Live Auction

For the women’s and men’s races, additional race spots are offered through an online auction on April 28 and a live auction and raffle July 3.
There is no auction for the juniors race.

The Live Auction Process — July 3

Seven race slots are auctioned for both the men’s and women’s races.  Competition can be fierce, yet fun, with auction bids beginning at $100-200 and going as high as $4,000 for a single spot — though winning prices have been much lower in recent years.

  • The auction, conducted by long-time auctioneer Steve Lemme of Seward, begins at 6 p.m. at the Seward High School gymnasium and is open to anyone age 18 and older that has completed the entire course in training or racing.
  • Applicants not selected in the lottery are eligible to participate, as well as individuals who did not previously apply.
  • Those participating in the auction must be present and cannot designate another individual to participate in their stead.
  • Payment is required immediately and may be made by cash or credit card.
  • Live Auction is sponsored by Summit View Lodge!

The Raffle Process

Prior to the live auction on July 3, one slot for the men’s or women’s race is drawn in a raffle. Typically the raffle proceeds are donated to the Seward Community Foundation, an organization that distributes funds to nonprofits in Seward or Moose Pass. Previous recipients include the Seward Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Seward Fire Department, Seward Senior Center, Alaska SeaLife Center and Seward’s food pantry. Donations have ranged from $500 to more than $2,000.
In 2025, the raffle proceeds with be donated to Qutekcak Native Tribe in Seward.

  • The raffle is open to anyone age 18 and older that has completed the entire course in training or racing. Junior racers are NOT eligible.
  • Applicants not selected in the lottery are eligible to participate, as well as individuals who did not previously apply.
  • Those participating in the raffle must be present and cannot designate another individual to participate in their stead.
  • There is no limit on the number of tickets an individual may purchase.
  • Tickets for the raffle may be purchased for $10 each from 5:00-6:00 p.m. on July 3. Payment is required immediately and may be made by cash or credit card.