The Mile Club is a dedicated group of race fans who support the UP200, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30 by sponsoring a mile of the trail. Support from the Mile Club helps create safe and exciting races for dogs, mushers, and spectators— and helps us generate over $2 million in economic impact for our race communities.

John Kramer is a longtime Mile Club Member. We caught up with him recently to see why he chooses to travel to the races every year— and to support the races through his Mile Club membership.

How long have you been attending the UP200, Midnight Run and Jack Pine 30 and what do you enjoy most about the races?

I attended NMU from 1992 to 1996 and my interest and support of the race began while in college. My Delta Chi brothers and I attended the race events and enjoyed the spirit the race brought to Marquette. We were good for finding reasons to gather and raise a glass or four! I missed several races post graduation and then in 2013 I made a conscious effort to put an annual place holder on my calendar to attend. Selfishly, it allows me to enjoy the winter event in Marquette away from work. 

The city has changed since the 1990s and the race returns the feel of the Marquette I fell in love with during college. I enjoy the atmosphere the race provides to downtown and surrounding communities it touches. Portside Inn and The Vierling are my pre-start dinner places of choice and I am eager to hear where others have come from to view the race, and their ties to the city or the race. The race does a fantastic job of providing an event that appeals to all ages, and showcases the sport. Anyone who attends realizes the bond between the mushers with their dog athletes. This is evident by all aspects of the preparation and advocacy by UP200 and the execution on race weekend by teams and the volunteers.

What motivates you to support the races through your Mile Club Membership?

I support the race because I believe it is one of the most important tourism opportunities for the city. I am thrilled to hear that this past year that NMU took a key sponsorship role in the race. I financially support the race to allow others to enjoy this unique experience. If my support allows a tradition to continue then I am honored to continue my sponsorship of a portion of the the race.

Thank you, John, for your loyal support!

To become a Mile Club Member for the 2024 races, click here.