Beargrease Organizers Prepare for New Events
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DULUTH - In less than one week, sled dogs and mushers will fill the Duluth area to kick off the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.
The race was at risk for cancellation earlier this year, but now the new organizers couldn't be more excited for the coming week.
It's the 30 year anniversary of the Beargrease, and this year the goal for organizers is to get the youth involved.
They're adding a brand new youth sled dog race called The Cub Run.
It'll be a two mile run Saturday morning at Blackbear Casino.
The race is geared to get the youth involved in mushing at an early age.
There are four racers registered for The Cub Run including one from Canada.
“This is what winter's about,” expressed Beargrease official Linda Nervick. “This event is really unique to our community because it's our neighbors and friends.”
If you plan on heading to the start of the race Sunday morning, Beargrease officials are offering a free shuttle.
It'll go from UMD's “W- lot” located off Junction Avenue.
Busses will run every 35 minutes to Ordean Stadium.
If you can't travel to Duluth, but still want to keep up with your favorite racer, this year all sleds will have a GPS tracker on them.
Officials say it's a good opportunity for friends and family to keep track of their favorite musher.
Also new at the starting line this year, is a traditional Native American ceremony to kick off the race.
“We'll have a drum ceremony which is really special,” Nervick said. “We haven't had this drum ceremony out with the racers. Right before we leave we'll do a beautiful native drum ceremony.”
Friday night, East High School will be transformed into the starting line.
Roads will be covered in snow, bleachers will be put up, and the trail through the city will be groomed.
The teams will go from Greyhound Drive through the Northland Country Club into Hawks Ridge.
They will hit their first checkpoint at Billy’s Bar off Jean Duluth Road.
Race officials are still looking for last minute volunteers.
If you’re interested in volunteering, the final meeting is Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. on the third floor of Fitgers.