INSIDE THE LAST ITI350 CHECKPOINT

When ITI350 athletes arrive in Nikolai, pressure is high. It’s the last checkpoint before the finish line.

Resting and eating becomes more important than ever after a few days on the Trail in difficult weather conditions and ahead of the last big push before McGrath.

Iceland athlete Bergur Benediktsson, from Reykjavic, Iceland has just left the checkpoint for the last stretch of the race.

Inside the lodge Aaron Wilbur, Casey Fagerquist and Jamie Hollingsworth are appreciating a welcome break from the effort. Joining them is Petr Ineman, from Downers Grove, Illinois, who has arrived shortly.

Volunteer George masters a perfect burger, in fact so delicious that Aaron has thoroughly enjoyed his 4th serving and there’s been banter about turning the checkpoint into “Chez George at Nikolai, tastiest burgers with 5 star reviews”.

If all the athletes are 100% into the race, humour and good food is what helps them to take some of the pressure off and rest more efficiently. They leave refreshed and ready to tackle on the last part of their race.