Following a Saturday ceremonial start, mushers quickly regroup their dog teams and reorganize trail necessities for the following day's "official start" of the race in Willow, Alaska, 79 miles north of Anchorage.
Kerry made his official announcement after months on the campaign trail, but at a time when his candidacy is facing a stiff challenge from his Democratic rivals -- particularly former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean.
"For the last couple of weeks and months (Lebanese authorities) have been hot on the trail of individual suspects responsible for attacks on Western franchises, " the U.S. official added.