Iditarod 2012. 1,100 Mile Dogsled Race Across Alaskan Wilderness
The Iditarod dogsled race from Anchorage to Nome is an endurance race for highly trained athletes, both human and canine. It covers 1,100 miles of Alaskan wilderness and pits the racers against nature and competitors. In modern times the dogs are mostly Huskies and are groomed and trained to Olympic level. They run approximately 120 miles per day, and consume over 10,000 calories.
The race commemorates the Serum Run in 1925 which brought Diptheria Serum through the icy wilderness to Nome, a remote outpost. The Iditarod Race became official in 1973.
Dogsled travel is an Alaskan tradition and the Iditarod highlights totally amazing dogs and skilled mushers. Wolf's Den Kennels in Anchorage has a terrific blog that gives an intimate view of the dogs and a window into the sport. See pictures of dogs like Nistor, Iowa, Zazu, Patton, Fossil, Ozzy, Clifford, Bruiser, Fang, Hawkeye and more. These dog portraits are just great!
Good luck to the racers. And if you love the Iditarod like I do, please leave your comments.
