boo wrote:So glad to have you join us, Paul and Evy.....I also read all of Evy's postings and love your website. (By the way, Paul, it is me, Becki, Rachael's handler....do you recall asking me coming off the Chinook trail (I think that was the name), Rach helping get your team of 22 I think around the corner, then seeing me and asking wide-eyed, "Do you still have your teeth?")
This is Paul and yes - I vividly remember meeting you around that corner. By the way the TREE IS GONE! I removed it after your accident.
boo wrote:Anyhoo, first my condolences on your loss of Governor. So sad to see such a great friend pass so suddenly. So, I guess my questions would be:
"Who stepped up as leaders? I know it is impossible to compare and replace a leader of Governor's caliber, but who shows that potential?"
Obviously Houston and Bear where my mainstays as leaders. And surprisingly, a four year old named Thor - who is Red Dog's son, led me with Houston about half of the race and he led with Houston into NOme. That really suprised me.
Another pleasant surpise was Leutenant, Governor's son. He is actually 18 months old and he finished with me in Nome. And he IS potentially the dog to replace Governor's ability, I just did not lead him much in this year's race because of his age. But he shows all the potential of a great leader.
boo wrote:What one (or more) dog(s) on the team surprised you during the race and how?"
I think I got that one above.
boo wrote:"Did you wear a helmet again this year....and if so, what sections?"
No - it wasn't windy or cold. Frankly as much as I hate to say it, I kind of wish it would have been windy or cold. But I did have the helmet with me.
boo wrote:"Did your fitness level this year 'feel' different during the race?" (esp. issues of sleep deprivation, rebound, etc.)
I felt about the same. I'm not retired yet! It was nice not to be so sick this year though. Paul