In March 2009 a legendary dog race will begin winding its way across the frozen expanses of Alaska.
The Iditarod Dog Sled Race commemorates the efforts of the a group of sledders who transported vital medicines to diphtheria victims in the Bering Sea town of Nome during the outbreak of 1925.
During the courageous journey 20 drivers risked their lives to travel for five days with their life-saving cargo.
The race began as a commemoration of this heroic effort and while this still a crucial part of proceedings, it has now evolved into a fiercely competitive event.
On the first Saturday of March a ceremonial start in Anchorage remembers the actions of the brave souls more than 80 years ago, before the restart the following day in Wasilla begins the main event, which will poignantly conclude in Nome itself.
The race covers 1150 miles of some of the most spectacular scenery and terrain anywhere on Earth and will take the competitors anywhere between 10 and 17 days to complete.
Alaska is the largest US state in terms of land mass but only has a population of just under 700,000 people.
Active and Adventure – Air Activities – Enjoy an exhilarating helicopter ride over New York or a serene hot air balloon ride over the Australian outback.