Iditarod
to Download a VIDEO CLIP on the Iditarod. (3.21MB AVI)The length of the Iditarod Trail was started and organized by Joe Redington, Sr. and historian Dorothy Page. The Iditarod was run in 1967 and covered only 56 miles at the time. In 1973, the length of the race was extended to 1,100 miles (being the 1st ever 1,100-mile sled dog race in the world)
The first Iditarod race was held in Anchorage on March 3, 1973, and ended April 3 in Nome. There were 34 people who started that race but only 22 ended up crossing the "Finish" line.
The Iditarod has been run every year since its inception. In 1976, Congress declared the
Iditarod a National Historic Trail. Since the organization of the Iditarod, it has been a very
popular event in the State of Alaska and is becoming increasingly popular throughout the country.
Much preparation and extreme work goes into this event. Often competitors begin to train their dogs early in the spring, building their sleds, and getting in shape for the coming winter event. Training the dogs is a very long and frustrating process. It begins by choosing the strongest and healthiest dogs. The choosing of dogs is probably the most crucial part of this event. These dogs must endure some of the harshest territory while giving the most energy they have.
The building and construction of the sleds is another very crucial part of the race. It is important that each sled is as light and sturdy as possible to better slide along the snow and ice. Throughout the race, the sled often goes through very high abuse demanding the best construction possible. It is also very important for the participant himself or herself to maintain good health and stamina as he or she prepares for this long 1,100 mile race. In doing so, they are able to endure the extreme weather, harsh terrain and great physical demands placed on them during the race.
For a number of years this grueling race was won by a woman. Thus, there is a well known saying among Alaskans - "Alaska is where men are men, and women win the Iditarod".
Video Clip bAlaska Video Postcards
Photo by: AK Division of Tourism
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