Seavey's victory came after a dueling sprint against Aliy Zirkle, last year's runner-up, along the frozen, wind-whipped Bering Sea coast toward Nome.

NPR: 53-Year-Old Musher Becomes Oldest Iditarod Champ

Before reaching their destination, the teams will cross mountains, frozen rivers and forests before hitting the wind-pummeled coast.

NPR: Iditarod Kicks Off With Festive Ceremonial Start