2015 Iditarod Race By Kelly Q.

Introduction The Iditarod all started with a horrible sickness in Nome Alaska. The sickness was called diphtheria. Many people died. So 20 dog sled teams did a relay race to get the medicine and save them and to made an amazing tradition called the Iditarod.

Routes and Checkpoints The route usually starts at Anchorage but this year they start in Fairbanks because there was not enough snow, but it still ends at Nome. There are 2000 miles in the Iditarod race, and there are 23 checkpoints in all. There are 19 checkpoints. But this year there are only 17 checkpoints.

Musher My musher’s name is Ally Zirkle Bib number is 32. She is 45 and was born in New Hampshire. She spent her childhood in New Hampshire, Puerto Rico, and Missouri.

Dogs The dogs wore harnesses and booties to keep them from getting ice and other sharp things in there feet. They use Alaskan Huskies and Indian dogs. They start with no more than 16 dogs.

Awards The Award for the 1st place is 50,000 dollars because of there hard work they put into the race. But the last place musher gets a red lantern for not giving up in the race. Pen Air Spirit of Alaska award presented to the the first musher to reach McGrath.

Webliography Iditarod.com