Berington’s Dog Truck. Anna Drew Bib #2 for her 13th Iditarod (Photo: Siri Raitto)

One of the broadcast announcers said, “I’ve never had to dress this warm for the start of the race.”  Indeed, it was one of the chillier ceremonial starts in recent history – chilly for humans but the mid-teen temperatures suited the dogs just fine.  Enjoy a few of Siri Raitto’s photos from the start in downtown Anchorage.  More photos are available in the photo gallery.

Emily Robinson, first off with Wilson Hughes. Wally Robinson, Bib 39, Final Musher (Photo: Siri Raitto)

Emily Robinson and her father Wally.  As Jr. Iditarod Champion, Emily had the honor of transporting Iditarod’s Honorary Musher, Wilson Hughes, for the run out to Campbell Airstrip.  Her father, Wally, is taking injured Josh McNeal’s team to Nome.  Wally last ran Iditarod in 2001.

Jessie Holmes in His 7th Iditarod (Photo: Siri Raitto)

Hunter Keefe, Back to do his Team Justice (Photo: Siri Raitto)

Rookie Anna Hennessy (Photo: Siri Raitto)

Musher Has a Moment with Leaders (Photo: Siri Raitto)