While winter has basically been a no show in Minnesota this year, there are places where hearty Minnesotans are currently braving the elements. We Do This For Fun holds one of those people dear to our hearts- Leah Gruhn.

For the second year in a row Leah’s racing the ITI1000 Iditarod Trail Invitational, a grueling 1000 mile race. While we didn’t get a chance to chat with her before she began, we’ve been following her little dot on Trackleaders.

From the race organizers:

“Only the most experienced, rugged and intrepid competitors dare to attempt the ITI 1000, the world's longest and toughest winter race.”

As we think about Leah we wanted to revisit a podcast recorded last year with Leah and her husband Jere. 

Visit wedothisforfun.com to follow Leah’s progress in real time as she nears the end of this demanding race.

@leahgruhn, @itialaska -1000 miles by bike during the unforgiving Alaskan winter.

Ultra-endurance athlete Kate Coward (1st Female Bike, 2023 Arrowhead 135!) sends a vocal love letter to fellow cyclist, Leah Gruhn, who embarks on the Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI) 1000 on February 26, 2023. Kate’s big love, respect and admiration shows us what women uplifting women looks like.

Follow Kate kate_coward_athlete and Leah leahgruhn.

Races mentioned:

Winter ultras: Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI) 1000 (@itialaska) , Arrowhead 135 and Tuscobia Winter Ultra

Other ultra-bike races: DAMn and UNBOUND Gravel

Back at our favorite spot, the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park we catch up with Executive Director of the Loppet Foundation, Claire Wilson. Updates from the foundation including an invitation to visit the Trailhead for tubing, cross country skiing and fat biking or to sip a hot beverage and play indoor games. But what you’re really looking for are the tips and tricks for experiencing the Luminary Loppet and City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival. Skijoring, Kubb, nordic ski races and a lake of luminaries all in the heart of Minneapolis. Find your snow pants- you’ve got Minnesota winter events to attend!