The sled dog race is shorter than other years, but interest has increased. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

Premier Event

Canadian Challenge registration full with long waiting list

Nov 18, 2020 | 1:22 PM

Interest in the Canadian Challenge Sled Dog Race has increased exponentially as the Canada-United States border remains closed.

The event, which is scheduled to start Feb. 17, has had a large boost in mushers looking to compete. Both races are already full with five registered for the 71-kilometre six-dog race and 20 signed up for the 322-km 10-dog race. There’s an additional 14 mushers on the waiting list for the longer race and a few more for the shorter one.

In 2019, out of three races, there were 17 mushers with none on a waiting list.

“Quite a few are coming from the East like Ontario or Quebec,” Canadian Challenge Chairperson Stefaan De Marie said. “Usually, they go into the United States for racing, but due to the numbers there and the border closing, there’s not too many races they can choose from. I think that’s a big reason why they are coming this way.”

For 2020, the longer 538-km 12-dog race was cancelled and mushers won’t be going through Grandmother’s Bay or Stanley Mission. The usual eight-dog race was also altered into a 10-dog race, but will still end in La Ronge. De Marie noted the decision was made to shorten the race because of a drop in sponsorship revenue.

RPCN Artist

'Felt like a movie': Chris Chipak making waves in the art world

6h ago

strong reputation

North Battleford wins gold in provincial volleyball championship

7h ago

regular meeting

Crime reduction a strategic priority for town council moving foward

7h ago

De Marie mentioned it’s difficult to plan for the potential cancellation of the Canadian Challenge due to rising numbers of the coronavirus and a review of sporting activities in the province. He said the decision to move forward with the race would have to occur in January at the latest because trail preparation needs to begin that month.

“I’m feeling confident and hoping that we still can,” De Marie said. “I would feel bad if we put a lot of effort in there and we can’t organize it. The trail work takes quite a bit of dedication.”

If the race does occur, De Marie added other restrictions would also likely be in place such as the potential isolation of mushers prior to the race and special efforts at social distancing while at checkpoints.

Those interested in volunteering during the event are encouraged to reach out to Canadian Challenge officials via their website or Facebook page.

–

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno