Iron Dog Expedition Class 2023
Team 50
Team 51
Sponsors: K.E. Bergeron Mechanical Systems, KEBRT Leasing, Hatcher Pass Polaris, Polaris Industries Engineering, Bedard Brother’s Racing
Randy Bedard
Kim Bergeron
Age: 54 d From: Dublin, N.H.
Riding: Polaris Switchback Assault
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I’m a small-business owner who volunteers at the local, state and international level to foster and promote the sport of snowmobiling. My passion is getting people out on the snow. I like helping different user groups work together to find common ground so everyone can enjoy the outdoors. I live in New Hampshire and have property in Trapper Creek.
Personal sponsors: Special thanks to my personal support team including my wife of 25 years, Jennifer, son Jason and daughter Amanda. My family has supported my “adventures,” and I would not be the man I am without them. Thanks to Alaska friends Randy Bedard and Dan Bembenek who introduced me to Alaska and ride with me to this day on two wheels and snowmachine. Thank you to good friend JP Bernier for always “pushing me” a bit farther and being there when I need a pick-me-up. Thank you to all Iron Dog volunteers who put in countless hours to make the trail as safe as possible. Thank you, Hatcher Pass Polaris, Bergeron Mechanical Systems and Polaris Industries for your support.
Other race history: Expedition class finisher in 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022
Jean-Pierre Bernier
Age: 51 d From: Hancock, N.H.
Riding: Polaris Switchback Assault
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: Wilderness adventures were not a part of my early years; I was a city kid. After moving to northern New England, I began rock and ice climbing and mountaineering in my early 20s —traveling extensively for months at a time throughout North America to climb and hang from any mountain or cliff in my path. I developed my passion for motorsports a little later in life, in my late 30s. I am now an avid enduro dirt bike rider/racer who loves both the competition and the opportunity for time in the woods with friends. My wife would tell you that riding is a big part of what defines me. I have successfully completed two Expedition Class Iron Dog runs and am excited for my third! I am a proud father of two teenage boys. Our oldest son, Oscar (20), is currently enrolled as a student at SNHU. My son Harrison (18), is a high school senior and is deeply involved in soccer and tennis. My wife and I each own small businesses. I am the owner/ operator of a business providing logistical support for Amazon-based retailers. My brilliant wife of 23 years, Kristen, is a brand development consultant and executive coach. We both love our life together in the woods of New England. Personal sponsors: Klim, Red Barn Logistics, K.E. Bergeron Mechanical Systems, KEBRT Leasing, Hatcher Pass Polaris, Polaris Industries Engineering, Bedard Brother’s Racing Other race history: Completed two Expedition Class Iron Dogs, 2021-2022
Iron Dog trivia
What is today called the Expedition Class has also been known as the Trail Class and the Recreational Class during past Iron Dogs. For a short time, there once was even a third category, called the Trophy Class.
Age: 60 d From: Willow Riding: Polaris 650 INDY XCR 136
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I am a warrior of winter. My dad and uncle took my brother and I ice fishing with our new 1971 Polaris snowmachine way back when. I have not been ice fishing since. I have been employed in the snow industry since 1986 and smile every time I ride. I start my riding season on the first pile of snow and end my season when my skags are worn thin. I belong to a short list of riders that have collided with a moose – we both walked away. I now ride a bit more cautious at night in the spruce woods.
Personal sponsors: Thanks to all Iron Dog volunteers at the start line, check points, along the trail, and at the finish line! Special thanks to Bergeron Mechanical, KEBRT Leasing, Hatcher Pass Polaris, Polaris Industries Engineering, Bedard Brother’s Racing, Mike Bedard, Kim Bergeron family, Jim Huttemier, Klim, and my fellow Iron Dog brothers and sisters. Thank you, Polaris Industries, for their continued product improvement that allows us mature guys the ride, comfort and control we need to get to Nome. Thank you, family, friends, team members and my lovely girlfriend Dianne for all their love, encouragement and support.
Jim Huttemier
Age: 52 d From: Stillwater, Minn.
Riding: Polaris Indy XCR 136
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I am a senior engineering manager with a Medical Device Company. I grew up in Northern Minnesota with my hobbies focused on the outdoors. Many of the adventures continue to be in Alaska over the last 20-plus years. I have logged many miles riding snowmobiles in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Alaska. I am looking forward to my second run in the Iron Dog with good friends. Many of us participate in these events for adventure and to celebrate our health. Special thanks to all the volunteers who make this event a success each year.
