HUMAN

Name: Jerzy Ellanna
Age: 29
Residence: Chugiak, Alaska from Fairbanks
Occupation: Photographer
Years involved with Iditarod: This is my first year back involved with the Iditarod. I’ve done it when I was a kiddo. And usually just a handler or photographer for my role.
Iditarod Role: Photographer
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 in the Iditarod as a kiddo. My family had hobby dogs, and then as I grew up and became a photographer I just got more and more involved on the photography and media side.

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 am following Emily Robinson, four time junior Iditarod winner around. She’s my favorite Iditarod celebrity.

Tell me about your most memorable Iditarod experiences?:

One of my most memorable Iditarod experiences was being able to be behind the line and in the handler area as a kiddo in Fairbanks during one of the starts. It’s just, as a kid growing up in the interior, mushing is just so much a part of your life.

What do you know for sure?:

What I know for sure in life, especially after this year, is that these junior Iditarod kids are the future.