[1][13] To pursue her love of dogsled racing and breeding huskies, she moved to the Wrangell Mountains area of Alaska.

She spent two years working for Iditarod founder Joe Redington in exchange for dogs to build up her team.

Libby Riddles, a relative newcomer, braved a blizzard and became the first woman to win the Iditarod that year.

[17] Her other speed records included the Norton Sound 250, Kobuk 220, Kuskokwim 300, and the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.

Observing the special day, the bill noted, provides opportunity for people to "remember the life of Susan Butcher, an inspiration to Alaskans and to millions around the world."