2008 Iditarod Musher Profile

Jason Mackey, 35, is the second generation of Mackey's to compete in the Iditarod. Father, Dick Mackey and older brothers, Rick and Lance are all three Iditarod champions and older brother Bill is also an Iditarod veteran. Jason has always been around sled dogs. As Dick Mackey's youngest son, Jason has literally mushed dogs all his life. Jason says, "I'm following in my father's footsteps and all three brothers, Lance, Rick and Bill. Having them all successfully complete the race just makes me want it that much more. I will always be honored following in all of their foot steps. They have all been great mentors. At least I know that I learned from some of the greatest in the sport today!" Jason moved his family from the Interior to the Kenai in search of a new start. He and his wife, Lisa, will celebrate their 16th anniversary in March. They have three teen age kids, Patrick, 16, Jason, 14, and Danielle, 17. Jason works as a heavy equipment operator and a commercial fisherman. When not taking care of his dogs or working, Jason enjoys riding their horses on the beaches of Cook Inlet and also, big game hunting. . Jason competed in three Jr. Iditarod races before graduating to adult racing.