It is a huge achievement to finish the Iditarod sled dog race, let alone win it, it has been claimed.

Discussing the exploits of Robert Hoyte – who completed the course a number of years ago – commentator Marion George told the Ithca Journal merely taking part in the event proves a person’s strength and determination.

"Although there is only one first-place winner, anyone who completes the 1,100 miles over the rugged terrain – enduring the weather and its elements – most certainly is a winner," she told the news source.

Held in Alaska between Anchorage and Nome, Iditarod is known as the Last Great Race on Earth and sees teams of 12 to 15 canines and mushers compete for between ten and 17 days.

Organisers explain it thus: "[It] puts man and animal against nature".

The 2010 race is set to begin on March 6th, with the likes of Lance Mackey, Jane Faulkner and Ryan Redington set to take part.