Ed, 47, grew up in Ludington, Michigan enjoying competitive sports, dogs and being outside. After high school, he attended Michigan State University where he received a Bachelor of Science from Lyman Briggs College of Science. Approximately 13 years ago, Ed and his wife left their “real world” jobs to operate Nature’s Kennel Sled Dog Adventures and Racing full time. Their kennel is located in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula, and they offer dog sled adventures geared toward the beginner.

Along with tours and racing, Ed and Tasha combine their mushing experience with their past teaching experience to do presentations for students in kindergarten through 8th grade around the US and abroad. Their “Pulling Together” presentations focus on teamwork and respect from a sled dog’s viewpoint.

When not training dogs and entertaining guests, Ed spends his free time with his two children, Nate, 6, and Fern, 4.

In the 2017 Iditarod, Ed is excited to run a team of one year olds. His racing partner, Laura Neese, will have the adult racing team while Ed will be taking a much slower pace to gain the young dogs valuable trail experience.