Due to deteriorating weather conditions and concern for the safety of mushers, dogs, spectators and volunteers, the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association has canceled all three races this weekend: the UP200 Powered by Northern Michigan University, Midnight Run and Jack Pine 30 and Midnight Run.
“Festival of the Sled Dog Powered by NMU” will replace the Friday night race start at 7 p.m. in downtown Marquette. The arch will be up, the streets will be filled with snow for sledding and there will be sled dog demos. Grand Marais is also adjusting its schedule of activities for Saturday. Details on both will be made available on social and traditional media.
“Safety is our top priority," said Darlene Walch, UPSDA president. "Given the rain overnight, the impending flash freeze and the lack of snow in this week's forecast, it would be irresponsible to encourage mushers, volunteers and spectators to be on the trail this weekend. We will make the best of a difficult situation.
“In our 33 years of putting on these races, we've never had to cancel due to weather. This is a first for us and we appreciate the support of the community as we pivot to a festival format. This is an incredibly difficult decision to make after the months of work already put in by mushers, volunteers, sponsors and board. Thank you to everyone for your flexibility and understanding. We hope to see you Friday night in downtown Marquette and Saturday in Grand Marais.”