MUNISING – In a disappointing turn of events, the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association (UP200) announced the cancellation of the highly anticipated UP200, Midnight Run, and Jack Pine 30 sled dog races originally scheduled for February 16-18, 2024. The decision was made due to deteriorating trail conditions and concerns for the safety of mushers and their canine companions.
Darlene Walch, President of UP200, expressed her regret in a statement, citing the challenging weather conditions that have plagued sled dog races across the Midwest this winter. “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.”
The cancellation marks a significant blow to the mushers, volunteers, sponsors, and the board who have invested months of hard work and preparation. Walch extended her gratitude to the community for their ongoing support and understanding during this challenging time.
In an effort to salvage the spirit of the event, UP200 is pivoting to a festival format. The “Festival of the Sled Dog Powered by NMU” is set to take place on Friday, February 16th, in downtown Marquette. The event promises to feature a festive atmosphere with the iconic arch, snowy streets for sledding, sled dog demonstrations, live music, and various other activities.
Walch emphasized, “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. Thank you to everyone for your flexibility and understanding, and we hope to see you at the Festival of the Sled Dog!”
For additional details on the festival, residents are encouraged to follow UP200 on social media and stay tuned to local media outlets. For media inquiries, contact Darlene Walch, President of the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association, at (906) 362-3989 or via email at media@up200.org.
While the cancellation of the sled dog races is undoubtedly a disappointment for the community, the transition to a festival format demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of the UP200 organizers in the face of challenging circumstances. The Munising community is encouraged to come together to support this alternative celebration of sled dog culture and the enduring spirit of the UP200.
