And They’re Off

Mushers in the 23rd running of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race took their ceremonial departure from Alaska’s largest city, making a relaxed run down a path of trucked-in snow in sunny 20-degree weather.

The teams drove 20 miles to suburban Eagle River before packing up for the day. This year, racers are carrying paying passengers out of the starting gate as a marketing ploy to help balance a tight budget.