Anchorage, Alaska-based photojournalist John Thain, a seasoned professional with KTVA 11 News, has dedicated nine years to capturing the raw essence and human stories of the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. For John Thain, the Iditarod is more than just a race; it’s an intrinsic part of Alaskan life that drew him in from the moment he arrived from the Midwest. His journey from a curious newcomer to a devoted chronicler of this grueling race is a testament to his passion for visual storytelling and the captivating allure of the Last Frontier.
John Thain’s initial encounter with dog sledding ignited a spark. Having briefly covered similar events in Minnesota and Wisconsin, he recognized the Iditarod as an entirely different magnitude of adventure and challenge. Driven by a desire to immerse himself in Alaskan culture, John Thain proactively sought opportunities to document dog sled races. He spent weekends and personal time traveling extensively to cover smaller races, diligently building relationships with mushers and honing his understanding of the sport. This proactive approach and dedication laid the groundwork for his future role on the Iditarod trail. Years later, equipped with experience and a profound appreciation for the race, John Thain was ready to embark on his first journey covering the full Iditarod trail, marking a significant milestone in his career.
His “Why” for being deeply involved with the Iditarod stems from a profound connection forged over nearly a decade of coverage. For John Thain, simply observing from afar in Anchorage became unimaginable. The Iditarod had woven itself into the fabric of his professional life and personal passions. Returning to the trail each year is not a choice, but a compelling need to be an active participant in documenting and sharing the unfolding stories of the race. This deep-seated connection fuels his commitment to capturing the heart and soul of the Iditarod.
Reflecting on his most memorable Iditarod experience, John Thain vividly recalls his first year covering the entire trail in 2013. This particular race presented an unprecedented challenge: the Dalzell Gorge, a notoriously difficult section, was devoid of snow. Dog teams navigated the treacherous, snowless terrain, an astonishing and somewhat perilous spectacle. John Thain and his reporter colleague, Dave Goldman, found themselves in the heart of this extraordinary scene after landing their helicopter in the Dalzell Gorge. Amidst the chaos and breathtaking scenery, a simple moment of camaraderie emerged. Equipped with peanut butter, jelly, and tortillas, they prepared makeshift sandwiches and shared a surreal meal in the middle of the Dalzell Gorge, a testament to the unexpected human connections forged in the most unusual circumstances. This memory underscores that for John Thain, the Iditarod is not solely about the dogs and the race, but also about the shared experiences and bonds created with fellow journalists and participants.
However, John Thain also learned a profound life lesson intertwined with his Iditarod journey. The year 2015 brought a significant personal event: the impending birth of his daughter in March, coinciding with the Iditarod. Balancing his professional aspirations with his family responsibilities led to a pivotal realization. He recognized that while his passion for covering the Iditarod was strong, some moments in life are irreplaceable. Choosing to prioritize his family, John Thain stayed home, witnessing the birth of his daughter Ruby. This experience brought into sharp focus that “Iditarod isn’t everything,” a grounding perspective that balanced his dedication to his profession with the enduring importance of family. In a serendipitous turn, they named their daughter Ruby, unknowingly echoing the name of the Alaskan location where this interview took place, further connecting his personal life with his Iditarod journey.
