Springfield cyclists rides Itidarod

"I reached a point where I just wasn't active," said Benetti, 29. "I'd go to work, go home, sit and eat."

At 230 pounds, the Springfield plumber knew he had to find a healthier outlet.

He turned to mountain biking - in a big way.

Two years later and now 60 pounds lighter, Benetti today is flying to Alaska, where he'll compete in one of the toughest bicycle competitions on earth. . . .

Alaskans Kathi and Bill Merchant organize the annual Iditarod Trail Invitational, which includes 350-mile and 1,150-mile races for hikers, skiers and bicyclists.

Of the 50 people who applied this year, only 36 were invited to participate.

Benetti is the only competitor from Missouri.