Independent Lens: Attla

Photo: George Attla

Credit: Rob Stapleton

Discovering the inspiring story of legendary Alaska native dogsled racer George Attla.

Attla tells the gripping but little-known story of George Attla, an Alaska Native dogsled racer who, with one good leg and fierce determination, became a legendary sports hero in Northern communities around the world. Part dog whisperer, part canny businessman and part heartthrob, Attla rose to international fame during a unique period of history when Western education, economies, and culture penetrated the Alaskan village lifestyle and forever changed the state with the discovery of oil in the late 1960s. The film interweaves the story of Attla’s racing career into the final chapter of his life, as he emerges from retirement to train his 20-year-old grandnephew to compete in one of the world’s most popular sprint dogsled races. Directed by Catharine Axley, Independent Lens: Attla premieres Monday, December 16, 2019 at 10 p.m. on WXXI-TV.