HUMAN

Name: John Vassel
Age: 60
Residence: Jackson, Michigan
Occupation: Fire alarm technician
Years involved with Iditarod: 3
Iditarod Role: Volunteer
Current Location: Lakefront Hotel, Anchorage, AK

Date of Photo: FEBRUARY 27, 2025
Temperature: 68F

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

I got involved with the Iditarod. I was on the Iditacruise put on by a bunch of Iditarod fans and celebrities, and also a number of volunteers were on that cruise, and a few of them asked me why they hadn’t seen me volunteering, so I decided to volunteer. We’ve been fans, my wife and I have been fans of the Iditarod for a few decades, and we decided to help out.

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

 

I am here today and involved with Iditarod because I enjoy the race. I’ve always loved watching it, and I know it takes a lot to put it on. I get to see the race, I get to be involved in the race, and I get to help make sure it continues.

Tell me about your most memorable Iditarod experiences?:

One of my most memorable Iditarod experiences was my first year up I was asked by Gerhardt Thiart to photographer or be a photographer for his second run at the Iditarod. I got to hang out with him, take pictures of him and the team, and escort him all the way to the start line. At my first Iditarod, I got to see what it was like to follow a team from the very staging area all the way to the start line.

What do you know for sure?:

What I know for sure in life is you got to have fun while you’re able to, so don’t wait until it’s too late.