Ryne Olson

29 year old Yukon Quest veteran

Nationality: American
Current Residence: Two Rivers, Alaska
Occupation(s): Dog musher, guide at Last Frontier Mushing Co-op
Kennel Name: Ryno Kennel
Name Origination: Nickname
Kennel Bloodlines: Zirkle/Moore, King, Mackey
Breeds: Alaskan Husky
# of Dogs in Kennel: 43

Musher Question & Answer

How many years have you been running dogs?
9

Tell us about your dogs?
Almost the whole team has been raised at our kennel. The core of the team have completed several 1000-mile races, but there most likely will be a handful of 1000-mile newbies. We have lots of solid two + three year olds hoping to make the squad!

How did you get started running dogs?
As a kid from Durango, CO, my parents gave me the best 12th birthday present: a dog sled ride. That's all it took. I contacted Aliy Zirkle and Allen Moore. After working with them, they helped me start my own kennel!

What do you love most about running sled dogs?
This question stumps me every time. I love everything about running dogs. Perhaps a better question - what do you love most about life? Answer - running dogs.

Are you a member of any other organizations involved in sled dog sports?
Two Rivers Dog Mushing Association

Why did you enter the Yukon Quest? What are your goals for the race?
To finish with a happy, healthy team as fast as we can!

What music do you listen to on the trail?
Anything, everything, nothing.

How did your dogs get their names?/ How do you choose names?
Friends and family help choose the names. For example - the Ecuadorians (Ruco, Kindi, Supa); the Outlaws (Lefty, Fenton, "Belle" Star, Calamity Jane "LJ"); the Ducks (Coot, Drake, Brant); the Card Games (Fish, Blitz, Uno, Yuker).

List recent sled dog races and/or best performances
2016 Yukon Quest - 9th 2017 Copper Basin - 4th 2016 Copper Basin - 1st 2015 Copper Basin - 2nd