Latest news with #JessieHolmes
Yahoo
08-04-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Fire season starts before Iditarod ends
This area along the perimeter of the 2024 Riley Fire in Denali National Park and Preserve. The 2025 wildfire season is off to an early start in Alaska's coastal region. (Bureau of Land Management photo) The record-low snow conditions south of the Alaska Range have had big impacts across the state, especially around wildfire potential. In early March, the Iditarod had to move the race to the northern route, while the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection, or DOF, declared an early wildland fire season in its Coastal Region, requiring burn permits starting March 17 instead of the usual April 1. This region includes Southeast, Southcentral and Southwest Alaska. Find a map of the area here. Even before the DOF order took effect or Jessie Holmes's dog team crossed the finish line in Nome, two fires had already spread in the snow-free grasses of the Kenai Peninsula and Mat-Su Valley, confirming the early fire danger in Alaska's most populous areas. The risk of human-caused fires has become evident, with at least 17 requiring a response as of April 4. Most were the result of negligent burning, emphasizing the critical importance of ensuring that burn piles are monitored, keeping fire tools on hand, and never leaving a fire unattended. While local, state, and federal fire managers prepare for an already active fire season, it is critical that Alaskans exercise caution with anything that could ignite a fire. We encourage homeowners to reduce wildfire hazards around your home by following Firewise principals. Burning yard waste in a pile or barrel is a common spring chore for many homeowners, and in these extreme conditions, it is important to follow safe burning practices as outlined on the DOF Learn Before You Burn website and on burn permits. Unsafe burning is a major contributor to wildfires, especially this time of year because dry, dead vegetation is exposed to the sun, creating a landscape primed for ignition that could quickly spread and endanger lives and property. For an even safer option, consider disposing of yard waste at designated woody debris disposal sites operated by local municipalities, boroughs or state DOF offices. You can find a web app showing the disposal sites in Alaska here. As we head into spring, Alaskans should take extra precautions: Be mindful when recreating on dry, exposed vegetation — one spark from an ATV, snowmachine, or chainsaw can start a fire. Follow all burn permit requirements and restrictions. Do not burn on a windy day. If conditions continue to deteriorate, burn suspensions or closures may be necessary to protect lives and property. If you see smoke or fire, report it immediately by calling 911 or 1-800-237-3633. Early detection can mean the difference between a small fire and a large-scale emergency. Stay informed through information from your local government fire departments, emergency services, and wildland fire agencies through social media and online sources such as the Alaska Wildland Fire Information — — or the Alaska Interagency Coordination Center website. Years like this one, where the snow melts early, are more likely to result in above-average fire seasons, according to new research from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. While early snow-off does not guarantee a big season, Alaska's spring snowmelt now occurs nearly two weeks earlier than it did in the 1990s, contributing to long-term wildfire trends. Both tundra and boreal forest regions are experiencing larger, more frequent fires, with statewide impacts. The new Alaska's Changing Wildfire Environment report summarizes what is known about how wildland fire in Alaska is changing. The report was compiled by the UAF Alaska Fire Science Consortium, with contributions from the Alaska wildfire management community. By staying informed and taking precautions now, Alaskans can help reduce the risk of dangerous wildfires. Just as mushers adapt to unpredictable trail conditions, we must also adjust to Alaska's changing fire landscape. The same lack of snow that forced the Iditarod north is fueling early fire activity in the south. While the Iditarod's route may shift year to year, our responsibility to prevent wildfires remains constant. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Jessie Holmes says his dogs deserve all the credit for his 'magical' first Iditarod win
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Bundled-up well wishers lined a street along the Bering Sea coastline in the early morning darkness Friday, cheering musher Jessie Holmes as he won Alaska's Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Holmes pumped his fist as he ran alongside his sled with a headlamp beaming from his forehead, as he and his 10-dog team finished the 1,128-mile (1,815-kilometer) race across the Alaska wilderness in the Gold Rush town of Nome. The distance for this year's running was the longest in the Iditarod's 53-year history. He said his win felt 'magical' and he gave credit — and hugs — to his dogs, whom he described as family. Who is Jessie Holmes? Holmes lives in the Interior Alaska community of Nenana, about 300 miles (480 kilometers) north of Anchorage, where he is a carpenter and lives a subsistence lifestyle. He found reality TV fame as a yearslong cast member of 'Life Below Zero,' a National Geographic program that documents the struggles of people living in remote parts of Alaska. Originally from Alabama, Holmes has lived since 2004 in Alaska, where he found a passion for the wilderness and competing in sled dog races. This year was Holmes' eighth Iditarod, and he has now finished in the top 10 six times, including third last year and in 2022. In 2018, his first Iditarod, he won Rookie of the Year honors with his seventh-place finish. His win this year comes on the heels of adversity. He was helping repair buildings in the remote community of Golovin after the region was walloped by the remnants of Typhoon Merbok in 2022 when part of a house fell on him. He suffered several broken ribs and a broken wrist and was forced to train that winter with one arm, the Anchorage Daily News reported. His dog team Holmes said he bred the 10 dogs that took him to victory, adding that he had held each of them in his hands as puppies. 