Glennallen, AK -- Every winter, Glennallen comes alive with the excitement, camaraderie, and fierce determination of one of Alaska’s most celebrated sled dog races, the Copper Basin 300, known as the "toughest 300 miles in Alaska."
Founded in 1990 by Ed and Shelly Peck of Lake Louise, the race was born out of a desire to support local businesses during the slow winter months while offering mushers a true test of skill, endurance, and teamwork on a mid-distance course that mirrors the challenges of the Iditarod.
Over the decades, the trail has evolved as lodges and checkpoints have closed or burned, but the spirit of the race has never wavered. Mushers still face extreme temperatures sometimes plunging to 60 below zero and grueling terrain, including the infamous climb between Chistochina and Paxson, fondly known as “The Hump.”
Despite these challenges, the race continues to draw some of the best mushers in Alaska and beyond, many of whom are Iditarod and Yukon Quest champions, coming to test their skills and train for longer races. The CB300 is also among the approved qualifying races for the Iditarod. Iditarod hopefuls must complete a combination of approved qualifying races to enter the race.
A Race That Builds Champions and Community
The Copper Basin 300 isn’t just a race, it's a training ground, a community celebration, and a showcase of dedication.
Multiple Wins: Mushers like Allen Moore, Nicolas Petit, and Brent Sass have dominated the past two decades. Moore calls the race the “mini-Yukon Quest,” a perfect mid-distance challenge to prepare for the Iditarod.
Iditarod Connection: Brent Sass won the CB300 in 2022 before claiming his first Iditarod victory that same year.
Recent Winners: Jessie Holmes took home his first CB300 victory in 2025, following Brent Sass’s 2024 win, highlighting the race’s role in shaping Alaska’s sled dog elite. He also went on to win the Iditarod that same year!
But the Copper Basin 300 is more than just an elite competition; it is a community cornerstone, a moment each year when Glennallen comes together to celebrate winter, tradition, and teamwork.
None of this would be possible without the dedication, energy, and humor of our board and volunteers. Jason Severs, President and Race Manager, is known for keeping board meetings lively with jokes and warmth, ensuring the hard work is balanced with fun. Supporting him is a tireless team:
Donna Russell-Swope, Vice President and Race Judge; Janice Maslen, Secretary and Race Central Manager; Catherine Vereline, Treasurer; Casey Brockman, Merchandise Specialist; Aline Stevenson, Volunteer Coordinator; Nathan Helmer, Lead Trailbreaker; Jennie Tschappat, Fundraising Coordinator; Kelsey Stanbro, Media Specialist.
From trailbreaking in subzero temperatures to coordinating logistics, fundraising, and volunteer support, these individuals dedicate countless hours to keep this beloved race alive.
The Copper Basin 300 proudly honors mushers and their incredible dogs. Rod’s Knives provides handmade knives with leather sheaths for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, as well as the Rookie of the Year. Each knife is more than a prize; it's a symbol of perseverance, skill, and community pride.
The race also celebrates dog wellness through the Pike Dog Wellness Veterinarians’ Choice Award, generously sponsored by David Pike for the next five years. This prestigious award honors mushers who demonstrate exceptional care for their dogs and comes with a trophy and $500 prize.
Local businesses in Glennallen also play a vital role, donating supplies, services, and time to make the event possible. Their support, along with the efforts of volunteers, creates a shared sense of pride and ownership in this iconic race proving that the Copper Basin 300 is truly a community achievement.
Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Copper Basin 300, from shoveling snow and staffing checkpoints to cheering on mushers. While astonishing vets and handlers help the mushers care for the dogs, there’s a place for everyone to contribute. To get involved, visit:
https://www.cb300.com/
Follow updates, volunteer opportunities, and musher spotlights on the Copper Basin 300 Facebook page, where Kelsey Stanbro keeps the community connected and shares the stories of mushers and their incredible canine teams.
From its early days as a winter business booster to its role as a training ground for Alaska’s top mushers, the Copper Basin 300 has grown into something much bigger: a celebration of courage, community, and canine companionship.
It’s a race that brings together volunteers, families, businesses, and spectators all driven by a shared love of winter, tradition, and the rugged beauty of the Copper River Basin. Thanks to the dedication, generosity, and humor of everyone involved, the Copper Basin 300 continues to be a cornerstone of Glennallen life, inspiring pride, perseverance, and community spirit for 37 years and hopefully many more to come.
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