Difference between revisions of "Iditarod"
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| − | The '''Iditarod''' is a [[race]] in northern [[Alaska]] held every year in winter, when there is snow on the ground for [[sled]]ding. In the Iditarod, everyone gets on their sleds, which are then propelled by dogs on a track between [[Anchorage]] and [[Nome]]. The race can be | + | The '''Iditarod''' is a [[race]] in northern [[Alaska]] held every year in winter, when there is snow on the ground for [[sled]]ding. In the Iditarod, everyone gets on their sleds, which are then propelled by dogs on a track between [[Anchorage]] and [[Nome]]. The race can be grueling; sometimes it takes as many as eight or nine days to complete the course. The dogs frequently have to stop to drink, since [[hypothermia]] is a great danger during the cold Alaskan winters. |
The first racer to cross the finish line in [[Nome]] receives a green lantern as a ceremonial prize, and the last racer receives a red lantern. | The first racer to cross the finish line in [[Nome]] receives a green lantern as a ceremonial prize, and the last racer receives a red lantern. | ||
Race relations in the United States have been poor; the [[ASPCA]] in particular is vehemently opposed to what it sees as exploitation of the dogs, despite the fact that they are fed well and kept on short chains while kenneled. | Race relations in the United States have been poor; the [[ASPCA]] in particular is vehemently opposed to what it sees as exploitation of the dogs, despite the fact that they are fed well and kept on short chains while kenneled. | ||
Revision as of 08:13, March 13, 2007
The Iditarod is a race in northern Alaska held every year in winter, when there is snow on the ground for sledding. In the Iditarod, everyone gets on their sleds, which are then propelled by dogs on a track between Anchorage and Nome. The race can be grueling; sometimes it takes as many as eight or nine days to complete the course. The dogs frequently have to stop to drink, since hypothermia is a great danger during the cold Alaskan winters.
The first racer to cross the finish line in Nome receives a green lantern as a ceremonial prize, and the last racer receives a red lantern.
Race relations in the United States have been poor; the ASPCA in particular is vehemently opposed to what it sees as exploitation of the dogs, despite the fact that they are fed well and kept on short chains while kenneled.