Gunflint Mail Run organizers postpone annual sled dog race and encourage the public to “do your snow dance”

With the ongoing absence of snow across the Northland, the Gunflint Mail Run organizers have officially postponed the annual sled dog race scheduled for Jan. 6.

Organizer Cathy Quinn told WTIP on Dec. 26 that it was a tough call to make, but with the lack of snow, there wasn’t “a lot of choice” on the matter.

Quinn said the organizers are still waiting to announce an alternative date, given that the remainder of Dec. does not have any snow in the forecast.

“At this time, we’ve got a few more pieces of the puzzle that we need to get in place before we can solidify (or) confirm that alternative date,” she said. “So stay tuned.”

The 65-mile race along the Gunflint Trail was initially scheduled for Jan. 6 and is a welcomed tradition for many as it signals the start of the sled dog racing season in northern Minnesota.  

As the race organizers explore alternative dates, Quinn said they will be mindful of other mushing races in the region and the availability of a veterinarian team and volunteer schedules.

“I hope within a week, we’ll be able to announce the date,” she said. “Now we just need to keep hoping for snow.”

 Quinn said the best way to stay up to date on Gunflint Mail Run updates is by visiting the Gunflint Mail Run website. In addition, she said the organizers will notify the public via Facebook and WTIP when an alternative date is set. “Just hang tight. Do your snow dances. Whatever it takes to make go of it here.” 

WTIP spoke with Cathy Quinn, an organizer of the Gunflint Mail Run, about the postponed sled dog race and the outlook for the winter.

Kalli Hawkins December 26, 2023