YeeeeHaawww! We did it! Team Epic Journey managed to grab the red lantern in the San Juan Stage Stop in Manco’s and Silverton, CO. We competed in the 85 mile race (3 stages in three days). Although all three of our mid-distance training races were cancelled due to lack of snow, we decided to head out and give it a try. All those late night four wheeler training miles might be enough?

After two and a half days of driving, dropping dogs and dreaming of getting there, we made it to Hesperus, CO (7,000 ft elevation) on February 6th. A short run on a local trail to warm the dogs up, showed they were is great shape and form.

Gregg and Gretchen Dubitt were kind enough to put us up at their place. Thanks a million! I managed to gain the nickname as the abominable straw man.

(Sorry Gretchen!)

Race Day 1, Mancos, CO.

The race began on Friday the 10th. I had serious doubts. Temperatures had been in the high 40's on the 9th and I hadn't recovered from seeing the team so slow on the 7th. Temperatures were in the 20's and a wind was blowing. We headed out strong but the dogs must have sensed my mood. They started dipping snow and goofing off within the first 3 miles. A LONG and STEEP climb awaited us. I must have switched leaders five times. Finally, the team decided that the course was too beautiful, or I was too goofy and started to have fun. They kicked into a nice trot and we finished the 30 miler in good spirits. While I thought we must be an hour behind everyone, we were only ten minutes behind the next team.

Day 2. Mancos, CO

How would the team do on day 2? We headed out on FIRE! The dogs were UP! Spirits were high and the dogs knew how much fun was ahead. We didn't get passed until 10 miles into the race. It was a spiritual day. The team climbed like champs but my lack of good foot care showed up in the last 4 miles to the finish. The team didn’t hold my ignorance against me and I learned a hard lesson.

Day 3. Silverton, CO.

The dogs looked good and we headed out strong. Pretty soon they settled into a slow pace. I figured," hey ,so what? We've come so far to such a great place, the dogs are happy, lets just finish." They picked up considerably as teams came up from behind.

I had botties on Rio's rear feet and they fell off at mile 10. Had to stop. All the other teams passed us. The dogs were slow but very happy. They all pulled honestly and I even had one watching the scenery as he pulled (Frisco).

The finish was exalting! We had done it!

Happy dogs, happy musher, happy times! While our total race time for all three stages was 30 minutes slower than the other teams, this race was incredible. I didn't really go to race but to experience the journey with the team. I'd have to say they did beyond my expectations. They were so strong and honest. I learned so much about my team, foot care, and watching them run. Even the serious musher’s, pushing to win, cheered us on and gave encouragement as they passed. Great folks, Great scenery, Great time!

I would like to thank my girlfriend/handler Lynn for all her hard work and patience. We couldn't have done it without you!

All your patience (with me), assistance with the dogs and companionship helped to make this trip a lifetime achievement.

Thanks!

See the Montrose Newspaper article and pictures!