|
|
Above, sled dogs seem happiest when they are running down a wooded trail with their fellow mates and musher guiding them. Mushers put booties on their dogs’ feet to protect them from cold, sharp snow or wet snow that will pack between the dog’s toes. Staff photos Brian Larsen
It’s back! After being canceled last year the popular Gunflint Mail Run Sled Dog Races will be held Saturday, January 8. The two events start and finish at Trail Center on Poplar Lake.
But, say organizers, they need helpers.
“We’ve had a good response so far, but we’ve still got close to 40 slots to fill over the next few weeks. Gather a group of friends or family and consider signing up online by following the link below. Thanks everyone and think snow!”
A lottery opened on November 1 to fill 30 slots.
With teams entered in either the 12-dog, 100-mile race or in the 8-dog, 65-mile race, there is bound to be plenty of exciting action to watch.
The 100-mile race completes two 50-mile loops on snowmobile trails from Trail Center to Devil Track Lake and back. After the first loop mushers and teams get a six-hour break and then repeat the same loop.
The first 12-dog team will leave the starting line at 8 a.m. The first 8-dog team will leave at 9 a.m. By early afternoon teams will arrive back at Trail Center. Once back at Trail Center the 8-dog teams will have a three-hour layover while the 12-dog teams will have a four-hour layover.
After a good, long run dogs eat and then sleep or rest on straw beds. Mushers go to extra lengths to make sure their dogs are well-cared for at rest stops, or for that matter, on the trail during a race.
By evening the 8-dog teams will finish at Trail Center and by late night (and through the night) the 12-dog teams will finish. An awards banquet for mushers, handlers, vets and officials will be held at Trail Center at 10 a.m. on Sunday.
If you would like to help with the race, please go to signup.com/go/Zoboogm.
Leave a Reply