'I'm really proud of these dogs and I love them. And they did it. They deserve all the credit,' he said. He lavished particular praise on his lead dogs, Hercules and Polar, who were adorned at the finish with floral wreaths. 'These are the best in the world, right here,' he said, smiling, his arms draped around them. The trail A lack of snow this year forced changes to the route and starting point of what is typically a 1,000-mile (1,609-kilometer) race. There are checkpoints along the route for rest or refueling. Mushers feed their dogs and put out straw for them to lay down, and catch some sleep themselves if they can. Mushers' sleds must be able to carry and provide cover to injured or tired dogs, in addition to equipment and food. They must carry adequate emergency food for their dogs when leaving a checkpoint, as well as routine meals and snacks. The temperature in Nome when Holmes finished was -6 degrees Fahrenheit (-21 Celsius). He crossed the finish line after 10 days, 14 hours, 55 minutes and 41 seconds of racing. He came in about three hours ahead of the second place finisher, Matt Hall. Paige Drobny finished third. 'I'll tell you one thing: I damn sure ain't tired,' Holmes said to a chorus of cheering fans. 'It's hard to put into words, but it's a magical feeling, and it's not about this moment now. It's about all those moments along the trail.' He described witnessing a beautiful sunset, the moon shimmering on the snow and the northern lights, and said he had time to ponder his mentors and race legends who had died, 'looking down on me and telling me I could do it. I just wanted to join that club with them. I've wanted that for a long time.' What does Holmes win? Holmes is taking home $57,200 for his victory, in addition to awards including $4,500 worth of gold nuggets and 25 pounds of fresh salmon for finishing first in earlier stages. He described the race as '10 quality days. I got my money's worth.'
The Independent
14-03-2025
- Sport
- The Independent
Jessie Holmes says his dogs deserve all the credit for his 'magical' first Iditarod win
Bundled-up well wishers lined a street along the Bering Sea coastline in the early morning darkness Friday, cheering musher Jessie Holmes as he won Alaska's Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Holmes pumped his fist as he ran alongside his sled with a headlamp beaming from his forehead, as he and his 10-dog team finished the 1,128-mile (1,815-kilometer) race across the Alaska wilderness in the Gold Rush town of Nome. The distance for this year's running was the longest in the Iditarod's 53-year history. He said his win felt 'magical' and he gave credit — and hugs — to his dogs, whom he described as family. Who is Jessie Holmes? Holmes lives in the Interior Alaska community of Nenana, about 300 miles (480 kilometers) north of Anchorage, where he is a carpenter and lives a subsistence lifestyle. He found reality TV fame as a yearslong cast member of 'Life Below Zero,' a National Geographic program that documents the struggles of people living in remote parts of Alaska. Originally from Alabama, Holmes has lived since 2004 in Alaska, where he found a passion for the wilderness and competing in sled dog races. This year was Holmes' eighth Iditarod, and he has now finished in the top 10 six times, including third last year and in 2022. In 2018, his first Iditarod, he won Rookie of the Year honors with his seventh-place finish. His win this year comes on the heels of adversity. He was helping repair buildings in the remote community of Golovin after the region was walloped by the remnants of Typhoon Merbok in 2022 when part of a house fell on him. He suffered several broken ribs and a broken wrist and was forced to train that winter with one arm, the Anchorage Daily News reported. His dog team Holmes said he bred the 10 dogs that took him to victory, adding that he had held each of them in his hands as puppies. 'I'm really proud of these dogs and I love them. And they did it. They deserve all the credit,' he said. He lavished particular praise on his lead dogs, Hercules and Polar, who were adorned at the finish with floral wreaths. 'These are the best in the world, right here,' he said, smiling, his arms draped around them. The trail A lack of snow this year forced changes to the route and starting point of what is typically a 1,000-mile (1,609-kilometer) race. There are checkpoints along the route for rest or refueling. Mushers feed their dogs and put out straw for them to lay down, and catch some sleep themselves if they can. Mushers' sleds must be able to carry and provide cover to injured or tired dogs, in addition to equipment and food. They must carry adequate emergency food for their dogs when leaving a checkpoint, as well as routine meals and snacks. The temperature in Nome when Holmes finished was -6 degrees Fahrenheit (-21 Celsius). He crossed the finish line after 10 days, 14 hours, 55 minutes and 41 seconds of racing. He came in about three hours ahead of the second place finisher, Matt Hall. Paige Drobny finished third. 'I'll tell you one thing: I damn sure ain't tired,' Holmes said to a chorus of cheering fans. 'It's hard to put into words, but it's a magical feeling, and it's not about this moment now. It's about all those moments along the trail.' He described witnessing a beautiful sunset, the moon shimmering on the snow and the northern lights, and said he had time to ponder his mentors and race legends who had died, 'looking down on me and telling me I could do it. I just wanted to join that club with them. I've wanted that for a long time.' What does Holmes win? Holmes is taking home $57,200 for his victory, in addition to awards including $4,500 worth of gold nuggets and 25 pounds of fresh salmon for finishing first in earlier stages. He described the race as '10 quality days. I got my money's worth.'