Personal sponsors: Special thanks to my beautiful wife, Carolle, who along with my family and friends, enable me to participate successfully in these adventures. Special thanks to Bedard Bros. Racing, KEBRT Leasing, LLC, Polaris, Kim Bergeron and Hatcher Pass Polaris. Other race history: Expedition Class Finish in 2021
Russell Nelson
Age: 67 d From: Dillingham
Riding: Polaris 650 Assault Switchback
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born in Dillingham and grew up at a time when snowmachines were starting to replace dog teams. Our first family snowgo was a Snow Jet with a single cylinder motor and was much faster than Grandpa’s Arctic Cat with a 4-stroke motor then on the back. I raced snowgos at Beaver Round Up and won a cross-country race to Manokotak and back to Dillingham. My longest snogo ride is from Big Lake to Dillingham with four friends in 2010. I grew up fishing on my dad’s wood commercial salmon boat in Bristol Bay and now subsistence fish for salmon. I started flying airplanes in high school and still fly a Luscombe that I purchased with a cousin 35 years ago. I want to educate people on the value of the Bristol Bay Salmon
Sponsors: Polaris Industries, Bergeron Mechanical, Hatcher Pass Polaris Willow, KEBRT Leasing
fishery and the threat that the Pebble Mine Project is to the last great sockeye salmon run on the planet. As Chairman of the Board of the Bristol Bay Native Corp., I am proud of the corporations stand against the Pebble Mine Project.
Personal sponsors: Thanks to the support of my wife, Debi McLean, and Kim Bergeron I can complete a reoccurring dream of going down the Iron Dog trail to Nome. Old age and physical ability has taken my ability to be a competitive Pro Class racer. I wish the best for all who participate in the Iron Dog. And a special thanks to Todd Palin for helping me to achieve this goal.
Other race history: Dillingham Beaver Roundup race to Manakotak and back in the 1980s, first place; numerous Ice Oval and Snow Cross Races at the Lilly Pond in the 1980s.
Team 55
Sponsor: Valley Imaging Center
Craig Davis
Age: 49 d From: Wasilla
Riding: Polaris XCR 136
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I’ve lived in Alaska for eight years with my wife and two children. I first came up here temporarily with my job and fell in love with the rugged beauty I’ve seen here in Southcentral Alaska.
Now that I have an opportunity to run the Iron Dog, I’m excited to visit the places that most people only know about from maps.
Personal sponsors: Valley Imaging Alaska
Stan James
Age: 46 d From: Palmer
Riding: Ski-Doo MXZ NEO
Pro Class Status: Veteran
Race history: Pro Class finisher
Bio: I enjoy doing Iron dog because I have 5 women in my house and would go crazy in the winter without it.
Personal sponsors: Klim, Trail Tank, Stud Boy, CC Ski-Doo, Anchorage Imaging Center, McKinley Imaging Center
Other race history: Iron Dog Expedition Class finisher, 2013-14, 2016, 2018-19 and 2021
Joshua Roach
Age: 46 d From: Palmer
Riding: Ski-Doo XRS
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: My family and I are super thankful for the opportunity I have to be a part of the Iron Dog this year. Like a lot of kids growing up in Alaska, I have followed the race since it began, and so being able to participate this year is a highlight of my life.
Daniel Thomas
Age: 42 d From: Salt Lake City
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade X-RS
Pro Class Status: Veteran
Race history: 2022: Finished
Bio: I am a middle-aged man going through an adventure mid-life crisis. I love to heli-ski, sail and ride snowmachines. I am delightfully married to my bride of 19 years. I figured raising four daughters has been a breeze so why not take on the World’s Longest, Toughest Snowmobile Race. In 2021 I DNF as a pro racer in Shaktoolik, but 2022 was the year I achieved “Veteran” status. My fame only grew larger when in the winter of 2022 I was the proud winner of a free cheeseburger at the Skwentna Roadhouse for Stan James and I being the first riders of the year to get there. 2023 is a year of adventure on a different pace as an Expedition Class rider. I am looking forward to seeing
what I have ridden through the past two years but never seen.
Personal sponsors: I couldn’t ride without the support of the hottest Iron Dog wife and the four maidens. I think I ride with the endorsement of the Creator of Alaska but I guess I’ll find out February 15th who He is backing.
Other race history: Utah Yeti Rally Race Promoter
Team 57
Sponsors: Hatcher Pass Polaris , Eagle River Polaris/AC
Stephen Greene
Age: 45 d From: Anchorage Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade
Pro Class Status: Rookie Bio: I am originally from Canada but have lived in Alaska for five years. I really enjoy spending time with my amazing family, camping, hiking and snowmobiling.
Ken Harding
Age: 57 d From: Wasilla Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Veteran Race history: 2002: Finished seventh Bio: I enjoy the outdoors, snowmobiling mainly, also river boating, four-wheelers, hunting, fishing, pretty much all the Alaska stuff. I am looking forward to riding the trail with my daughter this year.
