MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – The UP Sled Dog Association (UPSDA) board announced it is canceling the UP200, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30 races for the second year in a row due to poor trail conditions and inadequate weather.
UPSDA board member Ross Anthony tells WZMQ there is not enough snow to support the races on the hundreds of miles of trails through the UP, and the weather forecast for the next ten days predicting warm temperatures and rain will only further cause the trails to deteriorate. He said safety for the dogs and teams is the board’s top priority, and the current conditions could be harmful to the animals.
The organization is moving forward with the Festival of the Sled Dog- Powered by NMU, a community celebration of the UP200 races that will take place in Downtown Marquette at the intersection of Washington St. and Third St. on Friday, Feb. 16. More information will be released on this event in the coming days.
Last year, a festival was quickly organized after it was determined the race would be unsafe due to rain. Snow was hauled into Washington St. for about 48 hours to allow for sled rides, refreshments and entertainment.
WZMQ 19 is a media partner and community sponsor of the UP200, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30 races. We will continue forward with a special Festival of the Sled Dog- Powered by NMU broadcast on Friday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. live from Downtown Marquette.
This is a developing story. WZMQ will continue to provide information as we learn more.
To stay up to date on the UP200, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30, check out the Facebook page and website.
You can read the full press release from the UPSDA below:
Due to deteriorating trail conditions and concern for the safety of mushers and dogs, the UP200 has canceled the UP200, Midnight Run and Jack Pine 30 scheduled for February 16-18, 2024.
“Sled dog races across the Midwest have been canceled this winter due to lack of snow and warm temperatures. That being the case, we were even more determined to hold our races for mushers and the community, but the current conditions have made the choice for us. Safety is our top priority and given the lack of snow and the warm temperatures, we cannot offer a safe race. We will make the best of a difficult situation however.” says Darlene Walch, UP200 president.
“Festival of the Sled Dog Powered by NMU” will take place on Friday, February 16th in downtown Marquette. Watch for additional details on UP200 social media and in the local media. The arch will be up, the streets will be filled with snow for sledding and there will be sled dog demos, meaning: there will be sled dogs! There will also be live music and other activities.
“We appreciate the support of the community as we pivot to a festival format. This is a difficult decision to make after the months of work already put in by mushers, volunteers, sponsors and our board.” said Walch. “Thank you to everyone for your flexibility and understanding and we hope to see you at Festival of the Sled Dog!”
