Joe Redington Sr. was an ordinary man with extraordinary dreams and buckets of determination! His vision was as vast as the majestic Alaska landscape he loved to explore. This firsthand account is of the man whose love for the Alaskan husky and the Iditarod Trail evolved into the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Joe's adventurous spirit, fierce perseverance, and creative heart burned strong within his character and enabled the impossible to become a reality. His spell-binding stories and genuine love of Alaska drew people into his dreams. This is the story of those unique feats that defined Joe's life, and built the foundation for the most demanding and famous sled dog race in the world. As a young boy growing up around dogs, Joe Sr. was a part of my life. Reading Champion of Alaskan Huskies was like reliving a part of my upbringing. Joe would be pleased with his story being told. --Lance Mackey, Iditarod Champion 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Champion of Alaskan Huskies is an enjoyable insight into the lives of inspirational homesteaders and adventurers, Joe and Vi Redington, that brings their legendary can do spirit into the hearts of readers of all ages. --Rick Swenson, Iditarod Champion 1977, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1991 Joe was a true Alaskan Sourdough. His word was his bond and he was of resolute character. When he made a promise you could bank on it. --Frank Murkowski, Former US Senator and former Governor of Alaska Katie Mangelsdorf grew up in Alaska watching sled dog races, skiing, and hiking. The family ski trail behind her home followed part of the deeply worn Iditarod Trail. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would be writing about the man who rediscovered it. Katie's love for learning and discovery started with books. At twelve Katie was substitute teaching at Eagle River School. After college she taught in Bush Alaska, was a librarian, and taught the upper elementary grades, sixth grade being her favorite. She saw a need for an adventure/biography that would capture a sixth grader's interest. The life of Joe Redington Sr. would be a perfect fit.