Personal sponsors: Hatcher Pass Polaris
Other race history: Pro Class: 2001, DNF; Expedition Class: 2010, 2013 Finished
Lani Harding
Age: 18 d From: Wasilla Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Rookie Bio: I am a born-and-raised Alaskan and love spending time outdoors with family and friends. I grew up around snowmachines and have always wanted to race the Iron Dog. I am blessed to have this opportunity and to be doing it with my biggest role model, my dad.
Personal sponsors: Dad
Jesse Greene
Age: 19 d From: Anchorage
Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Rookie Bio: I am a five-year Alaska resident. I enjoy camping, dirt-biking, and snowmachining with my friends and family during my free time.
Team 60
Sponsors: Klim Technical Riding Gear, Team CC Ski-Doo , Woody’s Traction Products, Grip N Rip, Rugged Radios
Tim Koerner
Age: 53 d From: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade XRS
Bio: I love to ride snowmobiles!
Personal sponsors: Koerner Furniture
Erik Painter
Age: 51 d From: Cooper Landing
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade X-RS
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I’m a lifelong Alaska, born and raised in Cooper Landing. I’ve been working in Prudhoe Bay for 28 years. I love all things Alaska, grew up spending my summers as a fishing and raft guide or on horseback in the mountains. Spent my winters terrorizing Cooper Landing and the mountains riding an elan anywhere it would take me.
Personal sponsors: My wife, Jodi, our family and friends, Koerner Furniture, Seacrets, Zugger Shocks, Fananys Farms, DEEZ Trees, E&J Rentals, Arctic Coast Customs, Forget Me Not Equine
Trevor Palaniuk
Age: 37 d From: Anchorage
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade XRS
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I’m a former slope worker, now working on rotation offshore in Trinidad. I’m an avid snowmachiner when I’m off. Recently married to my beautiful wife, Tori.
Personal sponsors: Koerner Furniture, Klim, Forget Me Not Equine, Rugged Radios, Grip N Rip, Zugger Shocks, Franny’s Farm
Team 63
Sponsors: None listed
Jerry Conlon
Age: 59 d From: Fairbanks
Riding: Polaris Maytrix Cross Country
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born in Bemidji, Minn. Our family has had snowmachines as far back as I can remember. We would go on family rides with parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and lots of friends. When the kids were born, we would bundle them up, slip them inside our jackets and head to the cabin. They were probably about 3 years old when they started riding by themselves. Most of my riding has been backcountry to the cabins, and mountain riding. I would like to thank my girlfriend of 18 years, Shannon Winner; together we have six kids, five grandkids and 1 more due in June 2023. We all love the outdoors hunting, fishing, camping, snow machining, and four-wheeling.
Personal sponsors: Shannon Winner (AKA Sugar Momma), Troy Conlon, Team Barber
Tanner Conlon
Age: 35 d From: Fairbanks
Riding: Polaris Matryx Cross Country
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born and raised in Alaska. I enjoy spending my time with my wife and two daughters hunting fishing and being at our cabin. My riding background is more of the adventure and freight-hauling type rather than racing. I’m excited to see what this long-distance adventure will bring.
Personal sponsors: Troy Conlon, Team Barber Racing
Team 69
Sponsors: Tri-state Disposal
Tommy Germany
Age: 66 d From: Palos Heights, Ill.
Riding: Ski-Doo Competition
Pro Class Status: Veteran
Race history: 2018: Finished, 2022: Finished
Bio: I have been riding a snowmobile since I was 13 years old. I especially enjoy cross-country riding in the peninsula of Michigan. After finishing the 2018 Pro Class I said I would never do it again. I came back in 2020 for the Expedition run and scratched. In 2022 ran in the Pro Class finishing last. The race camaraderie and energy keep drawing me back.
Personal sponsors: Sheryl (my wife), Jeff and Erica (son and daughter-in-law), many friends and one special one, Israel Hale.
Paul Sanfilippo
Age: 28 d From: Frankfort, Ill.
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade Competition
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: Born and raised in Frankfort, I currently live in the Indianapolis area and work in the commercial construction industry. I have been riding snowmobiles for as long as I can remember – from riding piggyback on the front of my dad’s sled as a kid, to cross-country trail riding in northern Wisconsin. Snowmobiling has always been a passion of mine. I’m extremely excited to partake in this year’s Iron Dog.
Personal sponsors: My close friends and family with special thanks to my teammate, Tommy Germany, for mentoring and encouraging me partake in the race. Thank you to everyone who has donated and been supportive of my endeavor.
Bob Streiff
Age: 51 d From: Trego, Wis.
Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I am employed by RPS Constuction, a custom homebuilder in Northern Wisconsin. I am married to a wonderful, compassionate, and understanding woman. We have two awesome children together. As a family, we enjoy the outdoors, fishing, hunting, camping, UTVs and motorcycles. My passion personally is snowmobiles. I still have my first sled, a 1971 Kitty Cat. Wintertime for us includes logging many miles on our sleds including destination rides with overnight stays.
