Two Rivers Solstice Start

Meghan getting the sled ready
Aliy #5
The kennel crew, joined by veteran race handler Bob Hauer and his dog truck, loaded dogs at 8:00AM and headed off for the long 2 mile drive to Pleasant Valley store where the Two River Solstice Race started at 11:00AM.  Twenty-four excited dogs burst out of their boxes ready to go.  At about 15 degrees, it's a perfect race day. In a quirky twist, Aliy drew bib #5 (the same as Allen for the CB300) for the start of the 100 mile race, and Meghan drew #1 position for the 50 mile race.  Race officials described the trail as two loops. The first loop is 46 miles, followed by a 4 hour mandatory rest at the Pleasant Valley Store. This is the end of the first race for Meghan and the Yearlings. The second loop is almost the same, but only 32 miles.  For those of you math geniuses, this adds up to a total of 78 miles and not 100 miles. Regardless, it's a fun race to be a part of, and takes mushers through some of the best trails that Two Rivers has to offer.

Aliy left on her race at about 11:08 AM in 5th position and is expected back at the Store at around 2:30-3:00pm. Meghan will be coming in within 30 minutes after her for the 50 mile finish.  Hopefully, I'll be able to post the standings shortly after that.  Here are a few photos and video from the start this morning.

Aliy's Red Team Ready to Run