Commentary by Jerry Bath
The mushers, handlers, dogs, and race staff are relaxing with a rest day today before the furious race to the finish. This break in race action is done for several reasons. It brings us back around to the finish line this weekend in Teton County, WY, where we started last Friday, and gives the mushers less time traveling in the dark, rushing to get to the next stage. Weather depending, with approximately 4-6 hours travel time from Lander, WY to Driggs, ID, where Stage 6 starts tomorrow. Anyone towing a trailer can NOT go over Teton Pass and will have to loop around via Alpine. As an organization, we coordinate the stages to make this race run as smoothly as possible logistically.
This rest day also gives the mushers a chance to provide a little extra dog care. Stretch out the legs, massages, laser treatments, chiropractic adjustments, and all-around pampering time. Plus, the handlers get to help the mushers get back in the right space physically and mentally, making it a dedicated team effort all along the way.
Remember, the Pedigree Stage Stop Race is all about the dogs and their well-being… this matches right up with the uniqueness of using the pool of dogs in this race format plus the outstanding level of dog care both by the mushers and our fantastic team of veterinarians.
Tomorrow, Feb. 5, the race resumes in Driggs, ID. Follow along on this Website, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube as we bring you updates as soon as we can.
In the meantime, here’s a little driving music to get you to the next stage, provided by Screen Door Porch – Aaron Davis. Enjoy.
