Iditarod Fast Facts

Photos: Iditarod race
The Iditarod: This famous dogsled race is named after the Iditarod Trail, an old mail and supply route traveled by dogsleds from Seward and Knik to Nome, Alaska.
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Photos: Iditarod race
Nearly 1000 miles: The race can be up to 998 miles long, depending on whether the southern or northern route is being run.
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An Alaskan tradition: The Iditarod has been an annual sporting event since 1973, bringing hundreds of spectators and mushers (competitors) from across the world.
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Alaskan Husky: The most popular breed of dog for the race is the Alaskan Husky, according to National Geographic.
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Teams of dogs: There are 12 to 16 dogs on each team. At least five dogs must be in harness pulling the sled at the finish line.
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Health check: Veterinarians check over dogs at the Puntilla Lake checkpoint during the 2019 race.
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Iditarod – Bundle up: Iditarod spectators must brave Alaskan weather to get a glimpse of their favorite teams.
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End of the line: The town of Nome is the end of the trail, where the famous Iditarod "burled arch" forms the finish line.
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