HUMAN

Name: Gary Bekoalok

Age: 57

Residence: Shaktoolik, Alaska

Occupation: Carpenter

Years involved with the Iditarod: 10

Iditarod Roles: Volunteer/Checker

Current Location: Shaktoolik, Alaska

Date of Photo: March 13, 2022

Temperature: 9F Outdoors & Windy

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

I saw the need for helping out at, I at the Ididarod, just living here in town, watching the event as it unfolds.

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

I’m here today, involved with the Iditarod because this is my heritage culture and my tradition. And it’s a value that is highly sought after here. Just carrying on our way of life. 

Tell me about just one of your most memorable Iditarod experiences.

One of my most memorable Iditarod experience was 1985 when Libby Riddles won. I had the honor and privilege of working with her in the summer here in Shaktoolik as she prepared for the race. And I was within earshot when the Elders told her to take some dog foods, straw, and go out to the shelter cabin and hole up for three days there. And that year she won race because she listened to the Elders. 

What in life do you know for sure?

One thing I know for sure in life is that when you see a need, you go out and help. The Native Eskimo has always been hospitable and caring for one another. And you see the need here at the Iditarod race and you just go out and help. And I see that the world over with many people.