A Brother’s Love
When Israel and Joseph Hale set out on the 2020 Recreational Class Iron Dog on Feb. 13, 2020, the two brothers will push their limits. Yes, they know that the Recreational Class is not a race, but they’re still going to go fast and try to finish first. They are considering it a dry run for the real thing.
“I think it would be a real motivation to win,” said older brother Joseph, 43. “We know a ton about snowmachining and not a ton about racing, so this is a good place to start.”
If all goes well, the two brothers from a close-knit family will toe the line in 2021 as Pro Class competitors – and history makers. Since its inception in 1984, no amputee has ever competed in the Iron Dog — much less a double amputee without prosthetics.
Israel Hale lost both of his legs above the knees following an accident in September 2012. After picking up building supplies in Anchorage, he and his wife, Cori, stopped on the side of the road to adjust his heavily loaded trailer. As he was inspecting it, another driver crashed into him, essentially severing Hale’s legs upon impact. That moment changed his life forever.
“In the hospital, to my wife, the first words out of my mouth were, ‘Don’t worry about it, I’ll figure out how to walk; as long as I’m not paralyzed,’ ” Israel said.
That was more than seven years ago, and Hale has done just that. Not only does he manage to get around on short prosthetics he calls “stubbies,” he also owns a tool repair and sled/ATV rental business, is raising two small children, and training for a 1,000-plus-mile snowmachine expedition that would challenge even the most able-bodied of riders.
“If I did have legs, I’d already be running the Iron Dog (race); I think I’d be in the top 10,” said Israel, 33, who despite his loss of limbs remains an athletic, self-professed highly competitive man. Barrel-chested with oak-tree biceps and forearms the size of most people’s legs, it is clear he has accommodated his new reality. He relies on his upper body strength to keep himself on his sled, and adjusts his hand and arm positioning to absorb the shock of a fast-moving machine over less-than-forgiving terrain. After long rides on the sled, Israel’s back and shoulders scream from the added strain, he said, but he’s learned to adapt, and thrive.
“My biggest challenge is going to be staying warm,” Israel said. “Because of the lack of circulation, I basically have to heat my seat to stay warm enough.”
Unlike most riders, who can stand on their sled as they travel and move around as needed to stay warm or adjust the sled’s direction, Israel uses only his arms and hands to hold onto the sled and his thighs to grip the seat, like a rider on a horse. On the trail, he doesn’t use his stubbies, which exacerbate the cold and wouldn’t reach to the running boards anyway. Because he can’t stand on his sled, or adjust his body to rise out of the seat at all, he gets cold more quickly and loses circulation faster.
“From wool to heated pants and different layers of equipment, I think I pretty much have it down, but I’ll be paying attention to that,” he added.
Iron Dog executive director John Woodbury said the Hale brothers’ entry in this year’s recreational class will highlight just how tough one must be – no matter his or her physical challenges – to complete the course.
“The Hale brothers’ trip up the Rec Class trail is going to be one to watch,” Woodbury said. “That route is full of obstacles, but none are as daunting as the ones Israel has already faced – and overcome – in his life.
“I think he and his capable crew exemplify the tenacious spirit of Iron Dog,” Woodbury added. “Israel is a driven man who has proven himself in many endeavors. The board reviewed his application, made some pointed inquiries, then did not hesitate to approve him and his team.”
Iron Dog veteran Stan James echoes the board’s sentiments. A four-time Pro Class racer, James has seen his share of challenges, and this year is mentoring the Hales so they know what to expect on the trail.
“With Israel’s background, wow, it’s going to be extra special,” said James, who is taking a break from the Pro Class this year to also ride in the Recreational Class. “I’m very excited to help them because I just love to see their faces, how excited they are for it. … I would say without a doubt they will finish this year, barring any mechanical failures, which can happen to anybody.”
The Hale family grew up on a remote parcel of land, off the grid outside of McCarthy, and they learned early on how to be comfortable and competent in the wilderness. Israel jokes that he never relied on a GPS growing up, but on the Iron Dog trail will be required to have it. In many ways, being on the Iron Dog course will not be all that daunting for men whose self-sufficient upbringing is so strong.
“We grew up in the outdoors, it’s what we know and are comfortable with,” Joseph said. “As a result, all my siblings are really strong, and Israel’s really, really strong. There’s a lot of stamina built into our bodies.”
Still, he added, he is taking the risks seriously and not underestimating the unpredictability of the Iron Dog trail.
“Honestly the biggest risk he takes is getting stuck in the water – he can swim, but it’s not easy, so we will probably be going around water at all costs,” Joseph said. “Still, I feel like Israel is really capable to take care of himself; he just needed someone he can trust to see him through. We make a good team because we are family.”
James said he expects the brothers will make a good team. While Joseph may feel a responsibility to keep his younger brother safe, James said the real challenge might be convincing Israel to take it slow.
“That guy’s incredible,” James said of Israel. “He’ll reach down and grab a snowmachine ski and pick it up off the ground. He’s that strong.”
Woodbury, with Iron Dog, said there are countless supporters who will be cheering the Hales on come Feb. 13. He, for one, will be one of the loudest in the crowd.
“Israel will certainly be surrounded by qualified riders, including a cadre of Iron Dog veterans, in case there are some issues along the trail,” Woodbury said. “But Israel is the source of inspiration for that crew, and I feel all us can reflect upon his determination and maybe learn a little more about ourselves.
“I’m glad he is joining us this year in the Rec Class, and am hopeful he will return in a run for the money next year, too.”