Personal sponsors: A big, big shout-out to Bruce Olson and his family! I would not be participating in the Iron Dog 2023 event if it wasn’t for Bruce and his brother David. I would like to thank Tommy Germany as well for inviting me into Team 69. Looking forward to riding with Tommy and teammates. A special thanks to Brian Smith and Doug Meyers of RPS Construction. These guys are making it possible for me to spend most of February in Alaska! And finally, thanks to my wife, Wendy, son Chase, and daughter Jayden for the all the support and drive to push myself.
Other race history: King of the Lake Racer 1992-2000
Dan Zimmerman
Age: 58 d From: Nisswa. Minn.
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade X ID
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I’m self-employed with a marine boat storage business in the god’s country of Minnesota. I’m an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting, fishing and racing motor sports, including motocross
and snowmobiles, starting at a very young age. In 2022, I saw the ultimate race with the Iron Dog pro class. Unfortunately, a mechanical failure forced Team 38 Stoll / Zimmerman to scratch on the Yukon River. 2023 will bring another challenge by finishing four drivers with Team 69. Go CMF Racing!!!
Personal sponsors: Thanks to all the support from friends, family and sponsors. Bless you all! TOBE Outerware, G Boost Drive Belts, Northern Shores Boat Storage, Brainerd Recreational Supply, Snow Studs Traction, Team CC
Other race history: Heartland Racing Association 1985-1995; I-500 Thunder Bay, Ontario / Minneapolis, Minn., 1987-1992 three Top-10 finishes; 2022 Iron Dog participant, DNF
Team 73
Sponsors: Pollux Aviation Ltd., C&A Pro Skis, Klim
Jake Maxwell
Age: 36 d From: Anchorage
Riding: Ski-Doo Expedition Xtreme
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: Jake is a lifelong Alaskan, born and raised in Anchorage, and has been riding snowmachines since a kid. His wife, Alyse, and Jake have twin sons, Clark and Lewis. Jake has spent the past 18 years working as a land surveyor traveling all across Alaska. When he is not working or on snowmachines, he enjoys mountain bikes, jet boats and motorcycles. Jake looks forward to completing the expedition class with his father Sam, who is an Iron Dog veteran.
Sam Maxwell
Age: 65 d From: Anchorage
Riding: Ski-Doo Expedition
Pro Class Status: Veteran Race history: 2000: Finished Bio: My wife, Theresa, and I, along with our four children and six grandchildren are all lifelong Alaskans. I have been involved with the Iron Dog and Iditarod for many years. I flew fuel and supplies for Iron Dog in the ‘90s and ran in the race in 2000. I rode in the first ever race to Nome, The “Top of The World 1,000” (also called the Nenana to Nome race) with my dad in 1973. Now, 50 years later, I am riding to Nome with my son, Jake. We are all very fortunate to live in the great state of Alaska.
Ambassador Team 77
Sponsors: Polaris Industries, Klim, 907 Alaska Safe Riders, Avalanche Alliance
Roger Brown
Age: 44 d From: North Pole
Riding: Polaris Pro Star S4
Pro Class Status: Veteran
Race history: 2013: Finished, 2022: Finished Bio: Roger loves spending time with his beautiful wife, Megan, and their three awesome children Emily, Aly and Alan. Roger is looking forward to visiting with the hard-working volunteers and communities along the trail. This year’s Iron Dog Ambassador Team will focus on spreading the word about snow safety and they are excited about helping the Iron Dog Helmet Safety Program give away more than 200 helmets while doing so.
Personal sponsors: Klim, Polaris, Zbroz Racing, Starting Line Products, Ice Age Performance, Specialty Truck and Auto, Fine Line Interiors, Carlile Transportation, Northern Air Cargo, Capstone Clinic, Pioneer Peak Orthopedics, Valley Imaging Center, Hatcher Pass Polaris, Outpost Alaska, 907 Safe Riders, Lead Dog Helmet Lights, Sled Solutions
Mike Buck
Age: 68 d From: Palmer
Riding: Polaris Cross Country
Pro Class Status: Veteran
Race history: Bio: Moved to Valdez in 1978 and learned to ride with the Chaffin boys, Gene Winn and Mike Eder and some other crusty old mountain men. I’ve been teaching backcountry safety classes for 35 years in Alaska. I became an Iron Dog safety rider way back in 1990 and presently am Alaska Safe Riders director, working alongside a rock star board of directors.
Personal sponsors: Eagle River Polaris, Alaska Safe Riders
Kellin Geisler
Age: 35 d From: Cohasset, Minn.
