HUMAN

Name: Joe Kelly

Age: 33
Residence: Wasilla, Alaska
Occupation: Dog Musher.

Years involved with Iditarod: 20 plus years.

Iditarod Role: I’m the banner coordinator for the starting line, finish line, the return dog coordinator for McGrath this year.
Current Location: McGrath, Alaska

Date of Photo: March 11, 2020
Temperature: -5F/Outdoors

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

I first got involved with the Iditarod back in 1995, when my mom went to go take me to see that Balto movie that came out. I was sitting there, watching the movie, and just had this urge come over me, I had to go run dogs, it was something I just had to do, and it’s been with me ever since. I’m 33 years old now, and I’ll be running here pretty soon. I have been running with a couple dog watchers out in Wasilla, getting in shape, and ready for the race.

What is your Why?..Why are you here today and involved in Iditarod?

I’m here today, involved with the Iditarod because it’s just a part of who I am, it’s in my blood. I really enjoy being with the dogs and everybody else that shares the same love and passion with me.

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

One of my most memorable memories of the Iditarod would have to be whenever I was asked to be the Hub coordinator for Anchorage last year because I’ve been working with the program. This is my 10th year now, and last year it was a dream come true to be able to take over a checkpoint.

What do you know for sure?:

I know life’s too short and sometimes you just have to seize the moment, follow your heart, and tackle those goals that you always thought were impossible because you never know if you can succeed in doing those impossible goals. So, go out, go do something new, and go have fun doing it.