Joe Runyan

Ramey Smyth's reputation as a legendary closer only raised the odds for a close finish, says former champ Joe Runyan.

Kotzebue's John Baker and Wasilla's Ramey Smyth, two highly respected veteran Iditarod racers, are in a battle that could conceivably end with a photo finish.

As the 900-mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race nears the last, mandatory rest stop at White Mountain just southeast of the Nome finish line, Kotzebue's John Baker clings to the race lead over the tenacious team of driver Ramey Smyth from Wasilla and his determined huskies.