Brent arriving at Carmacks.
Brent arrived in Carmacks last night at 21:30, and he stayed at the checkpoint until departing at 3:30 this morning. Unfortunately, lead dog Silver was dropped last night after a fluke shoulder injury just before reaching Braeburn. Brent described the loss as an “emotional blow,” but was in good spirits and emphasized the strength and experience of the 13 remaining dogs. Ling-Ling – “Silver’s prodigy” – and Madonna now lead the team.
Two miles out of Braeburn, Brent encountered Yuka Honda on the trail, her dog team nowhere in sight. Brent put her on his sled and went full speed for 10 miles, until they caught Honda’s loose team on a frozen lake. Unfortunately, Honda’s team had an expired dog, so Brent stayed with her for half-an-hour until he flagged us down as we flew over in the plane. We landed on the lake next to the teams, and Brent explained the situation to us before continuing down the trail. It was traumatic for Honda, but she maintained her composure, made it into Carmacks last night, and is currently on the trail to Pelly Crossing.
Brent and a passing musher continuing down the trail after the incident with Honda.
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Dog team on the Chain of Lakes.
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Dog cooker and resting team.
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Brent single-poling.
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Two teams resting.
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