The First Iditarod 1973
Rod Perry was one of the original mushers in the very first Iditarod in 1973, and he shares his unforgettable experience of a race that was nothing like today’s competition!
🎧 TUNE IN to hear what the FIRST IDITAROD was really like!
It was an adventure of a lifetime—wild, unpredictable, and filled with challenges.
👉 Listen to Rod Perry’s firsthand account on our podcast!
📍 Time Stamp: 15:30
🔗 Big Alaska Show Podcast Archive
Rod Perry, 1973 Iditarod start ©Anchorage Daily News
A Race That Changed Everything
📸 Rod Perry at the 1973 Iditarod start – © Anchorage Daily News
The fate of the Iditarod hung in the balance as these determined trailsmen embarked on their historic journey. With the race’s future riding on their shoulders, they refused to fail. Their success turned the Iditarod into Alaska’s most famous annual event.
That first legendary run to Nome remains the greatest Iditarod adventure of all time, yet no comprehensive film has ever captured the raw, untamed spirit of their journey.