Iron Dog showcases best of Alaska

In the world of sporting events, motorized endurance races are not completely uncommon. There are a handful of better-known transcontinental competitions pitting not only man against man, but also man against machine, himself and the elements.

Nonetheless, the Tesoro Iron Dog stands alone. At about 2,000 miles in length, the annual race between Wasilla, Nome and Fairbanks is easily the longest snowmachine race in the world. Race fans and officials like to say it's also the toughest snowmachine race in the world and a true test of human and equipment endurance.

It's difficult to argue the point.

The race route traverses some of the most beautiful terrain in the world. But it's also some of the most brutal and unforgiving terrain. Factor in the midwinter start, with its unpredictable host of weather-related variables, and the Iron Dog can be downright awe-inspiring.

This year's race leaders already are closing in on Nome. They left Big Lake on Sunday and headed up the historic Iditarod Trail, following frozen rivers to the foothills of the Alaska Range, before making the climb up and over, into frigid, but flatter, Interior Alaska.

Traveling at speeds that can seem excessive even for four-wheeled vehicles on flat highways, racers keep a pace that strains credulity. Finishing the race is a significant achievement enough for both man and machine. Winning it is monumental.

Vying for the title of 2007 Iron Dog champions are 32 two-person teams. Among them are 15 individual racers from the Valley, including four who have won the race previously.

Another 16 riders entered the Iron Dog in the &#8220trail class,” an only slightly less competitive and rigorous

challenge.

Iron Dog is not just about the people on the trail, though. It's a massive event that takes a massive organizational effort. Indeed, it would not be possible without an army of volunteers and, of course, a host of community-minded business sponsors.

Congratulations to everyone involved. And happy trails to all racers.