Riding: Polaris ProStar S4 INDY Adventure 137
Status: Rookie
Bio: I grew up in Grand Rapids, Minn., enjoying the outdoors and powersports. I’ve worked at Polaris Industries in Roseau, Minn., for just under 10 years, currently working with the Snowmobile Team. Snowmobiling is a passion outside of work with racing cross country in the classic class, ditch/trail riding, and mountain riding.
Personal sponsor: Polaris Industries
Leon Huot
Age: 42 d From: Roseau, Minn.
Riding: Polaris ProStar S4 INDY Adventure 137
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I have been a powersports and outdoors enthusiast my whole life. If it has wheels, tracks or propellers, I know there is fun to be had! I’ve worked at Polaris Industries for the past 10 years in the Powertrain Group. I’ve been married to my beautiful wife, Kristi, for 13 years and we have three daughters, Addie (10), Ivy (7) and Ruby (5). We love our outdoor family adventures like off-road riding, snowmobiling, boating, camping and hunting. Snowmobiling is one of my great passions. I love riding in the mountains, rough ditch and cross country. Enduro and point-to-point races are such an awesome test of man and machine, and the Iron Dog is the top snowmobile endurance race. I am grateful to Polaris for this opportunity and excited to be riding the new S4 Indy!
Personal sponsors: Polaris Industries, Polaris Lubricants, my family and friends
Kris Kaltenbacher
Age: 50 d From: Reno, Nev.
Riding: Polaris Matryx
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I grew up in Dillingham and moved to Reno to go to college. I got married, bought a home, had two boys and made a life here in Nevada. I was a basketball coach for 12 years for my boys in their traveling ball clubs, and their middle school coach. I’ve been sledding for about 40 years. I got big into the film industry where I become a big part of Boondockers Movies for the last 15 years, also been in the Crazy Canadian films, 509 video, Team Summit for three years. I’ve been featured in SledHeads magazine, have a number of great sponsors and now have the opportunity to be in the greatest sled race.
Personal sponsors: My wife, Tracy Kaltenbacher, sons Karson and Kohen, dad Kent Kaltenbacher, stepmom Susie Kaltenbacher; and in loving memory of my mom, Debi K. Newton. Also, Klim, Vohk, Zbroz, Starting Line Products, IceAge, Arctic FX Graphics, Truckboss, Oxbow, Sledsolutions , Snowbigdeal, 2coolairvents, Alpine Motor Sports, Mountain Valley Machine, The Bearded Craftsman U.S.
Dustin Pancheri
Age: 45 d From: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I started working in the snowmobile industry at the age of 15 years old and have never left. I spent 18 years working for Starting Line Products and have been with KLIM for 9 years. I love making things go faster and being in the mountains.
Personal sponsors: Klim, Arctic FX, Polaris, SLP, Walker Evans, Apex Cleaning and Restoration
Other race history: Two-time Jackson Hole Non-Pro Master World Champion, 2021, 2022; West Yellowstone Snow Drags 700 Imp & 800 Imp Champion, 2011
Team 78
Sponsors: Alaska Leather, Professional and Technical Services, Inc., MAC Federal Credit Union, 907 Surplus, Hometown Lenders, Finishing Edge Concrete, AK Chiropractic, Rally AK, Danchini Aero LLC, Alaska Auto Evolution
Jeremiah Brewington
Age:46 d From: Wasilla
Riding: Polaris Cross Country
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Race history: 2022: Finished Iron Dog Expedition Class
Bio: Jeremiah is an Alaskan born- and raised- U.S. Army combat veteran. His personal goal is to show other disabled veterans that they can still get out and do things. They can have a team and a mission in life again, post military service. Disabled veterans do not have to accept the stigma that they can no longer get out and accomplish goals. He believes that other veterans will see the team succeed and realize that they too can be successful in any endeavor they wish to pursue. Jeremiah is a proud pro-staff for the nonprofit veteran organization, Battle Dawgs, and hosts a monthly Peer Support Group Meeting for veterans funded by the Wounded Warrior Project.
Personal sponsors: Bambi Brewington, Junior Daniel, Marty Rhett, Josh Seagrave, Battle Dawgs
Other Race History: Expedition Class finisher
James Chopik
Age: 45 d From: Wasilla
Riding: Polaris 600 Cross Country Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: James Chopik is a U.S. Air Force veteran who grew up in Naples, N.Y. During his youth, he enjoyed the outdoors, fishing through the year, hunting in the fall, and skiing in the winter. In 1996 he joined the U.S Air Force where he was involved in multiple deployments throughout multiple countries to include combat tours, where he was assigned to the U.S Army. He retired in 2016 with his family in Wasilla after serving for 20 years. James and his family have lived in Wasilla for 12 years where they enjoy all the wonderful adventures Alaska has to offer. When not enjoying these activities with his family, he continues to enjoy the outdoors just as he did in his youth; however now he has added backcountry snowmachine riding to his background for more than a decade.
