Minnesota's winter 135 mile underway.

[thom]

Exciting & crazy, the Arrowhead 135 started yesterday in International Falls, MN in temps colder than -20. Ever since I heard about this race, I decided it was pure nuts.

My father-in-law has a "fat bike" for snow, so he's been following it as well. (You can run, bike, or ski the 135 mile course.)

Anyway, I stand in awe of these people, but I could never handle that many hours in the cold. Why say you, H&F?

Some local coverage:

m.startribune.com/?id=242319801

[thom]

I agree with you; it would totally not ever be an event for me. Half that distance in perfect weather probably would also never be for me.

I know they have an application to even sign up and then they do strictly check everyone's gear before they can start. They have checkpoints along the trail to make sure people are ok to continue and for things like frostbite. Still insanely intense!

[sassystace]

Sounds extreme!! I wonder how many people get frostbite and what percentage finish out of those who start.

[breezy8407]

I just can't get on board with risking frostbite and permanent damage for this.

Maybe on bike? I have been seeding more fat tire bikers than runners out on the regional trail lately.

[chw57]

I wonder if anyone does this and Badwater in the same year. Two totally crazy extremes!

[jene]

I love cold weather, but this is insane, especially with as cold as it has been here.

[runaways]

I guess this is the winter version of the Badwater ultra? I find both to be kind of insane, although I see the appeal of taking on the challenge.

[Brit]

That is an insane race. It sounds dangerous because of the cold!

Is a snow fat bike like this?

I have seen them for sand. Clearly regional marketing schemes?

[Deleted]

Oh hell no. But massive respect for those that take part.

I'm going on a fat bike tour in June in Svalbard! Can't wait to try these bikes out.

[breezy8407]

Jan 28, 2014 22:05:39 GMT -5 Brit said:

That is an insane race. It sounds dangerous because of the cold!

Is a snow fat bike like this?

I have seen them for sand. Clearly regional marketing schemes?

Yep - that's similar to what I tend to see. A little more "grip" on the treads though. Surly is the brand I see the most.

[thom]

Jan 28, 2014 22:05:39 GMT -5 Brit said:

That is an insane race. It sounds dangerous because of the cold!

Is a snow fat bike like this?

I have seen them for sand. Clearly regional marketing schemes?

Yes, but as Breezy said maybe a little different tire tread. Surly does seems to be the most popular & I think is the original "fat bike." Salsa makes several & I can't think of the other brands.

As for possibly doing Badwater & this in the same year... Yowza. It seems like it would be a whole different set of people for this winter extreme, but I could see wanting the distinction of conquering them both.

[schitzengiggles]

Crazy and awe-inspiring. Definitely not for me :-)
That race is actually up in the area I grew up...way northern Minnesota. Lots of woods, tiny towns of 200 people, middle of nowhere - and flipping COLD. International Falls is known as the "icebox of the nation".

These people are so brave and awesome and nuts. LOL