IN MEMORY

This page is dedicated to the memory of three remarkable and special animals that tragically lost their lives in a snowmachine collision in December of 2023. Mike and the Northern Whites strive to honor the memory of Solo, Buttercup, and John Lennon with every step they take on the trail.

In 2024, Mike organized a race on the Chugiak trail system where these dogs learned to become sled dogs. The race was held in their memory.

  • John Lennon

    John Lennon was one of the biggest and strongest Northern Whites in the kennel. His disposition belied his stature and size, as he was a cuddly creature who craved human touch and affection. Already a veteran competitor in races such as Iditarod, Fur Rondy, Kobuk 440, Copper Basin 300 and Willow 300, John was starting to come into his own as a race leader when he was tragically lost. John’s big heart and loving demeanor will never be forgotten.

  • Solo

    The young alpha female of Northern Whites Sled Dog Kennel was a once in a lifetime type of dog. This brilliant white Alaskan Husky was a loving companion and a fierce competitor. The only pup born in her litter, the aptly named Solo grew up in Jim and Anna's house. She loved to play with both humans and dogs, taking younger litters on walks, exploring the countryside on hikes with her humans, and cuddling on the couch. An immensely intelligent animal, she could not be contained by any fence yet never strayed far from her home and family. As a sled dog, she was without flaw. A big, strong, fearless, hard driving dog, she was moved to the front of the team at a very young age. She competed in Iditarod and Fur Rondy, along with many distance races. While only a yearling, she won one of the longest races in the world as the main leader. As a two year old, she lead her team to the fastest ever recorded time in a race on the historic Iditarod trail to the iconic "Nome Sign" and back. As a 3 year old, she was only just beginning to realize her true potential and immense talent when she was tragically slain by a snowmachine. Solo embodied the true spirit of Alaska and lives on the hearts of all that knew her.

  • Buttercup

    As an animal, Buttercup was sweet, calm, and independent. As a sled dog, she was pure speed and drive. Despite her small stature, she was fearless as a leader. Part of a litter that was full of exceptional leaders, Buttercup may have stood out as the best of all of them. Iditarod veteran musher Gunnar Johnson shared the story of a brutal Kobuk 440 race with Buttercup. The weather was fierce, even shutting down the race and leading Gunnar to describe it as a “windy hell”. He relied on Buttercup to lead him through the vicious conditions and even rescued other teams caught in the storm. Buttercup was a favorite of many people that came through the dog yard, and is deeply missed by all.