Now We are Six: Mush!

I thought you might like to see what Noah wore to celebrate the day.

Celebrate what, you ask. Why, the Ceremonial Start of the Iditarod, of course. Tomorrow is the official start of the race in Willow, AK. (After this year's political scene, we all know of Willow, right?) We've enjoyed getting to know the race and the men and women who participate. They race over 1150 miles of varying terrain to Nome, battling the elements and severe sleep deprivation for as little as 9 and as many as 20 days. A majority of them race, not to win, but to test their personal limits--much like Jason in his running. None of them do it for fame or fortune--there's very little to be had.

In reality, the real athletes are the dogs. Like racehorses, these dogs live to run. But, unlike horseracing, these mushers have nothing to gain from exploiting their dogs. They depend on the dogs for their very survival out on the trail and care deeply about the dogs' health. There is truly a unique bond between a musher and his dogs that is evident in their interactions together.

This year, I'm following Laura Daugereau and Jeff King. Jeff is a 4-time champion of the Iditarod and came in second last year. I'm rooting for him to win this year. Abby is following DeeDee Jonrowe. It's easy to pick DeeDee and her team out in a crowd--they're the ones dressed in pink. Ellie is following Melissa Owens who is a Nome native and also participates in gymnastics. We have our map up, and we're ready for the race! Mush!