From the beauty of its wild and seemingly untouched landscape to the wonder of the dancing northern lights, there is no doubt that the great state of Alaska has much to be proud of.  Just like its natural beauty, the citizens of the Last Frontier are unique. Known for their competency, independence, and stubbornness, Alaskans of all ages are quick to lend a helping hand whenever it’s needed.

Local high schoolers Mia Bobowski, Bella Ranck and Mia Ranck are among the many youth that have contributed their time and talents to the Copper River basin community. Over the past four years the three girls have been active volunteers in the Copper Basin 300 dog sled race where they have predominantly assisted as aids during pre-race vet checks. 

Bella Ranck, who thoroughly enjoyed holding and keeping the dogs calm during vet examinations, said the most difficult part of the long afternoons are cold fingers. She remarked that, “It’s really cold sometimes. You have to take your gloves off to write notes. Your fingers get cold minutes after taking them out of the gloves.” 

However, cold fingers are a small price to pay for getting to meet the famous mushers, Aliy Zirkle and Ryne Olson. All three girls smiled with enthusiasm when they spoke about Zirkle and Olson. Mia Bobowski recalls that her most memorable moment in volunteering was when Ryne Olson, her favorite musher, called her over by name. 

Bobowski confessed that while volunteering for the CB 300 may have started out primarily as her mom’s idea, she now really enjoys getting to know the dogs. Mia has even had the opportunity to sponsor one of Olson’s sled dogs, Yoshi. After racing in the Iditarod, Ryne Olson sent Mia Bobowski a sticker of Yoshi as a thank you along with Yoshi’s dog tags from the event.  Bobowski was more than glad to receive the memento, a reminder that she too was a part of Ryne Olson’s team.  

Mia Ranck has also participated in vet checks, but her favorite memory of the Copper Basin 300 was working the midnight to 6 a.m shift at Meiers Lake. Despite the frigid temperatures that kept her feet cold, even in bunny boots, Mia Ranck said with a grin that she loved the moment when “all the mushers came in at once and everyone was scrambling. It’s a huge adrenaline rush.” 

The fear of making a mistake may hinder some from volunteering, but all three of the highschoolers encouraged community members to help out in any way they can. 

Mia Bobowski remarked on the overwhelming gratitude of everyone participating in the event. She said that most people are “just grateful you are there.”  Both Bella and Mia Ranck agreed, stating that while volunteering should be taken seriously, there is also a lot of fun to be had in meeting new people and making new friends. Bobowski advised potential volunteers to be prepared, “You are there to help, so bring anything and everything you may need.”  

When asked if she had any advice for those nervous about volunteering, Bella Ranck said with laughter and a shrug, “Just go for the dogs!” 

For those who find the sled dogs to be the stars of the event, this year the Copper Basin 300 is selling 2022 calendars featuring the energetic athletes. The volunteer photographers Whitney McLaren, Amber Bowers and Brandan Griffis have captured the many personalities of the Alaskan sled dog in the 12-month calendar. 

For anyone interested in joining the winter fun at the Copper Basin 300 there are still many volunteer positions available. The race is scheduled Jan. 8-12. Don’t miss the chance to help participate in this unique community event. Inquiries should be made through the Copper Basin 300 website: CB300.com.

By Mackenzie Dysinger