Gary mentions several times that the race is about the dogs. Discuss what you think he means by this statement and what role, if any, humans play in the race.

Pick one of Gary's major wrecks during training and discuss the lessons learned from the experience and how they apply to the Iditarod.

Gary and his family give up everything and drain their bank accounts when they move to Minnesota. In modern society this is almost unheard of and sounds crazy. What do you feel the family gained from leaving behind all the trappings of a fast-paced life?

Why do you think Gary chose to give up the team after being diagnosed with coronary heart disease? Do you see any way that he could have managed to keep them?

Throughout the race Gary is confronted with breathtaking views often followed by near tragic events...