Fur Rondy Hosts World Championship Dog Races (2012)

Fourth Avenue full of excitement and sounds

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By Kirsten Swann

Story Created: Feb 27, 2012 at 11:35 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Feb 21, 2013 at 9:28 AM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - The 2012 Fur Rondy festival is in full swing, and if you've been downtown recently you've probably seen at least *some* of the activities. From snow sculpting to parades to art displays and antique shows, the sites of Rondy are all around.

The sounds of Rondy are, too.

If you were anywhere downtown around noon Sunday, you probably heard something a little out of the ordinary; it's the sound of the spirit of Rondy: dozens of dogs from across the United States awaiting the start of the World Championship Sled Dog Races.

In downtown Anchorage, you really could feel the excitement in the air. On the final day of the world championship sled dog competition, some of the race's biggest fans wait for the final countdown.

"For me, it's like, coming from the village and being able to race down the main street of anchorage is pretty cool," said driver John Erhart.

Jack Berry says driving the 25-mile trail through the heart of Anchorage is an annual ritual, something he looks forward to almost as much as his teammates.

At the starting line, hundreds of Alaskans braved the cloudy weather for a clear view of the street.

And when the teams finally cross the line to hit the trail, they're running on three days of speed and Fur Rondy spirit.

The race wrapped up with a musher's banquet and awards ceremony Sunday night.

Egil Ellis won first place; Ken Chezik came in second; and Arleigh Reynolds took third place.
 

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