Jessica Hendricks

Jessica Hendricks, 25, is a native Alaskan that has stayed close to her roots, attending high school in North Pole, Alaska while training for mid-distance races. Hendricks began mushing at the age of nine, competing in many junior sprint races, the Junior North American Championships, the Junior Yukon Quest and the Junior Iditarod.

Following her junior year in high school, Jessica began preparing to run the Iditarod. She was one of the youngest mushers to race in 2003 and at the end, she captured the ‘Rookie of the Year’ award. Jessica finished in 19th place with a time of 11 days, 2 hours, 40 minutes, 17 seconds.

In 2004, Jessica and Tom partnered to form Iron Pearl Kennels which is located just outside of Fairbanks in Two Rivers, AK. Their kennel of 60+ dogs have strong lines drawn from Erhart, Buser and MacEachen kennels. Jessica and Tom have raised and trained all of their dogs from pups, making them competitors that they trust, understand and count on.

Jessica used the knowledge that she gained from her race in 2003 to make dramatic improvement in 2005 and finish in 15th place. “I love the sport of racing dogs and the Iditarod is the best test I can give my dogs.”

When Jessica’s not off training, racing or taking care of the dogs, she can be found riding her horses, fishing or hunting.


Race History

Learn More: Jessica Hendricks | Thomas Lesatz | The IPK Dog Team