Von Martin was born at Camp Pendleton Marine Base in Oceanside,
California. He is a member of the Pacific Northwest’s Writer’s
Association and a graduate of the University of Hawaii where he
was an instructor in Anthropology. Von has enjoyed professional
careers as a carpenter, musician, singer, writer, and reporter.
Von is the Vice President of the Northwest Sled Dog Association.
He has logged thousands of happy miles with his dog teams throughout
five western states, British Columbia, and recreational runs in
Alaska.
Today, he works from his one room log cabin home as a construction
news journalist in rural southwest Washington where he enjoys
caring for his extended “family” 17 of sled dogs.
Von is married to Judy, a native of Washington state. Von was
first introduced to the world of sled dogs in 1992 by an Alaskan
Malamute named Wolfie, who forever changed his life. By 1997,
Von was involved in mid distance racing and extended weekend training
and camping runs with his dogs. According to Von they have been
“the best years of my life”. When asked about his
huskies, Von explains, “My ambition is to give each of my
dogs the life they were born to have. In an era of high technology
and fast paced living, running dogs is a wonderful opportunity
to preserve an ancient tradition, as well as to foster the immeasurable
value of human/canine kinships, while maintaining a connection
to our natural environment”.
Youtube -ing
On October 7th, 2005, Von Martin
and wife Judy had the great pleasure of meeting and spending the
afternoon with one of his all time heroes, Col. Norman Vaughan,
to discuss the dogs under Col. Vaughan’s care during Byrd’s
1928 Antarctic expedition. When asked to list his own reasons
for becoming part of Col. Norman Vaughan’s Serum Run ‘25
expedition, Von adds, “Participating in the 2009 Serum Run
‘25 would fulfill my sincere desire to become part of Norman
Vaughan’s vision and to answer his call. Running in the
footsteps of those hearty dogs of 1925, together with their drivers,
will bring an appreciation of their accomplishments that can be
known in no other way”.
Von Martin offers comfort to team
dog "Boomer" during the 2008 Cascade Quest For more
information, please
visit Von Martin’s website at: www.CalloftheWildHuskies.com
