Yuka Honda, representing Japan, arrived 7th, earlier this afternoon. Here are a few photos of her and her team:

It is a mild -8C this afternoon and the snow is quickly accumulating.

Seth Barnes arrived shortly after in 8th place:

My camera was quickly losing its ability to focus on its long shots as the snowflakes got even larger and the sky darkened.

Here’s a shot from inside the checkpoint:

Soon enough, Mike Ellis arrived in 9th place (so far). I switched to iPhone photography. Here’s a video of his team’s arrival:

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Here the checkpoint volunteers are checking the sled for the mandatory equipment. Jeff and I will be doing this tonight on our overnight shift. We’ll also let the first 5 teams go back on the trail after their mandatory 36 hour rest, on their way to the finish line in Whitehorse!