Downtown Anchorage braces for a canine takeover as the Iditarod’s 54th run begins
Musher Keaton Loebrich of Fairbanks, Alaska, encourages applause from the crowd as he drives his dog team down Fourth Avenue in downtown Anchorage, Alaska, on Saturday, March 7, 2026, during the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. (AP Photo/Mark Thiessen)
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Hundreds of barking dogs took over downtown Anchorage as the ceremonial start of the world’s most famous sled dog race got underway Saturday. As snow fell, fans lined up near the starting line in frigid, 19 degree F (minus 7.2 degree C) weather to see and cheer their favorite mushers. The competitive start to the race begins Sunday.
Here’s what to know about the 54th running of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which features a new amateur category and financial support from a Norwegian billionaire.
Become a Subscriber!
You have read all of your free articles this month. Select a plan below to start your subscription today.
Already a subscriber? Login
