Iditarod Trail Invitational 1000

The Iditarod Trail Invitational 1000 is the world's longest running winter ultra-marathon. The pinnacle of all winter ultra-marathons, the ITI 1000 takes competitors through the far reaches of the Alaskan wilderness, following the Iditarod Trail to its conclusion under the famed burled arch in Nome, Alaska. Competitors have 30 days to race 1,000 miles across some of the world's most treacherous terrain in hospitable conditions. Every year on the Iditarod Trail is different and conditions change in the blink of an eye during the journey. ITI 1000 competitors face temperatures from -50F to 35F, gale force winds, rain, blizzards, waist-deep snow, mud, glare ice and bright sunny skies - all in the same day.

Navy veteran and ultramarathon runner, Keith Eckert, has chosen to sponsor Guardian Revival for the 2021 ITI 1000 by raising money to support Guardian's mission: to ensure a safe and prosperous society by providing first responders and service members with training opportunities, resources, and equipment at no cost. Keith's goal is to raise $100 for each mile he conquers across the Alaskan wilderness, aiming to raise a total of $100,000 by time he takes his first step off the frozen starting line on February 28, 2021.   

Born and raised in Chandler, AZ, Keith grew up playing sports year-round and at an early age, discovered his passion for helping others. Keith went on to graduate from the United States Naval Academy and was a Division I collegiate wrestler before commissioning in the the U.S. Navy. After serving, Keith began competing in ultramarathons and ultra swims, completing some of the world's most challenging races, including the Old Goat 50 miler, Javelina 100 miler (2x), Cold Water 100 miler, Last Man Standing 100 miler, Bigfoot 200 miler, Moab 240 miler, and the Iditarod Trail Invitational 350 miler. Rather than just compete for personal achievement, Keith manages to also raise thousands of dollars to support causes that align with his values.