Hi there!

My name’s Sam Martin, and I’ll be running Iditarod 54 in 2026 — and I couldn’t be more excited to hit the trail!

I’m originally from Chelmsford Massachusetts, but Alaska has had its hooks in me for almost ten years now. I first got into sled dogs back in 2016, right after high school, while working summers in Skagway and Juneau, Alaska — and I was instantly hooked. That first summer turned into a continuous passion with the trail, the dogs, and the adventure that comes with it.

These days I’m lucky enough to train and race out of Matt and Liz Failor’s 17th Dog Kennel in Willow, Alaska — the same kennel I’ll be running out of for the 2026 Iditarod.

I’m extremely grateful to Matt and Liz for not only letting me run our Husky friends in this race but also for generously helping with expenses along the way. I couldn’t be more thankful for their support.

This season I’ll be competing in a few mid-distance races (200- and 300-milers) as tune-ups before the big one in March.

As much time and heart as this takes, it’s also no secret that dog mushing can get pretty expensive. Every donation goes directly toward helping my team of 16 happy Alaskan Huskies and me reach the Burled Arch in Nome.

Thanks for following along — see you on the trail!