The Canadian Challenge Sled Dog Race is an event fondly looked forward to by many La Ronge residents. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

preparations underway

Trail work begins, prize purse increases for upcoming Canadian Challenge

Nov 18, 2025 | 4:42 PM

Trail work and registration are coming along for the upcoming Canadian Challenge Sled Dog race.

That’s according to Canadian Challenge Vice-President Dan Kirkup, who said part of the trail system crew members have been able to access is in good shape. There were some concerns earlier this year about the state of the trail, considering the wildfires that swept through the region in June.

“I don’t think it is as bad as we thought it might be because some of the areas didn’t see as much damage as others,” he explained.

“There are a few spots we know that are difficult, but they are difficult every year. We just can’t get to them until everything is frozen. It’s still going to be challenging, but I don’t think it is going to be as bad as I pictured.”

Work on the trail began in September, but activity has ramped up during the last two weeks. Kirkup noted the lack of snow in the La Ronge area has assisted in the clean-up as it has allowed volunteers to go in with quads and side-by-sides rather than snowmobiles.

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Individual Canadian Rangers, regular trail crew and some board members have been volunteering to clear the trails. They receive compensation for expenses such as fuel.

Kirkup also stated registration is getting busier and the prize purse has gone up to $16,000 compared to the $12,000 being offered at the beginning of September. He expects 12 to 15 teams to be registered for the Canadian Challenge by the start of the races on Feb. 17, 2026.

“I think there is a bit of hesitancy with people,” Kirkup remarked.

“The increased cost of living is a challenge, and that has impacted dog food and all the other expenses people incur, but also those who have been at the Challenge a few years in a row are looking at other options for the races. Does it make sense to travel to the US or not? Are teams from the US coming to Canada or not? Those are definitely factors in our registration.”

In 2026, the Canadian Challenge will offer a 10-dog 322-kilometer race, an eight-dog 161-km race, and a six-dog 113-km race. All races will take place between La Ronge and Weyakwin.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com