Todd Palin has taken the Iron Dog title four times. This year it wasn’t meant to be. He’ll likely be right back on the sled in 2015. Perhaps he’ll be back on top. In the meantime, all you have to do is see Trig to realize Palin is already a winner.
We’ll find out who will capture the Iron Dog crown this weekend, but we know this much for certain: Todd Palin is a champion. Monday night Team 11, comprised of Palin and Tyler Huntington, scratched out due to mechanical problems. Sure, Palin would have liked to have done better in this year’s race but when you see who’s waiting for him at home, you understand what’s truly important.
“When the girls told Trig that daddy had to leave the race, he still said, “Go, daddy!” And it’s sort of his first “sentence” that’s kind of clear! We’re proud of our boy!”
She included an adorable video of 5-year old Trig. The youngest Palin child is as happy as can be. “Go, daddy” would be the sentiment win, lose, or draw. Seeing the face of a child light up by just the mention of his dad is priceless. No championship or first place finish could ever top that.
Todd Palin also posted on Sarah’s Facebook page:
Hi! For anyone interested, this is Todd and Tyler from Iron Dog Team #11 writing from Sarah’s Facebook page.
Disappointed on the trail today, but keeping everything in perspective. Due to a rare mechanical issue that was impossible to fix on the trail, we’ll be cheering on the other teams the rest of the race. I’ve been enjoying this endurance race for decades now, and you never can tell how it’s going to turn out for any team. There’s always inexplicable circumstances arising and you never know what mother nature will challenge you with out there. But it’s always rewarding and worth the effort.
This race, like everything else in life, is a gamble. Our advice is to find your passion, don’t procrastinate, and just do it! This isn’t a dress rehearsal. It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked down, what matters is how many times you get back up. As Sarah likes to say, live life vibrantly! Having the freedom to tackle challenges like this is what makes America amazing.
We’re incredibly grateful for all the supporters that make the world’s ultimate snowmachine race happen every year. It wouldn’t be possible without our rural communities that connect the trail, celebrate this event, and cheer on every participant. You keep us going, bush Alaska! You’re our foundation! Thank you so much for all you guys do.
Keep the other racers in your prayers.
Also, thanks so much for pledging in the fund raiser to fight breast cancer with the awesome “Bring Home the Pink” campaign. You can still support the Ski-Doo teams involved in this great cause by pledging here: http://www.gofundme.com/67f7gs
Quyana,
Todd & Tyler
Team #11
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