Su Dog 300 announces cancelation

In a quick turn of events the Su Dog went from "it's a go" to "it's a no" Friday as they took to their social media platforms to announce they were cancelling the inagural race. Just last night the race organization was confident they could put on a race with the only caveat being that mushers would get wet. 

Though the response on the original posting of the race would go on inspite of forecasted storms was positive, it seems that the response behind the scenes was not. In comments on Friday's announcements race organizers stressed that this was NOT due to trail conditions and was due to negative messages they recieved from some of the mushers concerned with the race's decision.

"Just to be clear," race organizer Karin Hendrickson commented on the post, "nowhere did we say we that the decision was made due safety concerns. The trails are fine, the creek crossings are solid, and we run dogs all the time in rain."

Many fans and mushers were quick to comment words of encouragement while also sharing their disappointment that it would not happen this year. Organizers further commented, "we fully support mushers being concerned for their dogs! It's the less-than-kind words we've received that hit harder." Many mushers defended the race saying that they appreciated their hard work and dedication to make a race happen in less than ideal conditions.

"We want to support the ENTIRE community," wrote the Su Dog, "not just those that agree with us. We are committed to being a community event, for everyone!"

The race promises to try again next year. This will be the second weekend in Alaska without a premier mid-distance race.

Thoughts on today's news? Comment below.

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