Anchorage goes to the dogs.

[Blue_In_AK]

What is known as the "ceremonial start" of the Iditarod took place yesterday here in Anchorage. This is just a little 11-mile run through town for the benefit of the tourists and fans who won't be driving out to Willow (about 70 miles north of here) for the actual start of the race. Most years we've parked ourselves at the corner of Fourth and Cordova to watch the teams go by, but this year we went down to the hill at Cordova and 15th for a different view. Here are a few shots.

This is Paul Gebhardt and his team. The lady sitting in the front is his "Iditarider." Fans bid on the opportunity to go for the ride, with the proceeds going to the individual mushers to help defray costs. Everybody wins. :)


This is Hans Gatt, who came in second last year.


These dogs seems happy to be on the tail.


Ken Anderson's dog handler wipes out.

[Callalily]

1. Yes, the dogs do look happy.

And the third photo, shows such confident dogs.

Nice snow by the way. We still have tons left, and more fresh snow is expected this week.

Spring is NOT around the corner here! ;-)

[Mira]

2. Now - clues in because of you - I see and read about the

Iditarod in all kinds of places.
Nothing though beats your photos and reports.

[NV Whino]

3. Nice vantage point

Looking forward to all you photos. Will you be at the finish this year?

[Blue_In_AK]

4. Yes, we will.

We go out to Nome next Monday for 10 days. :)

[Solly Mack]

5. Like ESPN only better!

Thanks, Blue!!

[Blue_In_AK]

6. Here is Anchorage Daily News coverage

I'll try to post the links daily for those of you who want to keep up. It's really fun to follow all the mushers as they make their way out to the West Coast.

http://www.adn.com/2011/03/06/1740324/fanfare-ends-iditarod-now-is-all.html

I love the comments. :rofl: