The countdown to the 2026 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race has begun, and the Burled Arch podcast returns for another season of nightly race coverage.

In this kickoff episode, hosts Robert and Michele Forto break down everything fans need to know before the ceremonial start. Broadcasting from Willow, Alaska, just miles from the official restart, the show dives into the field of 37 mushers, including defending champion Jessie Holmes, former champions Ryan Redington and Pete Kaiser, and a strong group of rookies entering the race.

The episode also explores a unique storyline this year: the introduction of expedition mushers, participants who travel the trail outside traditional competition while supporting charitable initiatives and contributing to the race purse.

You’ll also learn about the race format, checkpoints, trail conditions, nightly podcast coverage, listener participation, and new features for this year’s show as the team prepares to follow every mile of the nearly 1,000-mile journey to Nome.

If you want a front-row seat to the Last Great Race on Earth, this is where the trail begins.

In this episode:

1. Introduction to the 2026 Iditarod coverage on the Burled Arch
2. Race overview: 37 mushers, 14 rookies, and 3 past champions
3. Defending champion Jessie Holmes returns to defend his title
4. Late race entry by Pete Kaiser
5. Spotlight on promising rookie mushers
6. New expedition musher category and what it means for the race
7. Trail conditions across Alaska, including heavy snow on parts of the route
8. Details about the Iditarod banquet and ceremonial start
9. How listeners can participate with questions, voice messages, and trivia
10. What to expect from nightly race coverage through the finishers banquet

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