THE IDITAROD TRAIL COMMITEE SALUTES YOU. MARCH 1989

Dog Mushing

"Dream big and dare to fail."
Colonel Norman Vaughan, family friend, Iditarod veteran, arctic and Antarctic explorer, member of Admiral Byrd's first Antarctic expedition.

"I came to Alaska to find out if it REALLY was the last frontier. Mushing with the Austin's proved it really is and still exists today. I had an unbelievable time!"
David Hanrahan Melbourne, Australia

"Driving a team of the Austin's immaculately trained and extremely lovable huskies makes me only describe the trip in superlatives. It was the most memorable adventure I have ever experienced."
Jeri Schmidt, New York

"I would recommend travel with the Austin's for any reasonably fit person willing to trade in a few comforts for the time of their life."
Joe Oakes, California

"You, Clara and family made us feel completely at home. We were impressed how well you handled such a diverse group. It was a great challenge that this 60 year-old really enjoyed."
Diana Bingham, Vermont

"My only regret was that you were fully booked and my husband has to wait until next year. Thank you very much for the wonderful meals when I was the only vegetarian."
Annie Gross, Utah

"Vast caribou herds were awesome as was the beauty of the country and Clara's superb cooking."
Rupert and Anita, Hong Kong

"If we just stay in Alaska with the Austin's do you think they will find us?"
Chris and Amy Crouch, Honeymooners - Naval Intelligence, Spain

"A memorable experience for many reasons; the dog mushing, meeting the native people and making new friends. Thanks for letting us into your life for a week."
Erna and Mark,California

"We travelled halfway around the world for your adventure. It was 130 degrees colder here that at home and the gear you provided kept us warm at all times. We especially appreciate the video you take of the trip."
Alex and Marie, Dubai, United Arab Emerites

"I saved money and worked an extra job to make the trip. I lost my bridge in a blizzard and loved every minute of the adventure."
Marty Moran, Mass (Marty is our 1998 musher of the year in recognition of his dog care above and beyond the call of duty.)

"Our family of 4 had the greatest time imaginable. Wildlife every day, birds (like falcons) few ever see. A big thanks from the kids (8 and 12) for the confidence you had in them."
The George Lund family, Arizona

"Thanks for the adventure of a lifetime. The dogs are my heroes, so friendly and excited to run."
Mike Bovyn, Chicago

"I was surprised the dogs were so well mannered. I enjoyed feeding and snacking them more than anything else. I never laughed so much as we did every night on the trip."
Rich Whitcoat, California

"I come back every year mostly for the great fun we all have. The small number of guests always makes things personal."
Wes Osburn, Ohio

"By the end of the first day I already got my moneys worth. The rest of the trip was all a bonus. I'll be back."
Roy Swafford, California

"It would be real easy to loose my heart to Alaska, the life and the people (like my pal Clara). I really enjoyed our trip and am still in a slight state of depression that it's over. When do you visit?"
Vicky-Jo Hurlbert, California

"Thanks especially for the great blizzard we went through, it was really what I came up for. I didn't expect TWO of them!!!"
Patrick Firmenich, Switzerland

"Thank you Jerry and Clara. As frequent Alaska visitors your adventure tops them all. The food was great as were the dogs."
Horst and Gisela, Germany