I'm not sure what possessed me, but sometime in the mid 1990's, I picked up a brochure about going on a sled dog trip in Alaska through Austin's Sled Dog Adventures. The trip was expensive and would require more time off than I could spare so it simply went in to my bucket list.
when I met Mike, now my husband, I asked him if this sounded like something he'd like to do - I suppose now it retrospect it was a sort of test - He answered to the affirmative and we made plans for the Iditarod trip in March 2010.
Austin's Sled Dog adventure is owned by Jerry Austin, 18 time finisher of the Last Great Race and charter Itidatod Hall of Fame member from St. Michael Alaska. When we arrived this March, it was clear to us that Jerry wasn't in great health. His daughter and son in law had taken over the operation of the business, but Jerry was center stage during our time in Nome for the finisher's banquet and regaled stories of his youth and mushing experiences during and after meals in his home.
One of the first things I remember about his home was the years of memorabilia that adorned the walls of his house. Awards and commendations and photographs were among the treasures. I can honestly say that Jerry Austin was one of the most interesting persons I have ever met. I'm honored to have known him and my heart is heavy learning of his recent death.
My sympathies go out to his wife, Clara and their children, grandchildren and all those who knew and loved Jerry.
Jerry's Hall of Fame profile
Article on Jerry's death
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