Category archives: Culture

The Iditarod Trail Committee’s (ITC) Board of Directors proudly announces Dr. Stuart Nelson as the Honorary Musher for the 53rd Running of The Last Great Race®. Dr. Stuart Nelson sadly passed away in September 2024. Nelson’s long-standing dedication to the Iditarod, which spanned 38 years, has left an indelible mark on the event. Having started as a trail veterinarian, he became the Chief Veterinarian in 1995, a role he held for decades thanks to his expertise, calm demeanor, and unwavering commitment to the health and safety of the sled dogs.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Nelson’s mission was clear: to develop protocols and programs to ensure the well-being of the athletes—both canine and human. Focused initially on racehorses early in his career, Dr. Nelson shifted his attention to sled dogs after his experiences as an Iditarod trail veterinarian. His work in canine athletic health has contributed significantly to our understanding of the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and nutritional needs of sled dogs, with the benefits extending beyond the race to improve the health of pets worldwide.

Dr. Nelson also distinguished himself as a dedicated educator. He offered invaluable guidance to fellow veterinarians and mushers, but his efforts to share knowledge went beyond the race. He communicated with the broader public, including race fans, educators, and the general community, presenting complex topics in a way that was accessible to all. He educated and inspired countless individuals through articles published in professional journals, the Iditarod Race Guide, and the Dog Care section of the Iditarod website. Mushers have always appreciated Dr. Nelson’s readiness to lend his expertise and answer questions year-round.

“Stu’s warm presence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to exemplary dog care have left an indelible mark on all who worked with him. He was a remarkable and intrepid man, and his legacy will live on through the many people he inspired. His impact will never be forgotten. His contributions to the Iditarod were only topped by his months-long solo adventures to parts of the Arctic rarely seen by others,” said Iditarod CEO Rob Urbach.

When asked in an interview by long-time Iditarod Photographer Jeff Schultz, “what do you know for sure?” Stu responded, “Well, I know that we all die, that our Creator has allowed us to be here, and that we must be the best stewards of our animal athletes that we can be.”

The Iditarod Trail Committee is proud to honor Dr. Stu as the 2025 Iditarod Honorary Musher, and will ensure that his legacy lives on within the sport of mushing and the health and care of the canine athletes of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.