Pre-race Update | The Burled Arch Podcast

In this episode of the Burled Arch Podcast, hosts Robert Forto and Michele Fortodiscuss the upcoming Iditarod race, including significant changes to the route and ceremonial start due to unusual winter conditions in Alaska. They provide updates on the new burl arch being constructed for the race, share insights on the mushers participating this year, and highlight the importance of Mushing Magazine as a resource for fans. The conversation emphasizes the excitement and challenges of the race and the community surrounding dog mushing.

Takeaways

The Iditarod is facing unique challenges this year due to weather conditions.
The ceremonial start has been shortened to adapt to the lack of snow.
A new burled arch is being constructed for the race’s 100th anniversary.
Following the Serum Run Trail, this year’s Iditarod will be the longest in history.
15 rookies are participating in this year’s race, adding to the excitement.
Mushers are adjusting their strategies due to the longer distances between checkpoints.
The hosts are excited about the upcoming coverage and community engagement.
Mushing magazine has undergone significant changes and is now more than just a print publication.
The podcast aims to provide comprehensive coverage of the Iditarod race.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with the hosts during the race coverage.

Sound Bites

“This is the Burled Arch podcast.”
“It’s been one of the oddest winters.”
“A dedication will take place on March 11th.”
“We are the new owners of mushing magazine.”
“It’s much more than a print magazine.”
“It’s going to be a great race.”

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Burled Arch Podcast

03:06 Iditarod Updates and Changes

17:28 Musher Profiles and Predictions

25:23 Mushing Magazine and Future Plans

Resources

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Send us your questions and story ideas: 303-578-9881

2025 Iditarod Competitors

About the Iditarod

The Iditarod is held each year starting on the first Saturday of March, with a ceremonial start in Anchorage and an official restart in Fairbanks on Monday. In 2026, the Iditarod will follow a modified route this year, including much of the 1925 Serum Run trail and onward to Nome. It will be the longest Iditarod in the race’s history, almost 1150 miles. For more information, please visit Iditarod.com

About The Burled Arch Podcast

Award-winning podcasters Robert and Michele Forto hosts the Burled Arch podcast and covers the race nightly on various media platforms. For more information, please visit Mushing.com

About Team & Trail

Team & Trail became a significant factor in the growth of sled dog racing worldwide. Sled dog racing needed an international association to standardize rules and racing events. The Team and Trail Foundation, a non-profit (501(c)3 pending) whose mission is to support the dog mushing community and lifestyle, was founded to offer unique sports sponsorship opportunities. For more information, please visit teamandtrail.org

Mushing Magazine PO Box 84 Willow, Alaska 99688