Going to Race in the Iditarod?

If you are an Iditarod fanatic you are in the minority. There are not a lot of people who participate or cheer on this event; but that does not mean that you cannot get involved. If you are interested in competing in the Iditarod there are a couple of tips that you will want to keep in mind.

1. Make sure that you are very organized. This is one of the most important things to remember if you are going to compete in the Iditarod. If you are not 100 percent organized you will have no chance of winning the race, and you may even put yourself in danger. Remember, this is a grueling event that takes places in a very cold climate. If you forget even one item that you need you will be in deep trouble.

2. If you are going to be competing in the Iditarod you are going to be standing on a sled for up to 18 to 20 hours per day. This takes a high level of both mental and physical endurance. During the race you will have to use all of your physical strength in order to help the dogs stay on pace. Your mind will also be tested as you fight the cold weather, physical fatigue, and your competition.

3. Make sure that you are always on the same page as the dogs you will be traveling with. You need to know your dogs as well as you know yourself. In the months leading up to the race you will want to spend as much time as possible with your dogs. This way you will know all of their tendencies, and at the same time they will be used to working with you.

4. Research the event to the fullest extent if you are going to be participating for the first time. Knowledge is power during this race; so the more you know the better off you are going to be in the long run. It is always a good idea to try and speak with a season professional before you take on the Iditarod for the first time.

The Iditarod can be a very fun and rewarding event. If you are interested in participating make sure that you are always prepared, and that you do tons of research!