Solstice Update

We've just had word that Spencer and the Red & Black team has pulled into the half-way checkpoint at the shooting range at 4.56pm. Their run time for the (approx) 50 miles is 5 hours 50 minutes.

They're making great time, especially if you keep in mind he is racing a number of yearlings in their first ever race! Their schedule will include a few rest/snack stops and their pace will be limited.

Spencer drew bib #4 and left the Pleasant Valley Store at 11.06am (right). Teams will make up their time differential at the checkpoint so the R&Bs will have to stay at least the mandatory 4 hours plus an extra 18 minutes. Their expected departure time is therefore 9.14pm at the earliest.

I grabbed these pics from the TRDMA Facebook page so all credit goes to their photographer Sandy Steffenson for capturing these fantastic images in the half-light of winter sunrise.


Tinder, Sandy and Commando ready and waiting


Ray and Allen send Spencer and the Red & Black Team on their way in the Solstice 100

It turns out that Aliy and her Red Team were the only entrants into the Solstice 50 (which started after the 100 mile race) so although they won't get too much exposure to passing and being passed it will still be a valuable exercise for the youngsters.

Setting off amongst all the hub-bub, following a trail that 12 other teams have just been on, seeing trail markers and spectators, and pulling into a checkpoint will all be new experiences for these guys.

And I don't know about you but I can't wait to hear how Chipper and Woody got on in lead in their rookie race!!


Woody and Chipper get some last minute advice from Beemer before setting off in the Solstice 50

You can follow all the action on the Two Rivers Dog Mushers Facebook Page.