Associated Press
14-03-2025
- Sport
- Associated Press
Jessie Holmes says his dogs deserve all the credit for his ‘magical' first Iditarod win
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Bundled-up well wishers lined a street along the Bering Sea coastline in the early morning darkness Friday, cheering musher Jessie Holmes as he won Alaska's Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Holmes pumped his fist as he ran alongside his sled with a headlamp beaming from his forehead, as he and his 10-dog team finished the 1,128-mile (1,815-kilometer) race across the Alaska wilderness in the Gold Rush town of Nome. The distance for this year's running was the longest in the Iditarod's 53-year history. He said his win felt 'magical' and he gave credit — and hugs — to his dogs, whom he described as family. Who is Jessie Holmes? Holmes lives in the Interior Alaska community of Nenana, about 300 miles (480 kilometers) north of Anchorage, where he is a carpenter and lives a subsistence lifestyle. He found reality TV fame as a yearslong cast member of 'Life Below Zero,' a National Geographic program that documents the struggles of people living in remote parts of Alaska. Originally from Alabama, Holmes has lived since 2004 in Alaska, where he found a passion for the wilderness and competing in sled dog races. This year was Holmes' eighth Iditarod, and he has now finished in the top 10 six times, including third last year and in 2022. In 2018, his first Iditarod, he won Rookie of the Year honors with his seventh-place finish. His win this year comes on the heels of adversity. He was helping repair buildings in the remote community of Golovin after the region was walloped by the remnants of Typhoon Merbok in 2022 when part of a house fell on him. He suffered several broken ribs and a broken wrist and was forced to train that winter with one arm, the Anchorage Daily News reported. His dog team Holmes said he bred the 10 dogs that took him to victory, adding that he had held each of them in his hands as puppies. 'I'm really proud of these dogs and I love them. And they did it. They deserve all the credit,' he said. He lavished particular praise on his lead dogs, Hercules and Polar, who were adorned at the finish with floral wreaths. 'These are the best in the world, right here,' he said, smiling, his arms draped around them. The trail A lack of snow this year forced changes to the route and starting point of what is typically a 1,000-mile (1,609-kilometer) race. There are checkpoints along the route for rest or refueling. Mushers feed their dogs and put out straw for them to lay down, and catch some sleep themselves if they can. Mushers' sleds must be able to carry and provide cover to injured or tired dogs, in addition to equipment and food. They must carry adequate emergency food for their dogs when leaving a checkpoint, as well as routine meals and snacks. The temperature in Nome when Holmes finished was -6 degrees Fahrenheit (-21 Celsius). He crossed the finish line after 10 days, 14 hours, 55 minutes and 41 seconds of racing. He came in about three hours ahead of the second place finisher, Matt Hall. Paige Drobny finished third. 'I'll tell you one thing: I damn sure ain't tired,' Holmes said to a chorus of cheering fans. 'It's hard to put into words, but it's a magical feeling, and it's not about this moment now. It's about all those moments along the trail.' He described witnessing a beautiful sunset, the moon shimmering on the snow and the northern lights, and said he had time to ponder his mentors and race legends who had died, 'looking down on me and telling me I could do it. I just wanted to join that club with them. I've wanted that for a long time.' What does Holmes win? Holmes is taking home $57,200 for his victory, in addition to awards including $4,500 worth of gold nuggets and 25 pounds of fresh salmon for finishing first in earlier stages.
USA Today
14-03-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Former reality TV star Jessie Holmes wins Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
Former reality TV star Jessie Holmes wins Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, one of the most enduring physical challenges in sports, was won on Friday by former reality television star Jessie Holmes. Holmes crossed the finish line in Nome, Alaska, at 2:55 a.m. in 10 days, 14 hours, 55 minutes and 41 seconds after the 53rd edition race started in Fairbanks on March 3. He previously finished third in 2022 and 2024 and will take home the largest percentage of the $500,000 purse for winning this year's race. The route of 1,129 miles was extended because of lack of snow in the area. The Iditarod trail is usually 1,000 miles. 'It's hard to put into words, but it's a magical feeling,' Holmes said after the race. 'It's not about this moment now. It's about all those moments along the trail." It was Holmes's eighth time competing in the Iditarod as only 33 mushers started the race, tied for the fewest ever. From 2015 to 2023, Holmes was on the National Geographic program, "Life Below Zero," which follows hunters and remote life in Alaska. Ten mushers didn't finish the race, and one pregnant female dog on the team of musher Daniel Klein died. Klein was forced to withdraw because of the death.
