I’m sure everyone’s heard of Tailgating before. It’s something all sports fans have done at one time or another. But what if I told you there’s an Alaskan version?
Every year we have the Iditarod sled dog race. It started back in 1973 to test the best mushers and teams. The teams race from Willow to Nome, taking days to finish. Everyone has seen the animation classic Balto, but if you haven’t, here’s the sign that you should.
Trail-gate happens on the day of the ceremonious Iditarod start in Anchorage. Tourists and locals alike go downtown to watch the dogs take off, but the real fun-havers go further down the trail to watch the mushers go by.
Every year a rather large group of my friends, coworkers and even total strangers have a themed “Trail-gate” party. This year’s theme was “Cowboys and Cowgirls”. Everyone wore their western best, while also bundling up for the chilly weather.
A table of snacks and refreshments is coordinated and carried through the snow. An emcee is chosen to announce the mushers and keep everyone interested in the four-hour event. Signs are made and everyone takes the time to catch up and celebrate the Iditarod. This year’s emcee was Sheriff Karie Vix, she kept the day fun and exciting for all of us.
The best part, of course, is watching the mushers run by team after team. We are a large group of tourism workers, so we get to know a lot of the mushers through coordinating group tours at their dog kennels in the summer. If we’re lucky, some mushers will stop to say ‘hello’, like the absolute legend Martin Buser did. Jeff King also made a quick pit stop with our Senator Lisa Murkowski in tow.
The Iditarod is an excuse for a day out with friends and to support the extremely brave men and women that take on the Alaskan wilderness. It is a race that has turned into a real Alaskan pastime and tradition. If you ever get the chance to get out and Trail-gate, take advantage of the truly Alaskan event.