2009 Urban Iditarod

Matt Fischer, left, enjoys the ride as Ryan Hansen pushes his shopping cart “sled” during the Third Annual Los Angeles Urban Iditarod in Venice.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Team Color Me Rad runs down Pacific Avenue.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Even E.T. beamed down for the Urban Iditarod, serving as mascot for a team called The Elliotts.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Arrrrrgh! Pirates invade Ocean Front Walkway as part of the Urban Iditarod.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

The concept of the Urban Iditarod: decorate a shopping-cart “sled,” form a team of fearless sled runners and dogs (all humans, of course), and come up with a creative costuming theme. And, of course, bring a beverage.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Members of Team Nascar practice one of the Urban Iditarod’s most critical skills: running without spilling your drink.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

A costumed woman improvises her way across a puddle during the L.A. Urban Iditarod.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

A team called The Boston Terriers runs down Washington Boulevard.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Luckily, rider Matt Fischer didn’t have to do any mushing.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Urban Iditarod participants take a break and acknowledge the crowd in Venice.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Scott Wilson enjoys a beverage while participating in the Urban Iditarod.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

As if there wasn’t enough celebrating during the race itself, participants celebrate at the finish line of the Third Annual Los Angeles Urban Iditarod in Venice.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)