UAF West Ridge Skijor Race

By Brian Charlton, Race Director

Despite temperatures well below zero, 22 skijorers and 29 dogs showed up to race the annual ASPA West Ridge Skijor Race on the University of Alaska Fairbanks trails.  A new reroute on the Big Whizzy Loop took the one to three dog teams on some thrilling hills.  The most popular event was the 4.5 mile one dog event.  UAF skier Wyatt Mayo, with Sasha Fierce, won in 17:44 followed by Jamie Johnson and Bode in 18:49.  The 4.5 mile 2/3 dog race was won by Sara Elzey with Faero, Kate, and Rupert, with the fastest time of the day in 17:13.  Second place was Michael Sheriff with Taiga and Clyde in 18:22.  The longest race of the day was 9 miles with both participants fielding one dog.  Bruce Miller and Roy sped through the course in 41:25 followed by Shawna Henderson and Penny in 54:32.  The one mile beginner race featured 10 year old Gentry Johnson and Wrangle in 3:57, four seconds faster than second place Stephanie Maggard with Gunner and Tundra in 4:01.