Howdy Kaiser Race Fans-
Pete has had to make the difficult decision to scratch from the 2021 Iditarod Trail Race.
This is always a difficult decision and one that Pete has actually never had to make before. In this case there are quite a few factors that went into Pete’s decision.
First, the Team is still dealing with a virus that started with a few dogs and eventually transferred to all of them. It would take a few days of recovery for the Team to be “race ready” and this just isn’t in the cards for Team Kaiser.
Second is the daunting Alaska Range that is going to require the best of any Team. Heading through that section of the race with a depleted or recovering Team isn’t something that Pete was willing to do in any circumstance.
The relationship between musher and the Team is a special one formed over many years, miles, and races. The Team’s mental health, in that they know that Pete will always take care of them, is something Pete never wants to put in jeopardy. Of all things, this is probably the most important. Way better to withdraw and head home, than chance losing the trust of this great dog Team. It is disappointing for Pete, but this is always the focus for his training and all of the 365 days he takes care of his Team. In this case, it is really the only option.
We totally appreciate all of the support from our fans, sponsors, and family. None of this is without your support.
Our SUPER sponsor Ryan Air is at this hour prepping an aircraft to pickup Pete and the Team. They will be home in Bethel this afternoon.
Thanks to everyone from Kaiser Racing Kennel!
As Pete heads home, we still will maintain focus on Richie Diehl and the Finish of the 2021 Iditarod. Go Richie!!
Veteran Iditarod musher Pete Kaiser scratches at McGrath (S) checkpoint
Anchorage, Alaska – Veteran Iditarod musher Pete Kaiser (bib #3) of Bethel, Alaska, scratched at 9 a.m. today at the McGrath (S) checkpoint.
Kaiser made the decision to scratch in the best interest of his race team.
Kaiser had 10 dogs in harness at the time he made the decision to scratch.
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