Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
LA RONGE — The Canadian Dog Sled Race returned to La Ronge this past weekend, marking its 27th running since launching in 1996 and drawing competitors from across Canada and the United States.
The annual event, which began in 1996, has seen a few cancellations due to lack of snow and COVID-19 but continues to be a staple of Saskatchewan’s winter sports calendar, according to Dan Kirkland, vice-president of the Canadian Dog Sled Race organization.
Kirkland, who also competed as a musher, said the race has evolved significantly over the years.
“It started as a 12-dog 300-mile race,” he said. “Other categories were added and adjusted over the years depending on the demand from the mushing community.”
This year, 13 competitors registered — 11 in the 10-dog, 342-kilometre qualifier and two in the six-dog, 70-mile race. Mushers travelled from British Columbia, Ontario and Saskatchewan, as well as Utah and Iowa.
Kirkland explained that the 342-km qualifier follows the same rules as the regular 10-dog race, with one key difference.
“The big difference is no outside assistance,” he said. “Those mushers cannot have anyone helping them once the race starts. From feeding and caring for their dogs, to caring for themselves, it is all their responsibility.”
He added the qualifier is designed to prepare teams for longer-distance events such as the Iditarod.
The race began in La Ronge, travelled to Weyakwin and returned to the starting point. About 30 spectators were on hand for the start.
Volunteer board member Sarah Debrion said the 200-mile race was continuous, with mandatory rest periods built in, while the 70-mile event was split into two stages over two days.
Jesse Terry claimed victory in the 10-dog race, while Derek Konga won the six-dog category. Both received cash prizes.
Debrion noted two Saskatchewan mushers competed this year — Stefaan de Marie and Konga — though participants came from across Canada and the U.S.
Kirkland also highlighted the involvement of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan.
Not only does the college provide medication for the dogs, he said, but it also serves as a hands-on learning opportunity for fourth-year veterinary students.
“We had four students this year, who worked alongside a licensed veterinarian,” Kirkland said, adding the placement is considered one of the most sought-after field experiences.
The next event on the circuit is the Torch River Run in Christopher Lake, scheduled for this weekend.
