The departure from White Mountain is a ritual, particularly for the top twenty mushers who are in the money. About two hours before the official departure time, the mushers go to their dogs and set to work on the last business of the race.
All unnecessary gear is stowed in gear bags to be mailed back home.
In go frozen gloves, used booties, extra batteries, and unnecessary gear. The sled bag is detached and shaken to dislodge pounds of frozen snow. Plastic on the runners is changed. In short, the sled is made ready for the final push. The veterinarians thoroughly check the dogs.