Alaska’s Warm Temps Provide the Iditarod Race an Extra Hurdle

Right around this time of year I am both relieved and homesick that I no longer live in Alaska. I do not miss the long Alaskan winters one bit, but I dearly miss the pride, the people and the scenery that puts a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye at the mere thought of my adopted homeland.

And then there is the Iditarod, the historic 1,000 mile sled dog race from Willow, Alaska to Nome, Alaska.

Cheechakos and sourdoughs alike gather to rejoice in this uniquely Alaskan tradition that really can't be explained but rather seen to believe.

What is interesting is that Alaska has actually been warmer this winter than many places in the lower 48 including Florida and Georgia. This caused the organizers of the Iditarod's ceremonial start in Anchorage to truck in snow, and I mean a lot of snow to host the event.

This past Saturday was the ceremonial start in Anchorage with the actual start the following day in Willow.

Last year's Iditarod winner Mitch Seavey is featured in this sled-cam at Saturday's ceremonial start in downtown Anchorage. This video alone made me homesick like you would believe. Tito, tissue please.