LU Distance Learning professor Rodney Whaley talks about the Great Race

Army Master Sergeant Rodney Whaley, a Liberty University Distance Learning professor, shared his first-time experience in the 2008 Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in Alaska at Monday’s convocation service.

Rodney Whaley, of Franklin, Tenn., was the first Tennessean to enter the Iditarod, which was held last month. His main sponsor was the Army National Guard. Liberty University was also named as one of his sponsors.

Whaley is the brother of Dr. Vernon Whaley, director of LU’s Center for Worship.

Rodney Whaley thanked LU students and staff for prayer and support leading up to and during the race. He presented Liberty with a framed poster featuring him and his dog sled team.

Whaley ended the 1,150-mile Great Race early out of concern for the health of his dogs. Several had become sick while on the trail.

Liberty Journal interviewed Whaley while he was training in Michigan in November: https://issuu.com/libertyuniversity/docs/lj_jan-feb_2008/1?e=4413175/3662437.