ABOUT THE T-DOG

The T-Dog is a non-profit organization (pending approval) dedicated to hosting sled dog races in the Tanana Valley, celebrating dog-powered sports and community spirit. Tekla Butcher-Monson founded the T-Dog Races to foster a welcoming environment for participants—whether mushers, skijorers, bikers, or skiers—to grow, connect, and thrive. She established the event in honor of her mother, the legendary Iditarod champion Susan Butcher, designing it to offer a joyful, supportive experience for all, whether they’re seasoned racers or newcomers to the sport.

The concept for the T-Dog Races began with the T-Dog Training Run in March 2023, a small-scale event to test logistics and format. This informal trial allowed participants to experience the unique combination of camaraderie and challenge that would define the T-Dog spirit. Following the positive response to the Training Run, Tekla officially launched the full-scale T-Dog Races in 2024, introducing categories for the T-Dog 50, 110, and 200, as well as events for skijoring, bikejoring, skiing, and biking. The 2024 race marked the official beginning of the event, drawing a larger roster of participants and cementing T-Dog’s place in Alaska’s mushing calendar.

The mission of the T-Dog Races extends beyond competition. It’s about creating an adventure for both dogs and humans, emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and an inclusive atmosphere. Participants are encouraged to enhance their dog care, wilderness travel, and team partnership skills across various disciplines, all within a fun environment. The event isn’t just about finishing—it’s about building connections and creating lasting memories, both on and off the trail.

Looking ahead, Tekla envisions the T-Dog Races expanding and exploring new trails in the Tanana Valley while staying true to its core values of joy, adventure, and mutual support. Plans include broader race offerings, deeper community involvement, and the revitalization of historic trails. The T-Dog Races are poised to grow, with Tekla’s commitment to providing a positive and welcoming experience for all participants and their dogs always at its heart.

Volunteers

The T-Dog thrives thanks to our incredible volunteers, who bring the spirit of connection and community to life. In 2024, around 50 passionate individuals dedicated their time, energy, and talents to make the race a success, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all participants. If you want to be part of the 2025 T-Dog volunteer team, let us know today!

The T-Dog Board of Directors

  • Tekla Butcher-Monson

    President

    Tekla Butcher-Monson is the founder and race director of the T-Dog and the general manager at Trail Breaker Kennel. Inspired by her mother, Iditarod legend Susan Butcher, Tekla is passionate about creating a race series that fosters joy, learning, and collaboration. Beyond mushing, Tekla serves on the board of Explore Fairbanks and Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre. Her dedication to creativity, mentorship, and building inclusive spaces drives her work, whether she’s managing the kennel, directing theatre or leading local community initiatives in Fairbanks.

  • Abby

    Abby Klager

    Vice-President

  • Kelsey Sherrard

    Treasurer

    Kelsey is a geologist, BLS instructor, and dedicated volunteer EMT with a deep love for the outdoors. Living in Alaska's stunning environment inspires her work and community involvement.

    As the treasurer of the T-Dog board, Kelsey plays a vital role in organizing events that celebrate the beauty of Fairbanks and the greater Tanana Valley, she enjoys all outdoor activities. She believes in the power of community and actively seeks ways to foster connections among residents through shared experiences. Kelsey’s enthusiasm for nature and commitment to service make her a valuable asset to both her professional and local communities.

  • Ida Mortensen

    Secretary

    Born and raised in Scandinavia, Ida decided to call Alaska home after years of traveling the world and living in many different places. During her 8 years in Alaska Ida worked in tourism in Healy/Denali, then lived at and helped run a remote homestead/championship long-distance sled dog kennel. The love she has for Alaska and dogs, and maybe especially Alaskan Huskies, led her to Trail Breaker Kennel and the T-Dog, where she is excited to spread the love for sled dogs and the lifestyle of dog mushing. In her off time Ida spends time adventuring with her three Alaskan huskies - Latara, Lucy and Penny Lou. Together they enjoy the great Alaskan wilderness by bike, skis and foot.