The Toughest Race on Earth
Iditarod
What is the Iditarod?
The Iditarod is a popular Alaskan dog sled race. The race starts on the first Saturday in March. The race starts in the city of Anchorage, Alaska and ends in Nome, Alaska.
About the Trail
- The trail is about 1,100 miles long which is equal to the distance from New York City to Miami
- The trail was used to deliver mail and supplies to town
- The mushers teams have to cross mountain ranges, Kuskokwim and Alaska
- The trail's route changes every other year
About the Sled Dogs
- 12 to 16 dogs pull the sled
- The dogs are usually Siberian or Alaskan Huskies
- Before each race the veterinarians check each dog for sicknesses or injuries
- You cannot add dogs to your sled during the race
- Dogs fill with excitement at the start of the race
- Sled dogs must be trained before the race to know if they can withstand the weather and other environmental conditions
Rules of the Iditarod
- At least 12 dogs have to start the race and at least 5 dogs have to finish the race
- The dogs have to wear boots from their to prevent cuts and the mushers have to bring a snow parka, snowshoes, an ax, sleeping bag, food, and dog food
- Teams have to take at least one 24 hour break or two 8 hour breaks
- No more than 16 dogs can be on your team
Fun Facts
- Iditarod means "clear water" in Indian
- The Musher that wins the race wins a new truck and $69,000
- The Iditarod is Alaska's state sport
- The Iditarod was created 1973
Work Cited
- http://www.enchantedlearning.com/usa/states/alaska/iditarod/
- "Iditarod Facts and Information for Kids | KidsKonnect." KidsKonnect. N.p., 22 Nov. 2015. Web. 04 Mar. 2015
- .Nightingale, Dave. "Iditarod." World Book Student. World Book, 2016. Web. 1 Feb. 2016.
- Rosen, Yereth. "High-Tech Mushing on the Iditarod Trail." Christian Science Monitor. 26 Mar. 1993: 14. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 01 Feb. 2016.
By: Connor Hall, Walker Milstead, and Kylie George
Period: 3/6
Thursday, February 4, 2016