Passion!

That's all I could think of while watching the 86th Laconia World Championship Sled Dog Derby today! 
Whipping winds, freezing temperatures and lots of snow, was the setting for this year's race.  I was standing there for a short time, trying to get  a few photos, and my face was hurting from the wind and cold. 
I couldn't believe the passion and drive from the mushers who participated. This event was the 3 dog, youth event, which was about 6 miles long. Another event was 15 miles, usually with adults, and up to 16 dogs!
Some years, there wasn't enough snow, or it was too warm.  But, I guess, this year's 3 day event had everything they needed.
I felt like I was watching this in Alaska! :)