The 22nd edition of Ivakkak Dog Sled Race will begin February 26 with participants racing along the Hudson Coast from Umiujaq to Chisasibi, a total distance of about 385 kms. The teams will pass through Kuujjuaraapik on their route.
After a vote by participants, it was decided that this year racers will compete solo, without partners.
First organized back in 2001 by Makivvik, Ivakkak was an attempt to reintroduce sled dogs back to Nunavik after the tradition was almost wiped out with the slaughter of Inuit husky dogs by the authorities in the 1950s and 1960s. Over the years racers have overcome challenging weather, snow conditions, and even a pandemic to come back strong for the 2024 edition.
Makivvik’s Vice-President Economic Development Andy Moorhouse said he is pleased that planning for this year’s event is well underway.
“The Ivakkak race is one of the key events we have in Nunavik to showcase dog teams and how traditionally they helped Inuit moved around our homeland. It helps Inuit learn how our elders were able to persevere and succeed without modern conveniences, like snowmobiles. It also lets us celebrate not only our traditions, but those who are working hard to keep them alive.”
Last year, Willie Cain and Itsaja Arnatuk from Tasiujaq topped the podium in Aupaluk after winning the 2023 Ivakkak Dog sled race, which had six teams competing after the event was cancelled in 2022 due to COVID concerns.
Interested mushers can register on the Ivakkak website at http://www.ivakkak.com. Live tracking for the race and further information will also be made available on the event website.
Ivakkak 2024 Set for February
Comments (0)