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According to a report by Alaska Public Radio, the Alaska Iditarod is in full force, and as of March 14, 2011, is on day nine. Regardless of the outcome of the race, some believe that 2011 will shape up to be the year of the GPS at the Iditarod. 2011 is the first year that GPS tracking devices are allowed during the race. In the past, racers had to ascertain their trails and stay on track.

A big part of the race, some believe, was staying on course without the aid of modern technology.

With the introduction of GPS tracking devices, however, some believe that Iditarod racers who use these devices are cheating – or, at the very least, receiving unfair aid.

When officials made the change to allow GPS tracking devices at the Iditarod, they cited safety issues.

A bigger divide in opinion than the fairness of GPS tracking devices at the Iditarod, though, is the debate about the efficacy of such devices during the rate. Some racers, such as Lance Lackey, aren’t convinced of their usefulness, claiming that such devices are mere distractions. Still others say that those who use GPS tracking devices during the Alaska Iditarod race are more likely to be disqualified than to receive an unfair advantage.

Another perspective on the GPS tracking devices is that making them legal levels the playing field in a more fair and just manner. In the past, people have speculated that racers were using GPS devices to cheat. Now that it is legal, everyone can use them
without resorting to the practice in an under-the-table manner.

Article Written by Greg Minton