HUMAN

Name: Shyanne Sterling
Age: 20
Residence: Washington State in Sedro-Woolley and Talkeetna, Alaska
Occupation: Dog handler for Dallas Seavey’s Kennel as a guide
Years involved with Iditarod: First year
Iditarod Role: Dog handler
Current Location: Downtown Anchorage Ceremonial Start, Anchorage, Alaska

Date of Photo: March 1, 2025
Temperature: 30F outside

What, who or how and when did you first get involved with the Iditarod?:

I first became involved with the Iditarod this year. I got a job working at Dallas Seavey’s Kennel as a tour guide and dog handler for them. And my sister moved up to Fairbanks, so I wanted to move closer to her up in Alaska, so now I’m down in Talkeetna.

What is your Why? Why are you here TODAY and involved with the Iditarod?

I’m here today and involved with the Iditarod because I want to help support Sam and to cheer her on as she gets started on her race.

Tell me about your most memorable Iditarod experiences?:

One of my most memorable Iditarod experiences is definitely today getting to be up here and helping Sam get ready to go down the trail. This is actually my first time watching the Ceremonial Start for the race, so I’m super hyped to be here.

What do you know for sure?:

What I know for sure in life is that I love being part of the dog-mushing community. I used to do a bunch of races as kids, and now to be able to get back and do it is one of the coolest things to be a part of.