The “Tracker” of Old! Way before Internet!
Wow! What a field has shown to compete for the 2020 K300 Crown!
It was the who’s who of mushing as mushers gathered to begin the 2020 Kuskokwim 300 Sled Dog race. K300 Champions, Iditarod Champions, Yukon Quest Champions!
It is the veritable cream of the crop of competition and a $160,000 purse just caps of what should be some of the best dog sled racing action anyone could ask for. The weather is supposed to be perfect with sunny skies, light winds, and temperatures near zero. The trail is very nice and there is even a truck trail up the Kuskokwim.
It was deja-vu in a lot of ways as we gathered to hear Myron Angstman quiet the crowd of mushers and handlers and welcome everyone to the 41st running of easily the greatest mid-distance dogsled race in the world. Of the 21 Teams entered in this year’s race, only one rookie will leave the Starting Line tomorrow, so virtually everyone knew what was to happen in the coming days.
Mid-Distance dogsled racing is a way different event than long distance racing. The Iditarod and the Yukon Quest draw teams to compete, but often just to complete the event. It is a challenge that just running one time and finishing can be a lifelong dream. Mid-Distance racing, though, is much different. These Teams are gathering for to compete. The Kuskokwim 300 draws the best of the best and has a great purse. So Teams get to compete against the best of the best. It’s like the final four in basketball, or the NFL playoffs. Make no mistake, these Teams are here to win this thing!
The Bogus Creek also has this same flavor. Village Teams are here for bragging rights and a purse that pays out thousands of dollars as well. In fact, the Red Lantern in the Bogus Creek 150 will win over almost $7000!
With hot competition, great weather, and a large purse, the 2020 Kuskokwim 300 has the makings of showing off the best this sport has to offer.
Teams select their position in the order of signup. This Year Pete chose #2, so he will leave the chute in the first duo right at 6:30pm.
Ron, Pete’s Dad, will leave with Bib #6 at 5:04pm for his 150 mile run.
Obviously I’m pretty excited to see all of these beautiful Teams tomorrow. Come join us and cheer the 2019 Iditarod Champion on his first race of the 2020 season!
Go Team Kaiser!
