FILE - This March 18, 2009, file photo shows Lance Mackey with his lead dogs Larry, right, and Maple after crossing the finish line of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, in Nome, Alaska.Mackey looks at his life now, and thanks his dogs. The four-time conse
FILE - This March 18, 2009, file photo shows Lance Mackey with his lead dogs Larry, right, and Maple after crossing the finish line of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, in Nome, Alaska.Mackey looks at his life now, and thanks his dogs. The four-time consecutive winner of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race credits them for bringing him across the finish line and handing him fame and fortune Alaska-style. Al Grillo, File, Associated Press
By Associated Press

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Alaska musher Lance Mackey has already achieved the near impossible in the world of long-distance sled dog racing with four consecutive wins in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.

The question now is whether the Fairbanks musher can do it again.

Mackey says he has no doubt. He says he is as hungry as ever to win the 1,150-mile race from Anchorage to Nome again.

The Iditarod kicks off Saturday with the ceremonial start, when downtown Anchorage takes on a party atmosphere between mushers and fans. The real racing begins Sunday at the restart north of Anchorage.

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Sixty-two teams are competing with mushers coming from as far away as Scotland, Jamaica and New Zealand. The winner will get $50,400 and a new pickup truck.

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