Meet Dereck “DJ” Starr, a seasoned musher from Tanana/Huslia, Alaska. He embodies the spirit and resilience of his home state through his passion for dog mushing. As a construction manager by day, DJ balances his professional life with his love for the trail. Supported by sponsors such as Edwin Bifelt and Alaska Native Renewable Industries, DJ is poised to make a significant mark on the dog mushing community.
For DJ, dog mushing is more than just a sport; his journey began unexpectedly when he took care of his father-in-law’s dogs while he was out of town. This experience ignited a passion that was deeply ingrained in him by his grandfather, Jake Starr, who instilled a profound love for dogs. Over the past seven years, DJ has developed a close bond with his dogs and has grown his kennel, Dakli Flats Kennels, to a 24 dog kennel.
One of DJ’s favorite aspects of mushing is the opportunity to connect with nature. He finds immense satisfaction in being out in the remote Alaskan wilderness, where the relationship between musher and dogs is essential for survival and success. This reliance on one another fosters a deep mutual respect and trust that DJ cherishes above all.
DJ’s love for the Quest trail is a driving force behind his participation in the upcoming 2025 race. Known for its challenging and breathtaking terrain, the Quest offers him a chance to test his skills and endurance alongside his team. His personal goal for the race is to finish with happy, healthy dogs.
As he prepares for the race, DJ expresses heartfelt gratitude to his family, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in his mushing endeavors. He also pays tribute to the late Gerry Riley and Henry Beatus, esteemed mushers who truly believed in his potential. Their legacy, along with the encouragement from everyone in the Koyukuk and Yukon River Valley, propels DJ forward as he embraces the challenges and adventures that lie ahead on the Quest trail.