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Rod Perry Interview: Founding the Iditarod, Yukon Quest, and Saving the Sled Dog

  • March 22, 2026
  • Editor and/or Contributors
Rod Perry Interview: Founding The Iditarod, Yukon Quest, And Saving The Sled Dog

On this episode of the Mushing Podcast, Robert Forto sits down with Iditarod pioneer Rod Perry for a deep and wide-ranging conversation about the origins of the race, the history of the Iditarod Trail, and the future of dog mushing.

Perry reflects on his involvement in the early days of the Iditarod, including helping shape race rules, designing the iconic finisher’s patch, and contributing to the founding of the Yukon Quest alongside Leroy Shank. He also shares firsthand stories from life on the trail, including remote expeditions, trail navigation challenges, and the evolution of sled dog racing over the past five decades. 

The conversation explores a critical theme: the true purpose behind the creation of the Iditarod, preserving sled dogs and their role in Alaska’s history, while addressing common misconceptions about the Serum Run. Perry also discusses his work as a historian and educator, engaging thousands of visitors each year and helping bridge the gap between past and present. 

The episode closes with a thoughtful discussion on the modern Iditarod, including the Expedition Class, changing race dynamics, and the challenge of maintaining storytelling, culture, and authenticity in an evolving sport. 

Resources 

📸 Photo Credit: Jeff Schultz
Copyright: © 2022 Jeff Schultz/schultzphoto.com

Champion of Alaskan Huskies – Joe Redington Sr. Father of the Iditarod

TrailBreakers: Pioneering Alaska’s Iditarod, Vol. 1

Trailbreakers, Pioneering Alaska’s Iditarod, Vol. 2: The Most Daring Iditarod Adventure of All Time- founding the Last Great Race on Earth

Iditarod – The First Ten Years

  • Iditarod podcast
  • dog mushing history
  • Iditarod history
  • Yukon Quest history
  • sled dog racing podcast
  • mushing podcast interview
  • Iditarod pioneers
    Alaska sled dog culture
  • history of the Iditarod race origins
  • who founded the Yukon Quest
  • why the Iditarod was created
  • sled dog culture Alaska history
  • Iditarod trail history explained
  • expedition class Iditarod controversy
  • Rod Perry mushing interview
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