MARQUETTE -- The UP 200 and Midnight Run could expect an influx of mushers after a well known Minnesota sled dog race issued a cancellation on Monday.
The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, which takes place along the northern shore of Lake Superior, has cancelled due to lack of snow, according to The Associated Press.
Organizers of the UP 200 and Midnight Run say that they already received several registrations from mushers not normally in the races.
Although the Beargrease cancelled due to lack of snowfall, the UP 200 and Midnight Run organizers are hopeful that the snow keeps coming in the Upper Peninsula.
"We're getting a good trail, but we need more snow," said organizer Pat Torreano. "To bring a large number of mushers over the trail, you need great snow conditions."
According to Torreano, the trail crews have been out working to prepare for the race.
Organizers say they are not anticipating a cancellation of the UP 200 or Midnight Run, but there are measures in place in case there is an issue, including a cancellation announcement at least one week before the race.
The UP 200 and Midnight Run have a capped registration of 40 teams, and both races did not reach that number last year. The cancellation of the Beargrease could help meet that number.
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