Unfortunately, this year's journey on the Iditarod Trail has come to an end for both Jill and Geoff. From the race update:
There have been some scratches in Yentna... Geoff Roes also had knee issues. Jill Homer stepped into some overflow last night and as some frostbite on her toes. As far as I know it is minor, but not continuing on is a good decision to prevent further damage to the toes. Three of them flew out to Willow and Geoff and Jill are staying with friends in Palmer.
I know something of the disappointment of dropping out early in events like this, having done it myself. It's a tough place to be in, to say the least. But it's also the nature of these events -- everything needs to go right, otherwise it's better to live to race another day rather than push on and risk your health. It sounds like both of them made wise decisions. I'm sure they will indeed be back to race again another day.
Thanks for following along with these posts. I'll continue to host the SPOT leaderboard / map (http://topofusion.com/spot.php) with Billy's progress. Starting tomorrow it will also show Mike Curiak's SPOT position. Mike is attempting to cycle the 1100 miles to Nome, 100% self supported and without even so much as stepping inside a building the entire time. I'll be following him by SPOT and posting updates, starting tomorrow, at: lacemine29.blogspot.com.
For now I wish Jill and Geoff speedy recoveries. Thanks for inspiring us all.
-Scott Morris of topofusion.com
All the best wishes in your recovery and I can only begin to imagine your disappointment in not finishing.
ReplyDeleteYour preparation and blog have been a daily read here in NY - keep on fighting for tomorrow.
Speedy recoveries to both of you.
ReplyDeleteThat's to bad :-(
ReplyDeleteIt must be quite a disappointment - but as you say, it seems like a good decision.
Wishing them both a speedy recovery.
Glad to see that you decided to stop now so you could ride again later.
ReplyDeleteI can only imagine how how hard the decision was. I can only hope that it was truly easy.
To a good recovery, great tales, end excellent trails to come.
Oh no! hope those toes are ok! Great job to the two of you! Your my hero but im glad i have been following Up In Alaska for so long from balmy Denver!
ReplyDeleteOh crap!!! All i know is that Jill is super courageous. U have inspired me greatly.
ReplyDeleteJack
http://adventuresinvoluntarysimplicity.blogspot.com/
I hope you both get better soon! Congrats to you both for attempting the extremely difficult!
ReplyDeleteYup, you are going to need toes and knees for the GDR; good move dudes, carry on....
ReplyDeleteThat's amazing. The ability to recognize that you need to pull out is something that is almost impossible for me.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like absolutely the right decision and I'm in awe of people who have the internal fortitude to make it.
You have my condolences and utmost respect. I didn't think it was possible to be more impressed, but I am.
-Jot
Sad for your race to end this way but glad that you decided in favor of your health and safety. Knowing when to pull the plug is a skill most of us are weak in so thanks for showing us your strength.
ReplyDeleteWoe, anyone not familiar with overflow on rivers at extremely cold temperatures should read Jack London's "To Build A Fire".
ReplyDeleteWe love you Jill and are praying for your speedy and full recovery!
ReplyDeleteThis is so sad. I wish a speedy recovery for both of you.
ReplyDeletecan imagine it was a tough decision but well made. hope you're both back in the saddle soon-i live vicariously through your adventures ;)
ReplyDeleteBummer. I was thinking of you daily, rooting for both of you.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for you guys to try again next year. Speedy recovery, and here's to all the future Itidarod trails races you are going to complete!
Jill mind I hope you recover soon, and bring your challenge in the next edition.
ReplyDeleteDang it, I was so amped for you two this year, but safety first, you want to be able to keep doing these crazy races for a long time.
ReplyDeleteArmchair Seattle Fan
Can't imagine what you 2 are going through...I'm sure it's tough. Both of you are still super-heroes in my book!
ReplyDeleteHave a speedy recovery. You made the correct choice in a hard situation.
ReplyDeleteGet betterer sooner. You guys did the right thing,take care of the injuries now so you can race (and play) again.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry. I feel really bad for you guys.
ReplyDeleteI'm in Florida. I don't get this "overflow" thing. Icy water in the boots I understand, but what was the issue here?
ReplyDeletehttp://redoubtreporter.blogspot.com/2009/01/cool-effects-river-ice-forms-wherever.html
ReplyDeletehttp://dwb.adn.com/sports/snowmachining/story/9494039p-9404868c.html
ReplyDeleteThat’s got to really suck!
ReplyDeleteHeal fast
Johnny
Well guys-this is a great birthday present!
ReplyDeleteYou chose to live to race another day. Thanks and love to you both......
ps-speedy recoveries
Tough break -- but wise choice.
ReplyDeleteRemember, life is about the journey.
Spin On
My bad days usually come to a choice of finishing vs an injury that would leave me at half capacity for the rest of the year. I'm not sure I've been in a situation where I might lose toes or worse...
ReplyDeleteYou guys are so tough, it's all the more impressive that you know when to bail. I hope it's not severe & you have a speedy recovery. Best of luck!