Ceremonial Iditarod Start 2011

Prezwoodz

For the first time I actually know someone who is running in the Iditarod so I decided to go to the ceremonial start. I didn't plan ahead so I didn't get to go inside the fence but I still think I got a few decent ones! Next time I was told I would get a pass to go inside the fence.

Dr. Robert Bundtzen, who is currently in 4th at the time of this post!


Not sure if I like color or BW better...I like both.


Getting the dogs ready


Sometimes they didn't want to come out


Mushers were all around pleasing the crowd since that what this day is all about.


The dogs, Robert told me their names but I forgot most!:











Robert and Zac from Sheep Mountain Lodge




Dog Butts


Wearing booties



I found the Iditarod to be very colorful!





It was a beautiful day with the sun shining.



The Iditarider, she got to ride in the sled as Robert rode through the start.








A little relaxation before the start





The dogs know how to pose for photos too!



Then it was time to go!


Seya in Nome!



Here is a short movie I made of them getting prepared and getting the dogs ready. (4min 30 sec)

denisegoldberg

Thanks for these!

The Iditarod has always fasincated me. I have a great deal of respect for both the dogs and for the humans who participate. Loved seeing your shots...

--- Denise

kdog

I too have always been fascinated by the Iditarod and really enjoy seeing this coverage. (The book Winterdance is an excellent read, btw).

The dogs don't look as big as I would have envisioned. These guys look small and lean. Maybe that makes them more efficient. I'd like to see more pics of the dogs shot at their level.

Regards,
-joel

Hikin' Mike

I remember seeing a T-shirt while I was living in King Salmon AK, "Where men are men and the women win the Iditarod!"...or something like that.

NorthernFocus

Having a tendency to avoid crowds, we haven't gone down there for the start yet. We did go to the start of the Quest the first or second winter after we moved to Fairbanks. I'm always amazed at how muttly the sled dogs look. You did a nice job of capturing the pre-race behind the scenes activity. Thanks for posting.