A profile of women participants in five long distance winter sporting events

Women have been entering long distance winter sports in increasing numbers in Alaska and other states and countries. Much publicity has been given to the success of some. The 1,100 mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race across Alaska has been won by a woman every year since 1985. The Minnesota Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon 500 mile race was won by a woman in 1988. But what of the experience of the average female entrant? This investigation sought to examine the circumstances of each of the women who competed in the Iditarod, Iditaski, Iditabike, Yukon Quest and Beargrease Marathon. Since December 1987, 79 questionnaires were mailed to all of the women participants (past and present) of these events and as of July 1988 the response rate was 58%. Examination of the findings in the areas of age ranges; training/competition miles; types, rates, self-treatment of injuries and protection from cold are reported.