FORT KENT, Maine – In light of the recent cancellations of several prominent sled dog races across the Midwest due to inadequate snowfall, the organizers of the Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races in Aroostook County are excited to extend a warm (yet snowy) invitation to mushers and sled dog racing enthusiasts. The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon and Tahquamenon County Sled Dog Race in Michigan, the Lake Minnetonka Klondike Dog Derby in Minnesota, and the Eagle Cap Extreme Sled Dog Race in Oregon might have faced Mother Nature’s unpredictability, but the Can-Am Crown stands resilient, ready to welcome participants with open arms and pristine trails.
Can-Am Crown President Dennis Cyr said, “Yes, for the past 31 years we have run quality races no matter what Mother Nature throws at us. Here in Northern Maine we yearly average 10 feet of snowfall. This year we are a bit behind on that total but with a couple of snowstorms in January and February we will be all set, Our race is on!”
He added, “We invite all sled dogs, and of course their musher friends, hoping and dreaming to run in the snow, to venture to Northern Maine and enjoy one of the best organized sled dog events in the racing world.”
The Can-Am Crown, slated to launch from Main Street in Fort Kent on March 2, promises not only a competitive and thrilling race experience but also a chance for the racing community to come together in a celebration of this beloved winter sport. The event has garnered a global reputation for its challenging yet beautiful trails, and this year is no exception.
Sarah Brooks, Can-Am Crown vice president, said “The Can-Am community and surrounding areas are ready to welcome mushers from all over with welcome arms. We want to be able to give mushers the opportunity to compete in their beloved sport and to have the opportunity to have a race where they can put all of their training hours to use. We especially welcome all of the superb canine athletes that will be traveling through our great North Maine Woods.”
Though the Can-Am 250 is a qualifier for the Iditarod in Alaska, the Crown is more than just a race. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of winter sports enthusiasts and the unbreakable bond between mushers and their sled dogs. With its reliable snow conditions and welcoming atmosphere, the Can-Am Crown stands as a beacon of hope and excitement in a season marked by uncertainty for many in the sled dog racing world.
The community of Fort Kent encourages mushers interested in participating to visit can-am-crown.net for more information and to register. The Can-Am Crown team is dedicated to providing an exceptional racing experience and looks forward to welcoming new and returning participants to the snowy trails of Aroostook County.
