Ron Kaiser – 2020 Bogus Creek 150 – Second Place

40 years mushing… That’s a pretty long time.

So many miles and races. So many memories.

All that time and to see his son take the reins and become an Iditarod Champion. Sled dog racing is definitely in the Kaiser bloodline and this year’s Bogus 150 was no exception. Driving the B Team, Ron took out onto the trail and by the halfway point was 8 minutes behind the leader.

As Teams came down the trail towards Bethel, the interval remained pretty consistent until Akiachak when both Matt Scott and Ron Kaiser put it into high gear and started to make their move. Less than a mile from the Finish, poling with a ski pole, Ron picked off Alexie Larson. Then, with the finish in sight, both Jason Pavilla and Ron Kaiser realized that they would have to help their Team if they wanted to win. It was a footrace as Ron passed the young man from upriver and made his break for the line. With no time to spare, Ron crossed the finish line, only about 30 seconds in front of Jason.

What a great finish and Ron was beaming ear to ear, tired, but certainly satisfied.

Kaiser Race fans were there to meet him, including his old buddy and mentor, Bill Eisenbart, who helped Ron get into racing all those many years ago. Rick Hanson, his friend and perennial dog handler was there as well as many family and friends. Of course, Janet, his wife and biggest fan was there, absolutely thrilled. It was a great moment for all of us to see Ron finish such an exciting race.

Here’s the photos from the finish.

 

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