The Iditarod announced today that Capstone Family Medicine will be extending their Iditarod partnership. Capstone was an invaluable partner during the 2021 and 2022 races as their staff administered over 10,000 COVID tests to ensure delivery of the Iditarod’s COVID Prevention Plan and its objective of zero community transmission. Capstone’s healthcare team operating out of their COVID Mobile Testing Unit was ever present in Anchorage and Willow, supporting testing efforts along the trail and at the finish line in Nome. 

“Capstone’s healthcare delivery mission has always been to give back to the communities in which we serve our patients. The sponsorship of the Iditarod Sled Dog Championship offering testing services and funding is intended to ensure the race is safe for both mushers and four-legged athletes. We’re proud to be part of the race,” says Dennis Spencer, CEO of Medical Network of Alaska, parent company to Capstone. 

“Capstone has been a terrific partner for the Iditarod; they were highly proactive, resourceful and conscientious in helping us navigate COVID and their continued support demonstrates their heartfelt commitment to the spirit of the Iditarod and all Alaskans,” says Rob Urbach, Iditarod CEO. “We are excited and grateful to have Capstone continue their partnership of the Iditarod.”

The ceremonial start of the Iditarod will take place at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 4 in downtown Anchorage and the official Restart will take place at 2:00 pm on Sunday, March 5 at the Willow Community Center in Willow.  Fans are encouraged to come and support the teams on their journey to Nome.