VALDEZ, Alaska – The Coast Guard will be sponsoring a nine-year Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race veteran during the 2010 Iditarod race which will extend through 1049 miles of some of Alaska toughest terrain.
Ken Anderson, a Fairbanks resident, was provided an informational tour of the Coast Guard Cutter Long Island, the Small Boat Station and the Marine Safety Offices in Valdez Wednesday.
Twice Anderson has finished the race in the top five, with his best finish in 2008 when he placed fourth out of 97 participants.
“The Coast Guard has a proud history here in Alaska,” said Cmdr. Darryl Veraillie, commanding officer at Marine Safety Unit Valdez. “In our early history here in Alaska, dog sleds were used to help perform pivotal rescues of trapped whaling ship crews. We are proud to pay respect to a rich Alaska Coast Guard history by participating in this great race.”
Anderson also visited Herman Hutchins Elementary School in Valdez, talking with the children about mushing and the race. The school visit was the conclusion to a full day of touring Coast Guard units in Valdez.
“Visiting the children at the elementary school was great fun,” said Anderson. “It is an honor for me to be able to team up with the Coast Guard and help support a great organization.
Anderson will be flying the Coast Guard banner throughout the great race from Anchorage to Nome in the early March race.
