MARQUETTE -- The U.P. 200 and the Midnight Run will both be starting from downtown Marquette this year.

The Midnight Run has traditionally started in Gwinn, but this year it will begin 30 minutes after the last U.P. 200 team has left the chute, right in downtown Marquette.

The move is due to the popularity of the annual event and to ensure the safety of the mushers.

In previous years there had been safety concerns along the trails where the teams had to cross major roads.  This year's mild winter has also played a role in preparing for the races.

"Anytime you have a winter like we've had so far, you're going to find that training issues present themselves," said Pat Torreano, President of Sled Dog Association.  "Mushers haven't had enough time on the trails, but we think the town and the mushers and everyone will have a great time seeing both sets of races go out of Marquette."

The purse for the U.P. 200 has also been raised this year, with first place winning $7,200.  The 240-mile U.P. 200 is scheduled to start February 17 at 7:10 p.m. and will finish in Lower Harbor Park.

Torreano also said the JackPine 30 sled dog race is still scheduled to start in Gwinn, however, no teams have signed up as of yet.