February 1, 2009 Beargrease Sled Dog Race
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26th Annual Beargrease Race
Steve Van Kekerix and I were able to photograph the finish of the 26th annual Beargrease Sled Dog Race. Out of the 21 teams that started only six finished. It was a hard fought 371 miles with temperatures well below zero. Watching the lead teams as they approached the finish line, it was easy to see what it takes to win. You need a close relationship with your dogs and to be willing to work as hard as they do. Here John Stetson from Duluth is pushing his sled up one of the hundreds of hills that they had to climb during the race. I just love the way the dog is looking back at him like it is saying “Thanks”.
26th Annual Beargrease Race 2
We were a couple hundred yards from the finish line when we saw John stop his team and take time to talk to each dog as he brushed the frost from around their mouths
26th Annual Beargrease Race 3
His close relationship with and concern for his dogs was very evident. Then it was on to the finish line and the roar of the crowd and the flash of the cameras. John came in second.