Hannah's Iditarod Debut

[dropcap]I[/dropcap]ts that time of year again, we are knocking at the door of Iditarod 2013! This has become somewhat of a tradition for us. When Kyle and I were just dating we made a point to attend the ceremonial start and have been going ever since. Once upon a time Kyle (Don't tell him I told you this) had the opportunity to do a little racing of his own, running the Jr. Yukon Quest in high school. Since then, we have friends that annually run this race and its is something that we look forward to and follow every year. This year, we have been contacted by the folks at Make-A-Wish Alaska to help share the story of a young girl from small-town Connecticut as her dreams come true to ride in the Ceremonial start of the 2013 Iditarod. We are exited to not only watch the Last Great Race unfold, but to follow a 14 year old girl named Hannah, who has traveled far from home, taking a much needed break from what has become routine doctor visits and many appointments. Hannah has a heart for animals ans a passion for the great Alaskan adventure. With help from Make-A-Wish Hannah is able fulfill a dream of hers that could only become possible with the help of Donlin Gold, a Principal partner of the Iditarod and many other generous supporters. Hannah will proudly make her mushing debut with seasoned Iditarod vet, Ramey Smith. Leading up to the start Hannah was able to participate in some of the many pre-race events leading up to the exciting start. This includes meet and greets, the mushers banquet and a few other fun stops, to help round out her the experience and familiarize her with all aspects of what will soon be a dream come true. Hannah, along with her family, will also be ushered in as a guest of honor to the restart that happens in Willow, Alaska on Sunday. This will give her one last chance to cheer on the mushers as they continue the arduous 1,049 mile journey to Nome, Alaska. As you watch the Iditarod, wether it be on 5^th avenue in Anchorage, or from your TV screens from all over the world, help us in giving Hannah a huge Alaska welcome as enjoys this life highlight! Stay tuned this week for photos and race updates as we follow this year's Iditarod race. You can also find great information on Iditarod.com.