Do mushers get any help while running the Iditarod?
No. After the team leaves the starting line in Wasilla, no help is allowed from outside people. The only exception is that mushers are allowed one helper for the first ten miles out of the starting line when the team is fresh and excited. This helper rides with the team to Knik, the first checkpoint. No crew is waiting at any of the checkpoints to help the mushers. The race officials at the checkpoints are able to assist mushers with getting the teams to a campsite and showing mushers where the food drops and water is. Veterinarians are available at all the checkpoints to answer questions about dog care and look over dogs when needed. Mushers cooperate with each other and often help each other out.
