Sled dogs return to Rangeley

17 years ago

    RANGELEY – Seven years ago cheers and barking marked the start of the last sled dog race in Rangeley.
    Previously, Rangeley had hosted an annual sled dog race for over 35 years. From the 1960s to the 1990s, sled dog racing was a premier winter event. For years the teams ran down Rangeley Lake between Oquossoc and Rangeley or deep in the woods off Route 16.     Local mushers and those from great distances met to speed their teams through the snow.
    A committee has been formed diligently working on all aspects of the race, which is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 23. It will be a single 30 to 40 mile mid-distance race for eight- to10-dog teams. Starting in Oquossoc, it will run out of town through the Cupsuptic Campground and into the wilds across Route 16 before retracing its path back to Oquossoc. The race is expected to take six to seven hours.
    The race is expected to be sanctioned by the International Sled Dog Racing Association (ISDRA).
    For further race information or to enter a sled dog team call Kitty Fellows at 864-9940.