Jamaica Dogsled Team is sending Newton Marshall to the pinnacle of
world-class competitions, the 1,770-kilometre Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Among those rooting for the 26-year-old musher is Margaritaville icon
Jimmy Buffet, who spends a lot of time in Jamaica and has been the team's
primary sponsor since it was founded by a friend.
FYI to those who snort at Marshall as a publicity stunt: last year he completed
the 1,600-kilometre Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race. Out of 29 mushers,
the rookie placed a respectable 13th.
Marshall, who lives in Jamaica's St. Anne Parish, said he is impatient to begin the
Iditarod, which kicks off with a ceremonial start in Anchorage on Saturday. The
competitive race begins Sunday in Willow, 80 kilometres to the north.