Rowing to Nome

Don't have the dogs to race to Nome in a sled? Don't worry, there's a better way. The 2011 Iditarow will soon be underway at Resurrection Bodyworks in Seward. Participants will row on an indoor rowing machine (erg) in an attempt to cover the 1,131 miles across the Iditarod Trail to Nome before the winning Iditarod dog team crosses the finish line. Registration is currently open for teams and team members. Cost is $25 per member before Feb. 26, and $35 after. The big event begins at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 6, at the Rez, and ends when the first team of humans or dogs hits the finish line. Rules are brief: Each team member is allowed to row up to 30 minutes per day; each rower must take two mandatory days of rest; you don't need to be a member of the Rez gym; and you don't need rowing experience. Team and individual accomplishments are celebrated with awards going to everything from sweatiest to best socks to most improved rower. Contact iditarow@gmail.com for more information. The event is a fundraiser for the Kenai Crewsers Rowing Club.