Iditarod Fast Facts Here’s a look at the Iditarod dogsled race. The event is named after the Iditarod Trail, an old mail and supply route, traveled by dogsleds from Seward and Knik to Nome, Alaska. Facts The race traditionally begins on the first Saturday in March, starting in Anchorage and ending in Nome. The beginning of the race in Anchorage is considered a ceremonial start. The competitive part of the race usually begins the next day in Willow, but depends on weather conditions. There may be only one musher (person who drives the sled) per team. There are 12-16 dogs on each team. At least five dogs must be in harness (pulling the sled) at the finish line.