John Beargease Sled Dog Marathon Moved Due To Snow Conditions

DULUTH, Minn.(KVRR/KFGO) – John Beargease Sled Dog Marathon’s start location moved due to warm temperatures melting the snow.

The 40th anniversary of the race, which was originally slated to begin at Billy’s in Duluth, will now start just north of Two Harbors on March 2nd.

Deteriorating snow conditions prompted the change.

Mike Keyport, president of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, said weather always plays a role in sled dog racing, and the recent warm temperatures have made conditions at the original start line unsuitable for the race. He said, “There is virtually no snow as of right now.”

Last year, organizers had to cancel the race due to a lack of snow. This year’s race was delayed until March due to a loss of snowpack.

The marathon has been a staple along the North Shore since 1980. The 300-mile course is a qualifier for the Iditarod.