Granite

Granite is the greatest lead dog in history, but that wasn't always a given.  As a puppy, Granite was small and shy.  Even though he lacked self-confidence, he had a spark of potential ready to ignite.  All he needed was for someone to believe in him, to encourage him day after day, and to show him that the best leaders are found in unlikely places.  That person was Susan Butcher.  While training with Susan for the Iditarod, a 1,000 mile race across Alaska, Granite suddenly falls deathly ill.  The veterinarians say he will never be strong enough to run another race.  Granite and Susan refuse to accept this.  With her faith and his dedication, he begins to recover.  Granite trains every day and finally convinces his teammates, doctors, and competitors that he is strong enough to race. Susan returns him to the lead, but still, she worries that he might not be able to finish the race.  After days on the trail, with Granite guiding the team into first place, they are suddenly caught in a raging, Arctic blizzard.  Now Susan and  her dog team are depending on Granite to guide them through the storm. He must summon all of his inner strength and courage to bring them safely across the finish line.