HUMAN

Name: Cathy Mackey

Residence: I’m a longtime resident of the Wasilla and Coldfoot area

Age: 77

Occupation: Retired

Years involved with Iditarod: Since ’81

Past Iditarod Roles: I started when I worked downstairs at Teeland’s for Jewels Mead and Leslie. And when my hips got too bad, I went upstairs and volunteered. My dear Rainey, she got me a job. I worked full-time, she worked part-time, and we split her paycheck. I could have used a little more, but I enjoyed it. So I’ve been involved with Iditarod mostly since Dick and I got married in ’82. Prior to that, the time in the office with Rainey about a year. 

Current Location: Settler’s Bay Lodge in Wasilla, Alaska
Date of Photo: March 1, 2022

Temperature: 68 F Indoors

What was one of your most memorable Iditarod experiences?

One of my most memorable Iditarod experiences was when I was working upstairs from Teeland’s with Rainey. It was the first year, and Joe May was winning. His mother called and said, “I’m sorry to bother you, but my son’s running this race.” I said, “Yes, Mrs. May. I know. I’m watching it. I’m listening to it. I’ll give you a call.” She thanked me for that. Then a few hours later, I called her back and I said, “Mrs. May, listen up. I’m putting you on to the TV so you can hear your son come in.” She was so excited, and I was so happy to help her. I really enjoyed that.

What does the 50th running of the Iditarod mean to you?

Knowing this is the 50th Iditarod makes me feel a little bit old, even though I wasn’t around in ’73, as far as Iditarod went. But I’ve been with Dick for 40 years, and there’s nobody crazier about Iditarod than Dick and his four sons. They’ve all run the Iditarod. Two have won, and Dick is so proud of all the boys. It just really feels good. So thank you.

What do you know for sure?:

What I know for sure in life is, I think Iditarod has really brought a lot to the state. It’s not only the state sport, but it’s a learning experience for everybody that goes on it.