This is The Blue Tarp, stories of Alaska’s Northern Susitna Valley as told by those who lived them.  Today, we’ll hear about Alaska’s state sport, dog mushing, and how mushing events have played a role in life in the area.  Mushing races can be as short as a few miles or as long as a thousand.  We’ll cover the whole range in the next half hour.  Whether you’re an old timer or a newcomer, there’s room under The Blue Tarp for everyone.