The 135-mile race begins in International Falls on Monday. This is despite fears that there will not be enough snow due to the unseasonably warm weather.
Race director Ken Krueger said there was less snow, but it was enough. The only thing that would cancel Arrowhead 135 is if a serious snowstorm prevented rescue vehicles. The race has only been stopped once due to the coronavirus. But even the polar vortex in 2019 didn't stop that.
However, Krueger said it will likely be a historically tough race. Rougher tracks mean crashes are more likely. Warm weather brings the risk of trench foot.
“I would advise people to slow down and make good choices,” Krueger said. “Most people are here for the endurance challenge, you're racing yourself. There are a few people who come to win, but I advise them to slow down, wear their safety gear, and take care of each other.
Competitors have 60 hours to reach the finish line by bike, foot or ski. Typically, about 57 percent of people make it to the end.
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