Ryan Redington, 36, was born and raised in Knik, Alaska, and he returns there every year to train for and race the Iditarod. Ryan and his family, wife Erin and children Eve, 4, and TJ, 3, now make their home in Skagway, Alaska. Ryan has been running dogs since he could reach the handle bars. His grandfather, Joe Redington Sr., founded the Iditarod. Dog mushing is a family tradition. Ryan, his father Raymie, and brothers, Ray and Robert, have all competed in the race. Ryan has run many races across Alaska and the lower 48 states and enjoys running the Iditarod for the challenge it provides. Ryan also has a daughter, Raynee 17, who lives in North Carolina. Ryan says he enjoys hunting, fishing, trapping and spending time with family.