Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Discovery Channel Brings The Iditarod Home


A week from today, on October 14th, the Discovery Channel will air the first episode it's new series Iditarod which will take an inside look at the iconic Alaskan sled dog race as it's never been seen before.

Billed as "the last great race", the Iditarod is run each year from Anchorage to Nome through some of the most remote backcountry in a state that is mostly made up of backcountry. The trail itself, which has two variations, is over 1000 miles in length, and tests the skill and strength of both the men and the dogs who challenge it.

The show will follow the 2008 Iditarod, which took place last March, and saw 96 teams set out from Anchorage. Discovery hopes to give us an inside look at the men and women who compete in the event, as well as the strategies and training sessions of the top racers.

Over at the show's official site, you'll find information about the top mushers, including Lance Mackey, Jeff King, and DeeDee Jonrowe. You'll also find more information about the trail itself, with some history of the event and the places along the route. If that isn't enough, check out the Iditarod Quiz and a great feature on these very special dogs.

I've already got the DVR set for this one. I'm not sure how they can top the coverage provided by Versus last Spring, which was excellent and very timely, airing just a few weeks after the race. But this is Discovery we're talking about here, so I have not doubt that it'll be very well done. By the way, the Discovery website got a makeover it seems and it was long overdue in my book. It's easier to navigate now and loads a bit quicker too.

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