HUMAN

Name: Katie O’Connor

Age: 56

Residence: Wasilla, Alaska

Occupation: Field Representative for homeowners insurance.

Years involved with the Iditarod: 2

Iditarod Roles: Trail Crew

Current Location: Shaktoolik, Alaska

Date of Photo: March 13, 2022

Temperature: 6F Outdoors &20-30 MPH Winds & Gusts 50 to 60 MPH

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

I first became involved with Iditarod two years ago. I had relocated to Alaska from the state of New York. And I love dogs and I love winter, so it seemed like a perfect match to volunteer and get involved with the race.

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

I am here today and involved with the Iditarod because of the dogs. I have a background working with, working German shepherds. So I appreciate that the dogs doing what they were bred to do. And seeing that in action.

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

One of my most memorable Iditarod experiences was, my tour right now. This is my first Iditarod. I was in Nikolai, my first checkpoint assignment and the village support there was tremendous. The village was welcoming and their support and help for both the volunteers and the mushers was excellent example of what the race is all about.

What in life do you know for sure?

What I know for sure in life is that, I love winter and hopefully I will be able to continue volunteering for the Iditarod.