This past week I received an email alerting me about a touching story involving an aspriring Iditarod musher. Matt Anderson is from Shenandoah Iowa and wrestled for the University of Iowa. He was always fascinated by dogs and Alaska, and following a trip to Alaska during college, he realized that he truly wanted to race in the Iditarod — and win it.
After practicing with a team of dogs he purchased, Matt was able to qualify for this year’s race. (Yes, I realize it’s March, and most of you are only thinking about college basketball at this time, but the Iditarod happens to be going on as we speak.)
Matt is a classic underdog; he had to select 16 of his 19 dogs to race with, which is a much smaller number to choose from than most other mushers. Despite the heavy odds, a recent check at the constantly updated leaderboard places Matt at 35th overall, with 14 of his dogs remaining.
Matt’s former wrestling teammate, Jessman Smith, is in Alaska following along and giving updates. He gives us an idea of what things are like along the 1100 mile journey
He’s been lost, wrecked, tangled, slid down glaciers (off of his sled) and fallen through an ice bridge and into the river. He’s banged up his sled, himself, and a couple of dogs.
While activities like fishing, bowling, and poker receive television coverage, it’s really true warriors and athletes like Matt who should be garnering airtime for their courageous efforts along the Iditarod Trail.
You can continue to follow the race at the leaderboard, and you can visit the Iditarod Iowan to help support Matt’s dream.
UPDATE: Matt finished 40th in the Iditarod, completing the trail in 12 days and 45 minutes.
