FRANKLYWNOW - It’s safety first for the Iron Dog Race

Two thousand and thirty-one miles — that’s the distance of the Iron Dog Race. It will start at Big Lake on Sunday after a ceremonial day Saturday in Anchorage. The trail will take them to Nome, then back to Fairbanks.

It’s a long way and a lot can happen. But the 2017 Donlin Gold Safety Expo Wednesday at Cabela’s will go just as far to mitigate any problems. 

Danny Hester is a volunteer inspector ensuring each racer meets the all-important checklist. 

“We’re looking to make sure they have all their safety gear, they have everything they need to wear,” Hester said. “There are certain things that are required.” 

And it’s not limited to worn equipment. For instance, a first aid kit is required. 

Hopefully, the ride will be smooth. The course is shaping up to produce a speedy finish.

“It’s very fast on the river, actually good through some of the challenging passes,” said Iron Dog executive Kevin Kastner. “Otherwise, better than what we have seen the last couple of years.” 

When snowmachiners drive this fast, there are risks. But, they’re being minimized before they ever get to the course. 

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