The world’s longest snowmachine race has a new executive director at the helm. Iron Dog, Inc., announced early last month (October 3) that John Woodbury is now leading the organization.

A lifelong Alaskan, Woodbury has been connected with the race since its start in 1984. After following the race in its early days, he also covered the event as a member of the media pool, both on the trail and in the air. In the October 3 press release, he noted his appreciation for community members and friends at each checkpoint.

Woodbury says he aims to “build on a passionate support base” and work closely with the board of directors. The board voted in August (Aug. 21) to hold the 2019 race after concerns of limited funding and loss of sponsors.

Pro and trail class registration for the 2019 race closed on October 31.

The 36th Iron Dog begins in Big Lake on February 17, 2019.

Image at top: file photo: Tyler Aklestad and Tyson Johnson arrive in Nome, the Iron Dog halfway point, during the 2017 race. Photo courtesy of Matthew McGee.