Yukon Arctic Ultra athlete likely to lose toes to frostbite
Digital Reporter
Monday, February 19, 2018, 4:44 PM - It's been dubbed the coldest and toughest ultra race in the world.
With temperatures in the minus 40s recorded in Northern Canada, two athletes who competed in the Yukon Arctic Ultra 2018 are facing amputation due to frostbite.
WARNING: This article contains a graphic image below.
It's likely that competitor Nick Griffiths of England will lose his two middle toes and part of his big toe, according to CBC.
The Yukon Arctic Ultra took place between Feb. 1-9. Racers followed the Yukon Quest trail and finished at Muktuk Adventures just off the Takhini River. Athletes were given the option of participating in a 160 or 480 km race. They were able to travel by mountain bike, cross-country skis or by foot.
Griffiths was taken to Whitehorse General Hospital after travelling about 75 km, CBC reports.
RELATED: Nunavut man recovering after losing hands to frostbite
"I wasn't particularly concerned, I thought I would be OK," Griffiths told CBC.
Temperatures hovered around the minus 40s during the race, without factoring in any wind chill. It wasn't until Griffith's feet turned purple that he started to realize the severity of the situation, the news agency reports.
Griffiths was treated with a drug called IIoprost, which is used when blood vessels are constricted and blood cannot flow to tissue.
The racer returned to England, where he is currently staying at a hospital burn centre, according to CBC.
"Out on the trail you are responsible for yourself," he told the news agency. "Even though I'm probably going to lose three toes... I would say it was a well organized, and professional run event."
Italian athlete Roberto Zanda is also recovering in hospital after severe frostbite developed on his hands and feet. CBC reports he had to be rescued via helicopter midway after suffering from hypothermia.
What is frostbite?
Frostbite is a serious condition that causes both the skin and underlying tissue (fat, muscle, bone) to freeze following prolonged exposure to the cold. The skin will become white and waxy in appearance and feel hard to the touch. There is no feeling in the affected area.
Treating frostbite
If you have developed, or think you have developed, frostbite, seek immediate medical attention.
Do NOT rub or massage the affected area.
Wait to warm the affected area until you are certain that it will stay warm, and not get cold again.
Slowly warm the area - use body heat or warm water (40 to 42ºC).
Avoid direct heat because it can burn the skin.
SOURCE: CBC
