Iditarod introduces a new ‘game of chance and skill’ to guess 2020 champion

WASILLA — Spectators have a new way to immerse themselves in the Iditarod XLVIII, the Iditarod Trifecta. This new “game of chance and skill’ is an opportunity for Alaskan mushing fans and fans across the world to win a cash purse for guessing the most accurate results, down to the musher, time and number of dogs.

Iditarod fans have until March 8 to enter their guess in the Trifecta pot. The total number of entries determines the Trifecta purse. The bigger the pot, the bigger the pay out and only one lucky winner to take it all once the results come in for the 48th running of the “Last Great Race on Earth.”

According to Iditarod CEO Rob Urbach, making a winning guess is more than mere luck. He said there’s a plethora of variables to consider, including weather and trail conditions.

“You’ve got to think it through,” Urbach said.

He said it takes research, knowledge and a lot of consideration. He likened it to fantasy football leagues and said they took inspiration from how other sports across the country engage their fans.

The Trifecta is one of the many examples of the Iditarod organization seeking new and innovative ways to engage race fans and keep the race relevant in the years to come.

Spectators can follow the race on the Iditarod’s live stream on their website to keep track of their mushers.

“It might be more of a heightened experience for you,” Urbach said.

There’s at least six former winners in this year’s race along with several strong, younger racers, and rookies of the year, according to Urbach. Veteran mushers like Ally Zirkle will be eager to blaze the trails in hopes of reaching Nome first. He said it’s going to be an exciting and competitive race.

“It’s going to be a really great race. We’re really looking forward to it,” Urbach.

The entrant with the most accurate prediction wins the purse. The winner will be announced by March 22.

The purse is split between the Trifecta winner, the Iditarod and this year’s top twenty finishers. It’s broken down to 40%, 40%, and 20% respectively.

To participate, enter a prediction that includes the Iditarod champion, their finish time and the number of dogs that cross the finish line.

Urbach said this new game is a fun and interactive way to follow the race and with the chance to win big.

“Imagine what it would be like to win this?” Urbach said. “Put your entry in, give the right guess and winning would be a pretty big thrill for an individual.”

Each guess costs $10, and there is no limit to the total number of entries.

Fans interested that wish to submit their entries in person must complete the official entry form and payment no later than 1 p.m. on March 8 at the Iditarod Headquarters off Knik Goose Bay Road.

Mailed entries must be received by the Iditarod no later than Friday, March 6, at 5 p.m. For more information, call 907-376-5155 or visit Iditarod.com/trifecta-2020.

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