Due to deteriorating weather conditions and concern for the safety
of mushers, dogs, spectators and volunteers, the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog
Association has canceled this coming weekends races.
Safety is our top priority. Given the rain overnight, the impending flash freeze and the
lack of snow in this weeks forecast, it would be irresponsible to encourage mushers,
volunteers and spectators to be on the trail this weekend. We will make the best of a
difficult situation, says Darlene Walch, UPSDA president.
Festival of the Sled Dog Powered by NMU will replace the Friday night race start at
7pm. Watch for details on social media and in the local media. The arch will be up, the
streets will be filled with snow for sledding and sled dog demos meaning: there will be
dogs! Grand Marais is planning a Winter Fest on Saturday with food, bonfires, a raffle and silent auction and other fun activities. Stay tuned for more details for both locations.
In our 33 years of putting on these races, weve never had to cancel due to weather,
said Walch. This is a first for us and we appreciate the support of the community as we
pivot to a festival format. This is an incredibly difficult decision to make after the months
of work already put in by mushers, volunteers, sponsors and board. Thank you to
everyone for your flexibility and understanding. We hope to see you Friday night in
downtown Marquette and Saturday in Grand Marais.
