For the second straight year, Michigan's Upper Peninsula has had to call off its quintessential sled dog races due to what seems to quickly becoming the new norm: a shortage of snow and unusually warm temperatures. According to a statement obtained by MLive, the UP200, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30 races, originally slated to kick off mid-February, have been sidelined by the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association (UPSDA) over concerns of trail conditions and participant safety.
As the forecast doesn't appear to pivot to colder temps anytime soon, with predictions of rain adding to the misery, Ross Anthony, a board member of the UPSDA, confirmed to WZMQ 19 the decision was made out of necessity, emphasizing that the safety of the dogs and mushers takes precedence. "There is not enough snow to support the races on the hundreds of miles of trails through the UP," Anthony said, adding that the upcoming weather would only further harm the trails' condition.
But it's not all cold shoulders for sled dog racing fans; organizers have quickly adapted to the situation, redirecting efforts towards a community-centric affair. Dubbed the Festival of the Sled Dog, sponsored by Northern Michigan University, the event promises sled dog demonstrations, live tunes, and sledding fun for all ages. The festivities are scheduled to take place in downtown Marquette, as reported by UPMatters.
Despite having to swiftly pivot away from the traditional race format, the Festival of the Sled Dog aims to retain the vivacious spirit of the mushing community. "We appreciate the support of the community as we pivot to a festival format," UP200 president Darlene Walch told UPMatters, expressing gratitude for the understanding shown by mushers, volunteers, sponsors, and the board. She added, "Thank you to everyone for your flexibility and understanding and we hope to see you at Festival of the Sled Dog!"
