Pikes Peak 2 Nome
My name is Julie Nelson, and I am a Colorado native. I love Colorado. I have climbed several 14ers, ran numerous trails and foot races, and camped all over this beautiful state I call home.
Life for me has presented a few challenges as it does for all; I'm not any different than most, and my experiences have taught me that I am capable of doing whatever I set my mind to. However, what I want to achieve is different than most; to train for and compete in the Last Great Race on Earth - The Iditarod. It would be an honor and a privilege to represent Colorado in this unique way.
"The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race--or Iditarod, as it's more commonly called--is the pinnacle of distance dog-mushing. The last great race: the 1,100-mile Iditarod is Alaska's highest-profile event, and proof that the West inspires adventure like no other place in the country."
- The Free Dictionary
Why now? The time is right. I raised my kids the best I could - two fine men; my oldest son is a free-spirited mountaineer who started his own tree-cutting business in Alaska (yep, this is how I learned about the wonderful sport of mushing). My youngest son is a young man with a disability who is an amazing Special Olympic athlete, works full time and lives independently. My husband is dedicated to his teaching and coaching careers and will hold down the fort in my absence.
"You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending."
- C.S. Lewis
I have been in Alaska for over a 3 years now and settled in in the sled dog capital of the world - Willow, AK. I have handled dogs at 3 separate kennels where I have gained valuable knowledge and experience in the sport of mushing. As of December 2020, I am now on my own and moving forward to pursue my dream with my very own team. Mush on
