In McGrath waiting for a finisher in the 350 mile event

I made it to McGrath!  It was a beautiful sunny day, the flight provided amazing views of the Alaska Range, Denali and what might be the Iditarod Trail.  Four wives/girlfriends of racers flew out to the finish line with me.  We are ready to cheer in Neil Beltchenko in his second year racing on the Iditarod Trail. He is far ahead of Clinton Hodges III from Anchorage and defending champ Jay Petervary who is riding the 1000 mile race.  The temperature in McGrath is 0F with no wind today.  Was told by residents that the  wind has been blowing the last two days. Neil is making really good time despite having to push his bike in places. 

Kathi Merchant

co race director