Michael Williams, Jr., 32, was born in Bethel and raised in Akiak, Alaska. He says, “I have been involved with mushing since birth and have trained and raced dogs ever since I can remember. My dad has been racing the Kusko 300 and the Iditarod for many years and I helped train his team while he was attending meetings.” He graduated from Galena High School and attended AVTEC for one year. He is married to Phyllis Charlie and they are the parents of four, Paeton,7, Daniel and Kohl. 3, and Anna, 1. Michael says he enjoys hunting and fishing and spending time with his family. He is looking forward to running the Iditarod again and says a big “thank you” to all his friends, family and sponsors for their help.