Nationality: 

Czech/American

Age:

55

Occupation:

Clerk

Personal Website:

www.wiljeswillowkennel.com

Facebook:

Misha Wiljes

Instagram:

Twitter:

Kennel Name:

WW Kennel

Breeds included:

Alaskan Husky

Number of dogs in kennel:

24

Number of years running dogs:

23

How did your kennel get its name?

WW stand for Wiljes Willow

How did you get started running dogs?

I was a handler for Charlie Boulding

What do you love most about dog sledding?

Sharing the trail with my team and facing the challenges

Please share any interesting stories or facts about your dogs that will be running in the 2024 race:

My special dog Copper, he is from Fairbanks Animal Shelter. He is still a little bit unsure around tall males but he fit right into our team from the start and got great performance. Most of our dogs are from well known bloodlines, but few are from animal shelters. We are so happy and lucky that they all blend right into the team.

Are you a member of any other organizations in sled dog sports?

Willow Dog Mushers

Why did you enter the 2024 Yukon Quest and what are your goals for the race?

I miss the Yukon Territory for some time and I’m very excited to see the Yukon Quest trail again. Goal is to have some fun with the dogs and bring them happy and healthy to the finish line.

Do you listen to music on the trail? If so, what types?

I don’t listen to music, just the nature around

How did your dogs get their names?

I usually theme names, or according to their appearance

Share a quick story about one of your indispensable handlers:

Beside my always caring husband with almost unlimited patience, my other helper is Kerry. She acts also as our kennel secretary and keeping an eye on smooth race preparation.

Tell us about your favorite volunteer experience on the trail:

A big thank you to ALL volunteers and vets, without volunteers the races would not be possible

List recent sled dog races and/or your best performances:

Year		Race		Finishing Position
2023		Copper Basin 300		14th
2021		Summit Quest 300		9th
2019		Yukon Quest 1000		26th
2018		Iditarod		45th
2017		Iditarod		54th

Who are your sponsors for 2024?

My husband, family, and friends