Trent White
Age: 40 d From: Wasilla
Riding: Polaris Indy 650 XCR
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I moved to Alaska in 2015, where I began my career as a construction manager/field engineer. I served six years in the Army. I am a Pro Staff member of a nonprofit organization called Battle
Dawgs. I am racing as part of Operation Iron Warrior to help veterans with disabilities get out on snowmachines and to show them that even with disabilities you can achieve your goals if you set your mind to them. Our ultimate goal for Operation Iron Warrior is to get veterans out on snowmachines and ultimately to race in the Iron Dog in years to come.
Personal sponsors: Jaimie White and Mike and Joyce Haug Jessy Lakin, Battle Dawgs, and PTS, Inc.
Team 80
Sponsors: Polaris Industries, Polaris Racing, Three Bears Alaska Inc., KLIM, Stud Boy Traction, Walker Evans Racing
Darrin Kelly
Age: 59 d From: Wasilla
Riding: Polaris XCR
Pr Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born and raised north of Seattle, where I lived for most of my life, and met my wife. Since 1990, we have traveled to various parts of Alaska to visit her family. In 2014, she and I made the decision to move here, so she could join the family company. I retired from the fire service after 36 years in 2016. Since moving here, I have enthusiastically enjoyed all the outdoor activities Alaska has to offer. I have participated in snowmachining in the winter to four-wheeling, hunting and fishing in the summer. My nephew has participated in the Iron Dog several times before and has motivated me to ride in the Exhibition Class this year. I am looking forward to the experience.
Jason Sanford
Age: 50 d From Tok Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born and raised in Alaska. I enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting and boating. I have been riding snowmachines for most of my life. I really started following the Iron Dog when my nephew, Zack Weisz, started racing in the Pro Class. I am looking forward to running the Expedition Class this year with three of my brothers-in-law, Dave, Darrin, Larry, and nephew Zack. Hoping for a safe, memorable and fun trip to Nome!
David A Weisz
Age: 60 d From: Wasilla
Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I have lived in Alaska for over 40 years and have ridden for many of those years. I’ve been following the Iron Dog Race for quite some time, and then my son Zack started racing the Iron Dog, it then became one of my Bucket List items to complete. I enjoy my free time outdoors, hunting, fishing and riding with family and friends. I look forward to meeting new folks along the way.
Personal sponsors: I’d like to thank my wife and family, and Kim Bergeron.
Larry Weisz
Age: 55 d From: Tok
Riding: Polaris
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I’m from Tok, and I have been an avid snowmachine rider since I was a kid. I never had the opportunity to race in a big event like the Iron Dog when I was younger, but now that I can, I’m taking it.
Zack Weisz
Age: 29 d From: Wasilla
Riding: Polaris Cross Country
Pro Class Status: Veteran
Race history: 2018: Finished 11th as top rookie team, 2019: Finished fourth, 2020: Finished third, 2021: Finished fifth, 2022: Finished fifth
Bio: Zack is a lifelong Alaskan living in Wasilla. He works for Three Bears Alaska and is a third-generation worker. Zack enjoys the vast outdoors Alaska has to offer. You can find him having fun with friends or enjoying time with family.
Personal sponsors: Three Bears Alaska Inc., Polaris Industries, Hatcher Pass Polaris, and I would like to give a big thanks to my parents and all my friends and family.
Other race history: 2017 Big Lake 500, first; 2015 Arctic Man XC, first; 2014 Mayor’s Cup, first semipro; 2014 Ayleska Motor Maddness XC, first
Team 84
Sponsors: Woody’s Traction, KLIM, Alaska Mining & Diving Supply (AMDS), Zugger Shocks, Tara Barndt-Residential Mortgage
Dylan Barndt
Age: 18 d From: Eagle River
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade XRS
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born and raised in Alaska. I grew up around riding and racing snowmachines my whole life, from weekend runs to the cabin with family to spur of the moment rides up the river. I’ve participated in the Skwentna 200 for a few years now. I am currently attending college in Kenai, studying Process Technology. I would like to thank everyone for their support getting to here and especially my race partner/father James.
Personal sponsors: A big thanks to my mom and dad, sister, grandparents, aunts and uncles; as well as The Iron Dog and the volunteers for making this race happen. Zugger Shocks, JB Welding Services, Woody’s Traction, AMDS, Hilcorp AK, Tara Barndt Residential Mortgage
Other race history: Semipro Skwentna 200: 2021, second; 2022, second
James Barndt
Age: 51 d From: Eagle River
Riding: Ski-Doo X-RS Competition
Pro Class Status: Veteran
Race history: 1999: Finished
Bio: I have lived in Alaska over 44 years, enjoy outdoor activities and anything motorsports-related. I am looking forward to experiencing the race with my son Dylan and want to thank my wife, Tara, daughter Sydnee, as well as all my family and friends who have helped support this adventure.
