It is nice to be at the finish line for teams. I have seen a lot throughout the race. I have seen their highs and lows and now to see the dogs proudly trotting underneath the burled arch is a privilege. His wife Gwen was there to meet him, accompanied by their son Leif, who has more energy than an average sled dog.
Ken proceeded to snack his team with hot dogs upon arrival, I tried getting one too, but he would not share. Bystanders were hollering to get booties. I never will figure out why someone wants a sticky dog boot full of dogcrap. Leif was happy to give them out though.
The last time Ken finished 9th was in 2011. His highest placing has been 4th place twice, in 2008 and 2010. Ken is truly addicted to running Iditarod. This is his 15th trip to Nome since 1999 and he has never scratched, His wife’s Gwen’s biggest fear is, that he ever gets sick right before the race and she has to take the team, as she is well qualified being a Quest and Iditarod finisher herself.
Enjoy the shots:
