Here is the information you requested on the Iditarod.
The information says it best, that I can recall. I (John A. Thorsen) was assigned to Galena AFB, Alaska the first year the Iditarod started.
I used the base HAM Radio and phones to keep up with the mushers. The atmospheric condition was such that I could barely hear the HAM Radio operator in Ruby, Alaska even with amplifier on (to much solar interfernces).
I would work my shift at the base (mess hall / chow hall) then go to the main hanger and try to reach out and talk to other folks along the trail. Most often getting nothing but sun spot noise.
If I heard anything, I would relay it to Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, who would in turn relay it to Iditarod Headquarters in Iditarod, Alaska for which the race is named.
The race was run under good to poor weather; warm clear days, what little there was and long cold nights. I have followed the race every year since and I will be 69 years old this coming May. There was only one trail the first year, the Northern Route. I don’t remember when they staretd the Southern Route, but I’ve kept up with both of them ever since. Sincerely John A. Thorsen
Fort Worth, Texas
