Fifteen mushers took off in a mass start for the 2023 Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
Slideshow: Akiak Dash start
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Raymond Alexie of Kwethluk awaits the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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Sled dogs wait their turn to be harnessed at the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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Tory Fitzpatrick and kids crouch at his sled at the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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Spectators and handlers gathered on the frozen Kuskokwim River for the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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A young spectator watches from a sled of her own at the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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A dog howls in anticipation at the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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Spectators and handlers gathered on the frozen Kuskokwim River for the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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Raymond Alexie of Kwethluk awaits the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK
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Two lead dogs sit calmly before the start of the Akiak Dash on Jan. 28, 2023 in Bethel, Alaska.
MaryCait Dolan/KYUK