<P> Despite widespread skepticism, the trail was cleared and a total of $51,325 was raised . In 1973, Dick Wilmarth of Red Devil, Alaska, and his lead sled dog Hotfoot beat a pack of 34 mushers who competed in the race to Nome . Negative publicity caused by the death of several dogs during the race reduced the purse to only $31,000 in 1974, but the event still attracted a field of 44 mushers . In 1975, the race instituted stronger dog care requirements, and a corporate sponsor raised the purse back to $50,000 . Despite more negative publicity and funding problems in 1976, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race has since grown into the premiere sporting event in the state, and the largest dog sled race in the world . </P> <P> This popularity also caused dog mushing to revive in the 1970s as a recreational sport . Largely due to Redington's efforts, the Iditarod was designated one of the first four National Historic Trails in 1978, and the first official trail marker was put up outside his home in 1980 . </P> <P> Redington became known as the "Father of the Iditarod" for his work promoting the race, and personally competed in seventeen Iditarods from 1974 to 1997, but never placed higher than fifth . Including a 5th - place finish at the age of 72! He was the honorary musher in the 1997 race, as he was 80 years old when he completed the race . Joe also organized and ran 5 Iditarod Challenges, a guided trip to Nome for paying clients, 1993 - 1997 . </P> <P> Redington died on June 24, 1999 from cancer, and was buried in his favorite dog sled in Wasilla, Alaska . A memorial with a life - size bronze statue was unveiled nearby at the Iditarod Trail Committee Headquarters, on February 1, 2003 . </P>

Why is joe redington the father of the iditarod
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