Mushers and pups embrace Arctic air in John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
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The 41st John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon got underway on Sunday morning.
The rugged, 300-mile race runs through the north woods from Duluth up the North Shore to Grand Portage and back.
Mike Keyport is Beargrease board president, a member of the Grand Portage Band of Lake and Superior Chippewa and a descendant of the race’s namesake. He’s also emergency management director with Cook County. Keyport joined Cathy Wurzer on Morning Edition to preview the tradition.
Regarding the subzero temperatures, Keyport said, “The dogs and the mushers love it. The spectators, not quite so much.”
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Unlike last year, when the race had to be delayed until March due to a lack of snowpack, there’s plenty of snow on the ground right now. A recent storm dropped an extra 5-7 inches, and the trail boss gave Keyport the thumbs-up. But the freezing temperatures make the groomed trails hard on the dogs’ feet. That means booties and maybe a few dog-sized jackets, Keyport said.
“The jackets aren't as popular because with their heavy fur, it makes them sweat a little bit, and you don't really want that to happen either,” he explained.
Keyport is confident the cold won’t deter spectators, either.
“We're tough here in Minnesota,” he said.
The marathon begins Sunday. Follow sled dog teams’ progress online.
Listen to the conversation by clicking the player button above.