Personal sponsors: AMDS, Zugger Shocks, Woody’s Traction, Klim, Hilcorp Ak, Tara Barndt Residential Mortgage, JB Welding Services.
Team 88
Sponsors: Arctic Cat, Country Cat, Klim
Nicholas Harrington
Age: 35 d From: Frankford, Del.
Riding: Ski-Doo Renegade XRS-Comp
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born in upstate New York (not the city). I now live in Delaware with my family, where I have been a police officer for 10 years. I love anything that has to do with the outdoors, and I enjoy being
around anything that has a motor. As a child, I was fascinated with Alaska, and my first trip to Alaska was for the 2022 Iron Dog race (support member for Team 93). So, this is all Scott Campbell’s and Rebecca Charles’ fault. I also want to give my teammates, Mike Telkamp, Brian Jurenka and Dave Schreier, a huge thank-you for bringing me along for the ride.
Personal sponsors: Special thankyou to Mrs. Jackie Laucirica, Scott Campbell (Campbell Insurance), CrossFit Slower Lower, Grip N Rip, Blue Tech LLC., Woody’s Traction, RPM Composites, my friends and my family.
Brian Jurenka
Age: 40 d From: Eagle River
Riding: Polaris XCR
Pro Class Status: Veteran Race history: 2013: DNF, 2015: Finished Bio: Brian is a 27-year resident of Alaska. He works as a mechanic on the North Slope. When not working, he enjoys being a fulltime dad to his son, William. He also enjoys hiking, hunting, fishing, playing hockey and working around the house. This will be his sixth trip to Nome with Iron Dog.
Personal sponsors: Laura, William and family
Other race history: 2012 and 2021, 2022 Expedition Class, GCI Arctic Man Classic 2014 Men’s Adaptive ski fourth place, 2013 Men’s Adaptive ski fourth place, 2005 Men’s Snowboard fifth place. Alaska Moto Mushers Club semi-pro sno-cross series, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009. Alaska Moto Mushers Club cross-country race series semi-pro 50–200-mile races 2003-2015. Valdez Mayors Cup cross-country race semi-pro 150 miles, 2003-2018
David Schreier
Age: 51 d From: Avoca, Minn. Riding: Arctic Cat ZR6000 R-XC
Pro Class Status: Rookie Bio: I grew up on a farm near Avoca, Minn., and went to work for John Deere dealerships from 1992 to 2021. I helped on the family farm since a young age and have since started partnership farming with dad full time, with the help of family and friends. I have been married to my wife, Denise, since 1992. When not farming, we enjoy riding our Harley and taking our side by side out for rides.
Personal sponsors: Klim, Grip N Rip Other race history: 2022: Finished Iron Dog Expedition Class
Mike Telkamp
Age: 53 d From: Hoffman, Minn. Riding: Arctic Cat ZR6000XC
Pro Class Status: Veteran Race history: 2017: Finished Bio: I was born and raised in Hoffman and have owned and operated my family farm for 33 years. I’ve been married to my wife, Kris, since 1992. We have two sons, Trevor and wife Madison, and granddaughter Cassidy; and Trenton and Bridget. When the farming gives us some time off you will find the family fishing, hunting, skiing or snowmobiling. In 2014, I decided to participate in a new challenge the Iron Dog Trail Class (typically you find me in the mountains snowmobiling) and I was excited to see Alaska for the first time. Since then, I’ve made many great friends and been back multiple times. In 2015, I did the trail class, 2016 rode the pro class with Dieter Strobel, but due to motor trouble, we scratched in Nome. Then in 2017, I finished the pro class with my partner Paul Johnson. In 2020, I did the Expedition class with Charlie Potter and Brian Jurenka and again last year with Brian Jurenka and David Schreier. Alaska has been a part of my life for many years now and it’s been a great experience with many new friends made along the way.
Personal sponsors: Thank you to my wife, Kris, as well as my family and friends. The encouragement and support from everyone is appreciated.
Other race history: 2014 Iron Dog Trail Class finisher with a team of seven. 2015 Iron Dog Trail Class finisher, 2020 Iron Dog Expedition Class finisher
Team 92
Sponsors: None listed
Joseph Everhart
Age: 54 d From: Anchorage
Riding: Ski-Doo Lynx Brutal
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: Joe Everhart grew up in Spokane, Wash., but has lived in Alaska for 32 years. He loves hunting, fishing, snowmachining, side-by-side riding, and all things outdoors. He and his wife will be relocating from Anchorage to Horseshoe Lake in the summer of 2023. He has been riding snowmachines for 25 years and this will be his first Iron Dog experience. One more item off the bucket list!
