UP200 organizers safely lead by example
From left, Enbridge’s Lauren Brown and Anna Mooney at the 2024 UP200.
Canceled race doesn’t dampen fun
Feb. 28, 2024
Cancelling one of the country’s premier mid-distance sled dog races wasn’t an easy decision, though organizers demonstrated yet again that safety comes first—always.
Drawing thousands from the United States and Canada, the UP200 event in Marquette, MI, serves as a qualifying round for The Iditarod, an annual long-distance sled dog race held in Alaska.
Downtown Marquette welcomes people to the 2024 UP200.
Citing a safe racing environment as paramount for the mushers and dogs, the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association (UPSDA) cancelled the event for only the second time since its inception 34 years ago.
Organizers issued a statement sharing that “The UP200 Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2024 races due to deteriorating trail conditions and an unseasonably warm extended forecast. As you may know, sled dog races across the Midwest have canceled this winter due to lack of snow. That being the case, we were even more determined to hold our races for mushers and the community, but the current conditions have made the choice for us. Safety is our top priority and given the lack of snow and the warm temperatures, we cannot offer a safe race.”
Mild winter temperatures continue this week for portions of the Great Lakes State.
Anna Mooney’s daughter Elizabeth and Lauren Brown get up close and personal with one of the sled dogs.
Festivities carry on
In announcing the cancellation, organizers reassured guests that plenty of fun awaited them in downtown Marquette at the Festival of the Sled Dog Powered by NMU.
The Marine Corps League Color Guard and Marquette Male Chorus kicked off the Feb. 16 event, which included music, sledding, a silent auction, and even a scavenger hunt. Guests also had opportunity to learn about dog-sled racing. Mushers were on hand to talk with guests, show their sleds and gear and share what it takes to run the trails.
“We applaud the UPSDA for setting an example that safety truly is priority,” said Lauren Brown, Enbridge community engagement advisor.
“That not only reflects Enbridge’s values, it also demonstrated to the thousands of attendees that they can be safe while enjoying our wonderful Michigan traditions.”
“Safety is also our main focus in operating Line 5 in the Straits,” continued Brown. “The pipeline is vital for Michigan and the region. Our mission is to keep energy flowing while protecting the precious waters of the Great Lakes, the environment and people.”
Brown, a native Michigander and Michigan resident, attended the various festivities, including the UP200 Business Chow and Chat Breakfast. Enbridge teamed with the Lake Superior Community Partnership to sponsor the event.
