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The front runners have left Ambler and the mood is still energetic and fun. People in Ambler know that they'll have another view of the teams as they make the winter trail to Selawik. Pots and pans filled with hot foods are still being pulled out of the local ovens and brought over to the Ambler check point, potluck style. Three Kobuk 440 rookies, Noah Burmeister, Robert Nelson, and Karlin Itchoak were all smiles and sharing stories about their experiences along the trail while they ate.

A pack of wolves were sighted by Burmeister about an hour outside of Kiana. His dogs sensed the presence before he became aware of the multiple eyes in the dark night. He told his spooky story to a captive audience. Raised in Nome, Noah currently lives in Nenana, and is running a team from brother, Aaron Burmesiter's kennel. He has a fun, easy-going, nature, and people are drawn in to his stories about the dogs and the trail.

Nelson was excited about the way his dogs performed.  It was obvious that he was having fun. His father, Louis Nelson, Sr., is also in the race but the two haven't spent any time together on the trail. They'll most likely see one another - heading in opposite directions - when Robert is heading to Kobuk, Louie will be on his way back to Ambler. Robert is on vacation - he works at the Red Dog Mine, and has taken this time off for the race. He said, "I'm having so much fun. The trail is great. The people in the race and in the communities are amazing. I have to keep reminding myself that this is a race."

Ikchoak described camping with his dogs in the warm sunshine. He entered the race with the smallest team. While the others had the limit of 12 dogs he entered with his entire kennel of 9. Quiet and confident, Karlin lives and works in Nome and has watched the Iditarod finish in Nome since he was a child. He has been building a kennel while pursuing a career in law. He seemed in awe of the beauty of the countryside and great trail conditions.

Each one has been familiar with the Kobuk 440 for many years. Now that they are finally running the race themselves, they are throughly enjoying it. As you watch and listen to all three, life is truly wonderful and they are experiencing new adventures. For this, they all expressed genuine appreciation to the race organizers and volunteers. All those gathered iat the checkpoint enjoyed their stories and many offer encouraging words and support. The race is not quite half-way yet but it will be fun to continue following their progress.

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