Iditarod 2013

Picture from the Anchorage Daily News of a Musher Handler

Last Saturday, John and I went downtown to see the Ceremonial Start of the 2013 Iditarod.  Wandering around, we happened upon a Kindergarten teacher from my school-- Bryan Bearss.  Bryan ran the Iditarod several years ago and dog mushing is his passion.  Bryan was there assisting his friend--Bob Bundtzen-- who was running the Iditarod for the 14th time. 

With Robert Bundtzen

We asked Bryan if we could come into the fenced area to take some pictures of the dogs and visit.  After chatting for awhile and taking lots of pictures, I went over to Bob to explain who I was, to thank him for letting us photograph the dogs, and to wish him luck.  He asked if I'd like to borrow their extra "Handler" badge, which allows you access within the entire fenced area. I was thrilled!!  Of course, I wanted to use the badge.  Worried that John would be shooed out, they found an extra band for John too.  Yay!

We explored a few blocks of other dog teams and mushers preparing.  As we came back, Bryan asked if we'd like to help "walk" the team to the start.  We were thrilled and honored. 

At the Starting Line

I should have realized the strenuousness of the task after 2 people advised us of what to do if we fell.  At any rate, the dogs LOVE to run and pull.  So, the task of getting them to the starting line really involves pulling back as hard as you can on a leash connected to the tow rope (I'm sure it has a different name, but I don't know what!) as you lean back (like you're water skiing) and attempt to jog through mushy snow (imagine a foot of fine, dry sand).  (I've attached a picture from our local newspaper too-- This captures the task of a handler pretty well!)  It was very difficult, but an absolutely AMAZING experience.  We were so happy to be a part of it.  Here are some pictures from the morning and a video of a video of Robert Bundtzen's Ceremonial Start.

Thanks for sharing this journey!