Layers are necessary on the frigid morning of the ceremonial start-the " real feel " is well below freezing, and the early morning shade makes it even cooler. Clips to harness dogs in airplanes await fluffy passengers. Pilots Greg Fischer and Daniel Hayden pause for a photo on the flightline in McGrath. Volunteer vets at every checkpoint examine the dog sled teams. 54 AOPA PILOT / November 2024