Hot on the heels of Saturday’s start of the Yukon Quest, the gruelling Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra race kicked off on Sunday.

Participants have a choice of walking, mountain biking or skiing.

Race organizer Robert Pollhammer said on social media last week the event was facing some of the same challenges the Quest has – but conditions were better-suited to his racers.

“The last few days have been ‘interesting.’ After a much-needed first cold spell, the temperatures in Whitehorse warmed right up again,” Pollhammer said.

“Instead of snow, we have been faced with rain, a lot of rain …. Consequently, significant sections with overflow have formed on the Yukon and Takhini River.

“Now, with temperatures getting colder again, there is a lot of ice, also in Shipyards Park, which is were we normally start the race,” Pollhammer said.

“For the Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra, things are different. Our athletes can move over solid ice in a safe way by putting traction products on their shoes – like Kahtoola MICROspikes or EXOspikes.

“Skiers may have to take off their skis and have traction for their boots. Bikers may have tires with spikes but in addition should have traction for their footwear, too,” Pollhammer cautioned.

The biggest danger, he explained, might be for the spectators who turned out for Sunday’s start.

“Obviously, any visitors who want to see us start at Shipyard’s Park face the same problem, but if you do join us, use traction on your footwear! Otherwise you risk falling and seriously injuring yourself!”

Last year, the Yukon’s Jessie Gladish dominated the race. She is not competing this year, so the field is wide open for anyone to win.

The Ultra will follow the Yukon Quest trail again this year.

The marathon was set to finish at Muktuk Adventures just off the Takhini River. The 100-mile racers are going from Whitehorse to Braeburn.

The 300-mile racers go all the way to Pelly Farm. There, they leave the river to turn around and go back to Pelly Crossing on the farm road.

“The trail will be marked,” Pollhammer said.

“However, if there is fresh snow or a lot of wind, it will be difficult to find the trail. If you want to enhance your ability to understand your orientation, we recommend you use a GPS.”

You may choose your mode of discipline, which can be either mountain bike, xc-skis or foot.

The race is open for men, women and teams of two or more athletes.