Sled Dogs Race in Subzero Temperatures at 41st Beargrease Marathon

The 41st annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon kicked off on March 10, 2024, from Rice Lake, Minnesota, where a crowd braved subzero temperatures to witness the thrilling event. The race, featuring 22 marathon teams, began at the traditional starting point at Billy’s, a local bar, after moving to Two Harbors in 2023 due to snow conditions. Last year, the race was canceled entirely because of a lack of snow, making this year’s return particularly significant.

Race spokesperson Mike Keyport, who also serves as the president of the board of directors, noted the trail’s conditions. “It’s going to be a hard-packed trail, so I expect it to be a little bit faster, possibly,” he said. Participants set off on a challenging 300-mile trek along the scenic North Shore, heading towards Two Harbors.

Among the competitors was last year’s first-place winner, Erin Aili from Ray, Minnesota. “It’s hard standing here waiting for the go sign,” Aili remarked, expressing her eagerness to return to the trails. “The dogs really like to run. You can tell by the excitement, the noise, the commotion, and happy wagging tails that they’re just as excited as we are to go.” Aili, prepared for the cold, expressed her preference for this year’s temperatures compared to last year’s milder conditions.

Fellow racer Mary England and her husband Jesse Terry traveled from Sioux Lookout, Canada, and echoed Aili’s sentiments about the weather. “I’m mostly excited about the conditions; this is perfect sled dog weather,” England stated. She highlighted the camaraderie among participants and spectators, emphasizing that the atmosphere keeps them returning year after year.

New to the Beargrease this year is Anna Hennessy, who has raced in Alaska but grew up in Minnesota hearing stories about the event. After moving back to Minnesota, she began training for the marathon. “I’m just excited that so many people in Duluth show up to watch the dogs and cheer even when it’s this cold out,” Hennessy remarked.

The starting area was also bustling with participants in shorter races, including the 120-mile and 40-mile events. Lucy Howe, a Michigan Tech student, was preparing for the 120-mile race. With previous experience in shorter races, she expressed confidence but acknowledged the typical nerves that come with competition. “We’ve been training really hard, going out three times a week,” Howe shared.

The Freking family, known in the racing community, was well-represented, with members competing across all three distances. Thirteen-year-old Nicole Freking prepared for the 40-mile race, discussing the careful planning required to manage dog health and appropriate clothing given the cold temperatures.

Despite the freezing conditions, spectators filled the starting area, cheering for the racers as they took off. Sam Homann, who traveled three hours to attend, recalled her first experience with the race years ago. “It was a three-hour drive, but my mom didn’t mind. She’s adventurous like that,” Homann said. “I’ve been away for a few years, but when I moved closer, I knew I had to come back again. It’s just such a great atmosphere.”

Among the fans was Pam Hermanson, who held a sign in support of marathon racer Colleen Wallin. “She’s my absolute favorite. I’m a big fan,” Hermanson said. She and her husband, Dave, made the journey from Oregon, marking their vacation around the event. “Though after the cold today, we’ve decided we’re going to Hawaii next year.”

As the excitement of the Beargrease marathon unfolded, the challenges of the race showcased the spirit of both the competitors and the community, reaffirming the event’s place in the hearts of sled dog racing enthusiasts.