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Why is it called “The Last Great Race on Earth®”

Posted by Libby in Alaskan History, Race Coverage, Zuma and Reporters Answer Questions Date: February 2, 2009

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“The Last Great Race on Earth®” —  Iditarod.

You have seen those words before but are you wondering why Iditarod is called, “The Last Great Race® on Earth”?

The answer is pretty simple.  It is called “The Last Great Race on Earth®” because in 1978, a reporter for the London …..  Ian Woolridge, wrote an article about the race.  In the article, along with lots of other information, the reporter used the words, “The Last Great Race on Earth” to explain his thoughts and observations about the race.  What the reporter meant by those words was that the Iditarod was ‘the only really great race left.

A few years later, the Iditarod contacted the reporter and got permission to use the phrase.   ”The Last Great Race on Earth” was trademarked and is a phrase still used today.  (The emphasis is on GREAT RACE!)

Now think about the words ‘last’ and ‘great’.  Talk about the meaning of those words and use a dictionary to help you.   Make a list of things that you would describe as ‘last’ or ‘great’. Think about other words that could be used instead of those words that would mean the same thing.  Make posters or TV commercials about “The Last Great Race on Earth®” or something you think is REALLY GREAT!

BUT most of all — enjoy the Last Great Race® Iditarod!

Just spinning some de’tails,

Libby

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10 Comments

  1. Dear Meghan,
    Thanks for asking us why Iditarod is called “The Last Great Race on Earth”

    Posted by Libby on February 13, 2009 | Permalink

  2. Is Libby the lead dog?
    Libby is a K9 reporter not a race dog. You can read more about her by going to the blog and clicking on meet Libby on the left hand side of the page.

    Posted by Lawrence on March 4, 2009 | Permalink

  3. How much Races did you win?
    We are k9 reporters and we do not race. Some of us do run on recreational teams but do not race.

    Posted by Lawrence on March 4, 2009 | Permalink

  4. I am Learning about Huskies in school and the Iditarod Dog Race. Do you live nere Denali. My school is Saint Brigid School in Portland Maine. It is Cold Here Too. But not always.
    Hope your are enjoying learning about the race. thanks for writing.

    Posted by Lawrence on March 4, 2009 | Permalink

  5. your Dog is cute.your cloths are cute to.They look good on her.your team is cute.

    Posted by Emily on March 4, 2009 | Permalink

  6. how many times has jeff king won the race

    Posted by alex5 on March 5, 2009 | Permalink

  7. Do you live near Denali

    Posted by Lawrence on March 9, 2009 | Permalink

  8. your dog is really cute!

    Posted by zachary on March 16, 2009 | Permalink

  9. libby is very cute !!!!!!!!!!!!!! what type of husky is he? I think the way the iditorad got its name is cool I LOVE LIBBY

    Sincerly,
    Cesar

    Posted by Cesar on March 18, 2009 | Permalink

  10. The last great race is like the best name some people just right the big race that does not seem cool

    Posted by crystal on March 26, 2009 | Permalink

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