I scurried back to the cabin to unload the photos taken that day,
grabbed a quick bite and headed down to the checkpoint headquarters.
Knowing the speed of the lead sled dog team and the distance from where
I left them I figured it would be a 5pm arrival.
The check in crew is ready and spectators had a great view as the teams
pulled down Brazel Street and through the gates.
Number 18, who I had photographed on the trail, pulled in at 4:53 pm.
A few minuets later #10 Frank Teasley checked in shortly followed by
Tasha Stielstra who stopped for a short interview with channel 6 Marquette.
For hours teams would pass through the checkpoint and post their times.
I've got to hand it to those dogs, they all looked good and pulling like
the champs they are through some fairly rough conditions. It amazed me
how all those dogs can work as a single minded machine. I can't
even get my one dog to pay attention half the time. It takes years of training
and the right kind of dogs for this game! And beautiful they were.
You just can't get enough photos of man's best friend. Although I know nothing
about sled dogs they are all winners as far as I could see.
At the check point the dogs are inspected by a veterinarian
to insure each is in good condition to continue the race.
The sleds are also checked for the required items that each
team must carry. Most of it is standard survival gear
such as first-aid kit, compass, flashlight, fire, food and shelter is case of trouble
along the trail. The same kind of things I carry in the snowmobile
pack on most days, along with a tow rope, flairs, radio, extra clothes
and some camera gear. But at least I did not have to carry dog food, most of the time.
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Tasha Stielstra - #15
