Dr. Mark Hines: Long Distance Solo in Extreme Cold
Dr. Mark Hines is a highly respected arctic ultra-marathon runner, writer and physiologist. His academic research into physiology in extreme environments underpins his unique approach to efficient long distance travel on foot.
The 1000-mile (1600-km) Iditarod Trail Invitational held in March each year is one of the toughest extreme cold races in the world. Because the trail is mainly beneath fresh snow, the going can be incredibly demanding and it’s easy to get lost in deep snowdrifts and soft powder. In some areas wind speeds can be over 100 mph, with relative temperatures below -100F (-75oC). On the sea ice over Norton Sound on the Bering Sea, open water becomes a real hazard because there is a real risk of falling in. Mark has completed race on foot together with 7 other foot racers, plus 17 cyclists, on the route from Anchorage to Nome.
Mark uses uses the reliable and well tested KOVEA Booster+1 expedition stove for snow melting in the most extreme temperatures. He also uses a KOVEA Spider for melting and water boiling in cold (-20oC) but less challenging conditions.