Saturday, March 12, 2011

2011 Iditarod Sled Dog Race Underway

In my next life, I want to be an Alaskan musher and run a team of Alaskan Huskies in the Iditarod!

Alaskan Huskies are not the same as Siberian Huskies.  Alaskan Huskies are not a recognized breed by any breed registry, such as the American Kennel Club.  Therefore, the mushers and handlers of these dogs are free to breed for maximum performance--not a breed standard or a certain look.

There are many people who have for decades been decrying the inbreeding that goes on to keep a breed "pure" to a breed registry standard.  (One of my favorite bloggers, Patrick Burns from Terrierman is very outspoken about this.)  Many point out that breeding for a certain look and standard promotes health problems in the breeds. 

Lance Mackey, winner of the last four Iditarods, is show here at last Sunday's restart (the real start of the race) in Willow, Alaska.  Ahead of the team is a trail of over 1,150 miles through breathtakingly beautiful and extremely challenging terrain.  Good luck to all the teams.  May you all stay healthy and safe!

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