Due to lack of snow in southcentral Alaska, the 2015 Iditarod started in Fairbanks this year for the second time in history. The last time this happened was 2003, and I remember photographing it with the real first professional model of Canon’s digital camera line-up, the 1D (4mp). Digital cameras have come a long way since then.
Dog races have evolved as well. You can now follow the Iditarod through GPS chips that team members have on their sleds. You can also get disqualified for carrying an iPod capable of two-way communication, which unfortunately, caused Brent Sass (2015 Yukon Quest Champion) a heartbreaking disqualification this year (although he never used it that way, nor did he plan to).
Picking a winner is nigh unto gambling, since the race field is so thick with former champions and viable talent. However, I’m putting my hopes into Aliy Zirkle, who has taken 2nd place the last three years. I think it just seems like it is her turn.
I took a few photos along the trail this year, some in Fairbanks, and some in Manley Hot Springs, about 150 into the 1000 mile race.
