Jennifer Freking
Finland, MN
I feel blessed to live a life following my passions. I have been racing sled dogs since I was eight years old and consider it an honor to work with these amazing dogs my entire life. Our family owns Manitou Crossing Kennels, home to 60 racing Siberian Huskies, where we raise and train our dogs intending to preserve the Siberian Husky working ability. Our daughters share our passion, spending a lot of time helping training puppies and compete in the Beargrease Cub Run. They are enjoying Distance learning since they get to spend more time with their dogs. I am a veterinarian at the Ely Veterinary Clinic, where I see predominantly small animals along with some wildlife and equine patients.
What other races have you completed to qualify for the marathon?
Beargrease mid-distance – multiple including 2004 4th place
Beargrease Marathon – including 2nd place 2005, 3rd place 200), 2nd place 2019
Iditarod 2008 – most inspirational musher award for overcoming adversity with a positive attitude
How many lead dogs in your team?
Six
Who are your dog handlers?
Jake Leingang
What is your age as of Jan 25, 2020?
40
Kennel name
Manitou Crossing Kennels
How can people find you on social media?
Rig size
40′
Who are your sponsors?
Wintergreen designs and Howling Dog Alaska
What inspired you to start running sled dogs and how old were you when you started?
My mother had a team of dogs before I was born. When I was 8 yrs old, Santa gave me a dog sled and a few of her old leaders came back to form my first dog team!
