Course Modifications
Rainy Pass awaits
Since the 2020 race ended, the ITI organizers have remained committed to holding the 20th anniversary Iditarod Trail Invitational in a manner that would not compromise the health of our athletes, the communities of Alaska, the volunteers or our staff members. We have continually adjusted our operational plans over the past eight months as the COVID-19 situation has evolved and in accordance with guidance from medical professionals. In short, we have focused on the things we can control.
Alaska, like many places in the world, has recently experienced a surge of COVID-19 cases. The spike in cases has prompted government institutions at all levels to implement more stringent COVID-19 mitigation measures. Particularly impactful for the ITI, the remote communities of Alaska have justifiably asked that travel to their areas be curtailed. Historically, pandemics have created disastrous consequences for those remote settlements, so those communities are rightfully wary of outside visitors - even if those visitors have been subjected to the rigorous testing and quarantine requirements the ITI will be implementing in 2021.
Without question, the ITI would not be possible without an informed, engaged and supportive public. The long-term viability of the ITI depends on local partnerships that are based on trust and respect. And, even though the 2021 ITI operational plan was designed to avoid dependence on remote communities, we cannot avoid the potentially destructive message that would be conveyed by sending athletes into territories adjacent to those communities without their approval. On the other hand, the private lodges along the ITI 350 route are looking forward to welcoming ITI athletes and volunteers and have been working closely with our staff to establish processes that will ensure everyone stays healthy.
So, to meet the goals of holding the ITI in a COVID-safe manner while reducing its footprint and strengthening critical relationships along the Iditarod Trail, the plan for the 20th anniversary Iditarod Trail Invitational is as follows:
The ITI 1000 is suspended for 2021. All athletes who are signed up for the 1000 will be contacted directly and given the opportunity to withdraw from the ITI, defer to 2022 or switch to the 350.
The ITI 350 will be run as an out-and-back to Rohn in order to avoid travel near the remote villages of Nikolai and McGrath. Specifics will be released shortly, but athletes can plan on traveling from the start at Knik Lake to Rohn and back to this year’s finish on Big Lake.
We are excited about the challenges this revised route will offer and continuing the ITI’s 20-year tradition of showcasing the power of the human spirit.
- Kyle Durand, Race Director