After completing his first Iditarod in 2009, Tom Thurston has revealed he now wants to break into the top 30 this year.

The musher has raised his ambitions from wanting to finish the race to crossing the finishing line in a respectable position, according to the Steamboat Pilot.

He said last year’s event was one of the most punishing experiences of his life and left him aching for weeks afterwards.

Despite this, Thurston now cannot wait to get back onto the 1,000-mile trail and enjoy some quality time with his sled dogs.

He revealed that he relies on a diet of hotdogs, crisps and shrimp to get him through the two-week race, while his canines chomp on frozen meats such as chicken and beef.

The race, which begins on March 6th 2010, will see the likes of Lance Mackey and Jeff King battle it out to be crowned champion.

Mackey has won the event for the last three years running.