2023 Iditarod drawing near

WASILLA — The 2023 Iditarod is fast approaching.

The ceremonial start in downtown Anchorage is traditionally set for the first Saturday in March. With a big cheery welcome from around the world to inspire them for the race, mushers embark on the long and arduous journey from Willow to Nome the following day. The Willow Community Center is traditionally where the official race start begins.

The Iditarod draws dedicated athletes from across the world and the 2023 race is no exception.

According to a recent press release, veteran musher Ramey Smyth made a late registration but still made it in time to participate in this year’s race.

Smyth was born and raised in Alaska. His parents are none other than the iconic Iditarod mushers Bud Smyth, who raced in the first Iditarod, and the late Lolly Medley who raced in the second Iditarod.

Smyth has participated in the 26 Iditarods and placed in the top 10 on 12 occasions.

“I am entering the Iditarod because I love working with sled dogs. Mushing is a great way to connect to my historical Alaska roots and to challenge myself. My family loves sled dogs and this gives us an opportunity to work together on a common goal,” Smyth stated in the press release.

According to separate press releases, veteran Iditarod mushers Travis Beals and Lars Monsen, decided to withdraw from this year’s race.

Iditarod Trail Committee officials indicated that they’re looking forward to welcoming Wade Marrs and all the other veteran and rookie mushers in the 51st race.

The 2023 Iditarod mushers will follow the Southern Route.

The annual Iditarod Banquet will be held at the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center to commemorate the history of The Last Great Race and look towards the future.

The Iditarod Trail Committee is hosting the first Musher Meet and Greet since 2020, giving fans the opportunity to mingle with the mushers before the race kicks off.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to acquire posters made by longtime Iditarod photographer Jeff Schultz. They can even bring their own items to be autographed.

The meet and greet will feature light appetizers and a no-host bar from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

The second half of the evening is the 2023 Mushers Banquet Gala, featuring a tribute to iconic musher Lance Mackey, live and silent auctions, appearances from famous Iditarod athletes, 2023 Iditarod merchandise, dinner, drinks, and the first in-person Musher Bib Draw since 2020. The Gala runs from 6 to 5:30 p.m. and the doors open at 5:30 p.m.

All proceeds raised at this annual fundraiser will go toward the general operations of the Iditarod.

Follow the Iditarod on social media and visit the recent center on their official website for updates.

For more information, visit iditarod.com.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com