The 2021-22 mushing season kicks off tomorrow, December 4th, with the annual Season Opener. A deep field of 25 teams have signed up for the event, the most we've had for a local race in recent years. With fresh snow falling today and warmer temps forecast for tomorrow it promises to be a great start to the racing season!
The 32-mile race will begin with a mass start at 11am on Charles Family Lake, which is located across the street from H-Marker Lake. From the start line they will run the Atmautluak trail for approximately 16 miles then follow a well marked loop that passes in front of the village of Atmautluak. Teams will then return on the same trail and finish at Charles Family Lake. Full race rules below.
Spectators are welcome but if coming to the start by truck, we ask that you please park on the road and walk down to the lake. It's going to be crowded out there with 25 dog teams and their vehicles. We urge spectators to practice social distancing. In compliance with the City of Bethel's mask mandate, if gathered with people who are not part of your household and social distancing is not possible, masks are required.
Full vaccination against Covid-19 is required for all mushers, handlers and race personnel.
Race Rules:
1. The race will be a mass start at 11:00 AM at Charles Family Lake.
2. Eight dog limit.
3. No dropped dogs.
4. General passing rules apply. When any team approaches to within 50 feet of another team, the team behind has the immediate right of way upon demand. The racer ahead must stop their dogs and hold them to the best of their ability for a maximum of one minute or until the other team has passed, whichever occurs first. The passed team must remain behind at least 15 minutes before demanding the trail. The race officials may penalize a team if this rule is violated. “No Man’s Land” will be marked by two K300 stakes about a mile from the finish.
5. No pacing by snow machine. There may be an official snow machine pacing the field in the early part of the trail to show all teams the proper trail, and also perhaps at other points on the trail as needed.
6. Mushers must be a current member of the K300 to participate in this race. Membership may be purchased for $100.
