For many, the Iditarod is a test of endurance, skill, and an unbreakable bond between musher and dog. For Minot native Sydnie Bahl, it’s also the realization of a passion she found after moving to Alaska just four years ago. A University of North Dakota graduate and physical therapist by training, Bahl discovered sled dog racing, completed her qualifiers, and is now competing in the legendary race from Anchorage to Nome. Kyona Rivera with KMOT is following her progress; catch up there for the full story and we’ll pass along updates as KMOT delivers them.
And of historical note, the 2025 Iditarod is following the same route as “The Great Race of Mercy” which took place in 1925. That race is fondly remembered as the participants were a literal life line, tasked with delivering life-saving diphtheria antitoxin to Nome Alaska, which was in the midst of severe outbreak.
