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I can't believe I'm actually going back for my third year in a row racing the Iditarod Trail Invitational. I had sworn I would never do a winter bike expedition. Just like I'll never climb Everest. My body's just not good in the cold, but...
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RISK = REWARD
I want to take people along for the ride, and share this journey with you. The ITI showed me that I'm far more capable than I gave myself credit for in these kinds of extreme environments. I would have never believed I could survive in the depths of the Arctic winter on my own without this challenge. I want to inspire others to realize they can achieve things they might not believe they can do.
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ROUTE INFORMATION
The 2021 ITI will follow an out-and-back route along the historic Iditarod Trail from its trailhead at Knik Lake to the remote camp of Rohn and returning to Big Lake for the race’s conclusion.
REBECCA'S PREP
My experiences in 2019 & 2020 taught me a lot about gear, nutrition and mental toughness in the extreme Alaskan environment. This year I return to Alaska as a fitter, more knowledgeable athlete. My gear is dialed in. My nutrition has been carefully calculated. I'm ready for this challenge.
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Check out my past rides as well as my tip for gear prep!
IMAGES FROM THE TRAIL
COVID-19 PROTOCOLS
For the first time ever the course has changed to avoid isolated native communities. As a first responder I am being vaccinated for Covid-19. All participants will be tested prior to arriving in Alaska and again before starting the race. Strict mask and distance protocol have been put in place and any indoor facilities or check points have limits on number of people inside. My decision to participate was ultimately based on the updated route and safety precautions the event directors are taking to keep the remote communities safe.
© Rebecca Rusch // Idaho, USA // All rights reserved. // 2024