Musher Details
Biography
My name is Sam Paperman and I grew up in Seward, Alaska. I began as a handler with Turning Heads Kennel in 2018 at the age of 14 and started running dogs the following year. Since then dog mushing has become a central part of my life, and I’m thrilled to be training and preparing to take our puppy team all the way to Nome in the 2026 Iditarod.
Outside of mushing, I’m a diesel heavy technician and marine engineer by trade, with experience working in various regions across Alaska. I also serve as an EMT and volunteer with the Bear Creek Volunteer Fire Department, where I respond to a range of emergencies—from medical calls to house fires and search and rescue missions.
