Watch CBS News

Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon Kicks Off In Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) — Mushers and teams in the longest sled dog race in the contiguous United States have hit the trail.

The 300-mile John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon kicked off Sunday morning from Billy's Bar in Duluth. The teams are headed to Grand Portage in far northeastern Minnesota.

There are three other races for shorter distances, including the Junior Beargrease 120 for young mushers.

This year's race marked the return of spectators along the trail. They were not allowed to cheer them on last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The 38th running should wrap up by Tuesday afternoon, depending on snow conditions. Rules require teams to rest for at least 24 hours along the way.

The Beargrease is a qualifier for the Iditarod, the premier race for mushers, in Alaska in March.

(© Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.