John Beargrease Sled Dog Race Postponed for 2nd Year in a Row

NORTHERN MINNESOTA – Unusual winter weather has yet again postponed the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon for a second year.

All three races –  the 40-miler, the 120 miler, and the 300-mile marathon – were originally scheduled for January 26. But today, the board of directors announced on social media that the race will be postponed to March 2.

The board made this decision after assessing trail conditions and the lack of snowfall and icy terrain along the 300-mile course.

This is the second consecutive year the race has been impacted by the weather. 

In a news release, the Beargrease board president Mike Keyport said, “ We are heartbroken that, once again, weather – a factor entirely out of our control – has impacted our plans. However, the safety of the dogs and mushers remains out unwavering priority, and we are determined to ensure that the rescheduled race continues to honor the spirit and legacy of the Beargrease.”

This year’s race will be the event’s 40th running. The race honors the legacy of John Beargrease, who rode by the north shore, via dog sled team, delivering mail between Two Harbors and Grand Marias in the late 1800s.

The Beargrease is a qualifier for the Iditarod in Alaska.