MINNEAPOLIS — The 52nd edition of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog race is set to commence this Saturday in Anchorage, Alaska.
For the first time, two native mushers from Minnesota are stepping up to compete in the renowned 1,000-mile race, facing the challenges of Alaska’s formidable wilderness.
Anna Hennessy, a musher and Red Wing Native, expressed her deep connection to the sport, stating, “As soon as I ran my first race in Minnesota I was hooked.” Erin Altemus, another musher and the owner of Saw Tooth Racing in Grand Marais, highlighted the unpredictable adventures the dogs lead you on, emphasizing the necessity of knowing how to handle them.
Hennessy and Altemus are part of a group of 39 mushers who will navigate rough yet awe-inspiring terrain over approximately 10 days.
Hennessy’s journey to the Iditarod was shaped by her time with Altemus and her husband at their kennel in Grand Marais. “Working with them is what got me into racing, and I completely fell in love with the sport,” shared Hennessy.
Having moved to Alaska to pursue her racing dream, Hennessy found the perfect timing to team up with Altemus after qualifying for the Iditarod. “I just signed up. I could do it with a friend. I thought that seemed more feasible, more fun,” said Altemus.
Despite daunting challenges like blizzards, potential encounters with moose, and sleep deprivation, the mushers emphasized the dogs’ love for running. “They live to run, truly. They love it,” Hennessy noted.
Altemus and her dogs have been in Alaska since January, adjusting their plans after the cancellation of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.
As the Iditarod approaches, the mushers look forward to the unique experience of traveling across Alaska with their dogs. After the race, their post-event plans involve ensuring the dogs are cared for and indulging in some well-deserved rest.
The ceremonial start of the Iditarod is scheduled for Saturday, March 2, in Anchorage, followed by the official start a day later in the village of Willow.