Darren Franz
Age: 55 d From: Anchorage
Riding: Ski-Doo Expedition
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I moved to from Spokane, Wash., to Alaska 30 years ago to pursue a career in banking. I have worked in banking all that time having lived in Kodiak, Fairbanks and Anchorage during that time.
Dave Jarrett
Age: 47 d From: Anchorage
Riding: Ski-Doo Expedition
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: Dave is a 23-year Alaskan who is originally from Utah. He loves fishing, hunting, motor sports and spending time at the lake with his family.
Personal sponsors: Great Harvest Bread Company, and my kids’ inheritance.
Cody Preuett
Age: 32 d From: North Pole
Riding: Ski-Doo Expedition Pro Status: Rookie
Bio: I have lived in North Pole for 17 years now.
Personal sponsors: Western Mechanical, Inc.
Team 99
Sponsors
Trent Johnson
Age: 42 d From: Hayward, Wis.
Riding: Polaris Cross Country
Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born and raised in Wisconsin. I played hockey for 18 years. I’ve been snowmobiling since the age of 5. I own my own construction and general contracting business in Hayward.
I personally put on at least 3,000 miles a year, if not more, and enjoy fishing and hunting as my other hobbies. I am married to April Johnson, and we have two sons, Jarrod and Addison.
Personal sponsors: David and Melissa Wagner, Anglers Bar and Grill, Anglers Haven Resort, Trails End Resort, Stone Lake Pub, Wayside Bar and Grill, TNTs Sports Bar, Steakhouse Lodge, Sno-Trails Snowmobile Club, Tim and Roz Peterson, Diane Sommerfeld
Rico Rossi
Age: 46 d From: Big Lake
Riding: Polaris Cross Country Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: Originally from a small farm town in Northern California, I’m a country boy who enjoys everything outdoors. During high school, I was an accomplished track and field athlete, competing in the Junior Olympics. After high school I joined the U.S. Marine Corps and attended the University of California, Davis. Before moving to Alaska, I worked as a barber, a radio DJ, a respiratory healthcare worker and music producer. The love of the outdoors brought me to Alaska in 2017 and I haven’t looked back since. Being a father is my proudest accomplishment in my life, and I strive every day to be a man my children can be proud of.
Personal sponsors: Salon Demetri, Delta Breeze Labradoodles, Leangria
Cole Sabin
Age: 31 d From: Hayward, Wis.
Riding: Polaris Cross Country Pro Class Status: Rookie
Bio: I was born and raised in Hayward. The Hayward area has been listed on Top 10s for best places to ride the Lower 48. Having one older brother, and parents who love snowmobiling, riding was instilled in me from a very young age. Shane and I spent many winters riding our dad’s 340 Arctic Cat Panther he had gotten for us! Twenty-nine years of passion for riding and the sport is what has gotten me to Iron Dog, I have dreamed of running the Iron Dog race ever since I heard of it some 10 years ago. A typical riding season for me is 2,500 to 5,000 miles. Personal sponsors: Anglers Bar and Grill, Tim and Roz Peterson, Diane Sommerfield, April Johnson, Dani Sabin, Pat and Billie Jo Sabin, Bruce and Nancy Knight, Ken and Nicole Vessel, David and Melissa Wagner, Anglers Haven, Trails End Resort, Stone Lake Pub, Wayside Bar & Grill, TNT’s Sports Bar, Steakhouse Lodge, Sno Trails Snowmobile Club
FREQUENTLY ASKED IRON DOG QUESTIONs
The most frequently asked question is without a doubt, “Who grooms the trail?” This shows the common lack of understanding. Only the entrance to the race is groomed. Sometimes there is no trail. Sometimes the race course has been changed to avoid open water on some of the warmer years.
Another question is, “What’s the difference between a rookie and a veteran?” Unlike many other sports and races, the Iron Dog maintains a long-standing tradition of giving “Rookie” status to all racers who have never FINISHED the Pro Class race. Veteran status is only given to a person who has successfully completed the Pro Class race by crossing the finish line.
— See more FAQs at www.irondog.org/about/faqs
: All American Hero’s Foundation, Polaris Racing Lubricants, Klim, Iron Dog Team 11, Tope Transportation, Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows, Up North Retreats, Hayward Power Sports, Petits Outdoor Rental, Trent Johnson Construction LLC, Sabin Landscaping and Design, Route 63 Realty
April Johnson, Pat and Billie Jo Sabin, Bruce and Nancy Knight, Ken and Nicole Vessel, Heartland Electric, Bates Plumbing, Broad Leaf Sawmill, Butterfield, Inc., Nelson Lumber and Home
