Volunteers help with final preparations hours before the big race.
CALUMET -- They closed down 5th Street early Friday morning and began to bring in the snow.
Even with the rain and cooler weather, dozens of volunteers were working in downtown Calumet all day long. They smoothed out the course and set up fencing, making sure everything was ready for the first-ever Copper Dog 150.
"This wouldn't have happened without our volunteer base, and they're even more important tonight with the road crossings to keep both the dogs and traffic safe," said Race Director Brian Tiura.
A few streets away at the River Valley Bank, more helpers were organizing the mushers and their teams so that the veterinarian could check out all of the dogs.
"Most dogs come to races in pretty good health,” said Dr. Jeff Ladd. “As with any athletic event, we've noticed some minor injuries and we're assisting the mushers with that, but there haven't been any real surprises or concerns here."
The sun came out as work continued into the afternoon, but Tiura said the trails were in good shape and the mild temperatures should bring out more fans.
"Hopefully the streets will be lined with people,” Tiura said. “The weather's nice, a little damp, but for a sled dog event it's better than 10 below. It's very spectator friendly."
The first sled dog teams are scheduled to take off at 7 p.m.
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