Iron Dog Race is committed to being more than just a race, we want to be part of the communities that support our race and racers! Our programs and impacts extend far beyond racing and riding in Alaska.

Helmet Safety Program

The Iron Dog Helmet Awareness Program was established in 2020. The program provides helmets at no charge to youth in rural communities, ensuring they have adequate, fitting head protection year-round for power sports activities. Over 2,300 helmets have been donated to date during the Iron Dog race. In 2025 (2024/25) 500 additional helmets will be distributed.

Continue reading about the impacts of our Helmet Safety Program on our news releases:

2022: https://www.irondog.org/news/iron-dog-helmet-saves-the-day
2024: https://www.irondog.org/news/saved-by-the-helmet-talkeetna-youths-story-underscores-safety-message

Volunteers organizing helmets for distribution.

South Anchorage Media Support

For over 10 years the South Anchorage High Media Team has been bringing live stream action of the Iron Dog Race to fans all over the world! They are at tech, the start, in Nome for half way events and at the finish and banquet - covering it ALL! Not only are the students fine tuning their media skills but they are seeing parts of our state that many never get to. Each year Iron Dog Race Inc. donates a scholarship to one student from the team as well as provides all transportation, lodging and meals during the event. Additionally each year Iron Dog Race Inc. provides financial support to upgrade media equipment.

South Anchorage High School Media Crew in Nome, Alaska (2024)

Behind the scenes of the media equipment and team that make live streaming possible in the remote town of Nome, Alaska (2024)

Kids Don’t Float

In 2024, Iron Dog Race Inc. partnered with several local organizations to purchase and make available life jackets for kids. 175 life vests were sent to Iron Dog communities including: Nikolai, McGrath, Galena, Nome and Kotzebue. They were also made available at the Little Susitna River, Deshka River, Meadow Lake and Seymore Lake.

Iron Dog Racer George “Radar” Lambert distributing life jackets for Kids in Kotzebue, Alaska.

Make it Run - NEW in 2024

The MIR Program is set forth to assist in the development of personnel in the trade of small engine and recreational vehicle repairs. Iron Dog Race Inc. has partnered with major companies to bring this to life in the future with support from engineers, local teachers, and service providers. With public donations of snowmachines, 4-wheelers and UTV’s to be used as learning tools in the classroom. Iron Dog Race supports the donations with a reasonable 501C3 receipt of the unit to the donor as a tax deduction for them. In addition to providing educational opportunities, these donations will assist in the reduction and cleanup of these units ending up in the landfills as waste.