The Mushers Ride Out Part 2 Alaskan Dog Sledding

THE MUSHERS RIDE OUT (part 2) Arctic Dogsledding (continuation) But in the race-- the last sleds skid Fleet dashers kiss the road Excitement flows through panting limbs Among this glorious fold The mushers breathe in glories ‘Neath skies where grey eats blue The dogs’ blood touched in magic Heart-boldness born anew For racing has its winners The world will see one face but the winning of this venture-- is survival of the race Foes and allies side by side Fate braids their wild desires Each step through such life threatening lands Seek comforts flamed by fires. A thousand miles will test their skill In cold winds dark and fierce A bond will form among these teams No pot of gold can pierce The old dogs teach the young Young mushers quickly grow Keep straight the gangline as they run Teams strain through ice and snow When injured dogs bleed out their lives Leave blots of crimson tears the lead dog takes the team to task Delays all pain and fears And when they see the final leg each team will tear in town where all are warmly welcomed and warmly bedded down. A noble nature rules here Despite life rough and cruel A code of honor spurs them on This life learned not in school. The widow’s lamp burns valiantly Awaits the last sweet team And when they stagger cross the line The sirens gaily scream-- There is respect for hearts that blaze They offer brave ones rest-- The folks that welcome first to last Are sparks of Nature’s Best Victoria Anderson-Throop 12/27/12 Home: Valdez, Alaska