Larson wins February 50 Sled Dog Race

Photography by Lonny Cruff

The February 50 Sled Dog Race, sponsored by the Kuskokwim 300 Race Committee has a winner. Willie Larson, racing a team from the Bad River Kennel finished first, crossing the line in Bethel with a time of 3:31:40.

He earned $2,742.30 for his finish. In all, 13 teams participated in the race.

Coming in second, seven minutes after Larson was Gilbert Phillip of Akiak. His time was 3:38:08.

Bringing home the Red Lantern Award is Robert Michael.

The race started on Sunday, February 17th at 11:00 am at the Charles Family Lake in Bethel. The trailed headed towards the tundra villages, past Atmautluak to 2 miles out of Nunapitchuk, and then back on the trail to Bethel. The race was approximately 47 miles.

February 50 Sled Dog Race Results

1. Willie Larson, 3:31:40, $2,742.30

2. Gilbert Phillip, 3:38:08, $2,492.30

3.Isaac Underwood, 3:46:04, $2,292.30

4. Jim George, 3:51:19, $2,092.30

5. Father Alexander Larson, 3:53:01, $1,892.30

6. Cameron Jackson, 3:57:56, $1,742.30

7. Nicholas Ayapan, 3:58:59, $1,492.30

8. Joe “Sonny” Demantle III, 4:11:35, $1,292.30

9. Wassillie Isaac, 4:13:40, $1,092.30

10. George Manutoli, 4:14:26, $942.30

11. Mike Williams Jr. 4:15:21, $792.30

12. Nate DeHaan, 4:29: 24, $642.30

13. Robert Michael, 4:39:17, $492.30