The Iditarod Trail Committee (ITC) acknowledges the dedication, effort, and passion displayed by all the mushers who compete in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. We fully understand that this race is not just a test of endurance for the dogs, but also for the mushers, their teams, and the people who support them. It is with great care and respect that we address the difficult decisions that were made to withdraw Quince Mountain (bib #27) and Sydnie Bahl (bib #8) from the 2025 Iditarod based on Rule 36, which governs race withdrawals when certain conditions are met.
Our ultimate goal is for every Musher to reach Nome. However, each year brings its own unique set of challenges, including changing weather conditions, trail difficulties and the varying circumstances that affect the race. While we strive to maintain flexibility in regards to Rule 36, we must also recognize that the race itself is a high-level competition with inherent standards of excellence. Virtually all world class endurance events including the Olympics, Ironman triathlon, The Tour de France and the major marathons have either cut off times or a process to withdraw athletes to ensure the safety and competitive integrity of the event. While we offer as much support as possible when a team lags far behind the leaders, and is no longer reasonably competitive then we carefully assess the dynamic. Taking into account the musher’s individual situation and the trail, weather, pace of the race and the well-being of their dogs or combination thereof, there is a threshold that necessitates making the difficult decision to withdraw a team from the race. This is in accordance with Rule 36, which ensures that mushers are competing at a level that is safe and fair for both them and their dogs.
This decision is never made lightly. We recognize the hard work, time, and resources invested by each and every musher who competes in the Iditarod. We also understand the personal sacrifices that go into preparing for and running the race. Ultimately, the health and safety of the dogs and the fairness of the competition are paramount. When a team’s progress is significantly delayed, and maintaining those standards becomes untenable, it is our responsibility to make these tough decisions, even though they are heartbreaking for all involved.
We want to express our deepest gratitude and sympathy to those who were affected by these withdrawals. It is not a reflection of their skill, passion, or dedication, but rather a necessary step in ensuring that the Iditarod continues to be a race that holds true to its core values of dog care, safety, and fairness. We thank every musher for their commitment to the race and the sport, to preserving the legacy of the sled dog and the Iditarod Trail, and we look forward to welcoming them back in future years to take on the challenge once again.
