HUMAN

Name: Sherri DeCoursey

Age: 53

Residence: Martinsville, Indiana

Occupation:  Self-employed marketing and project management

Years involved with Iditarod: 3

Iditarod role: Return dog handler

Current Location: Unalakleet, Alaska

Date of Photo: March 16, 2020
Temperature: 35F/Outdoors

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

I got involved with, Iditarod when a friend who had attended two previous Iditarods asked me if I wanted to go with her three years ago, and I said, “Why not?” She didn’t want to go alone. I had never gone. I like adventure, I like new things, I like spontaneity and this was a perfect fit. We came out here together and she was connected with one of the mushers at that time and in a sponsorship role with Charley Bejna. We were able to meet up with Charlie and I got to know a little bit more about his dogs and what he does on the trail, and then went to the start and the restart and fell in love with it.

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

I’m here today and involved with Iditarod because I really, number one, love the dogs and their athletic ability. I am also in awe of the mushers and what it takes for them mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally to get through the race. I also love the community because I always leave here feeling like I’ve made new friends. And when I come back the next year, they’re here waiting for me.

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

One of my most memorable Iditarod experiences was when a friend purchased my Iditarider seat in Charley Bejna’s sled last year. And I was able to mush down the road with him for the 12 miles. I cried for probably the first four minutes because it was just so special, and to see the support lining the roads and lining the trails for the mushers just really touched me.

What do you know for sure?:

What I know for sure in life is that you have to have passion and a passion for something that you love or value and that you’re willing to invest in so that you can be happy and fulfilled.