FORT KENT, Maine – The Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races, a premier event in the world of winter sports, is poised to return in 2024 with unprecedented excitement and anticipation. As the event draws near, the president of the race directors, Dennis Cyr, said he was thrilled to announce that the groundbreaking champions of the 2023 races – Katherine Langlais, Florence Shaw and Diane Marquis – are set to return, promising an event brimming with talent, endurance and tight competition.
The 2024 Can-Am Crown, scheduled for March 2, will draw significant attention from the sled dog racing community and winter sports enthusiasts worldwide. The return of the 2023 champions, each a trailblazer in their own right, adds a unique narrative to this year’s race. Their participation underlines the event’s reputation as a platform for extraordinary talent and sportsmanship.
The event invites amazing stories to unfold for enthusiasts and journalists across the planet. There will be tales of the perseverance and skill of these athletes, the incredible bond between the mushers and their sled dogs, and the sheer beauty of the winter landscape in Maine. The event also serves as a celebration of women’s achievements in sports, a theme that resonates in the wake of the historic 2023 races where all three champions were women.
A robust network of sponsors, including major partners such as Irving Woodlands, the family of Willard Jalbert, Jr., Pepsi and Native Dog Food, support the 2024 Can-Am Crown. Director Vice President Sarah Brooks said, “The contributions of our sponsors not only make the races possible but also highlight the community’s dedication to preserving and promoting this unique sport. We extend our heartfelt thanks to these organizations for their unwavering support and commitment to excellence.”
Event organizers say this year’s event is set to be more than just a race; it’s a celebration of resilience, teamwork, and the human spirit. Spectators can expect a series of engaging activities, including meet-and-greets with the mushers, educational workshops, and a closer look at the world of sled dog racing. The races themselves promise breathtaking scenery, heart-pounding action, and an atmosphere filled with the spirit of adventure.
With the veterinary and organizational efforts of Dr. Nick Pesut, the veterinary coordinator for the race, the safety of our competitors and their teams remains a top priority. Can-Am volunteers are committed to organizing a world class event that ensures the well-being of all involved and also respects and preserves the natural beauty of the northern Maine environment.
The Can-Am Crown also serves as a platform for local mushers to showcase their talents alongside internationally renowned competitors. This blend of local and global talent underscores the event’s role in fostering sportsmanship and camaraderie in the sled dog racing community.
Fort Kent is opening its doors to spectators, journalists, sports enthusiasts and families to join the community of Fort Kent to experience the exhilaration of the Can-Am Crown Sled Dog Races. Whether folks are cheering from the sidelines or watching the event through worldwide media coverage, the 2024 races promise an unforgettable experience filled with stories of determination, friendship, and the timeless bond between humans and dogs.
For more information, please visit the Can-Am Crown website at
https://can-am-crown.net/home.php or contact Andrew Birden, Can-Am media advisor, at andrewbirden22@gmail.com.
Join us in celebrating the spirit of winter sports and the incredible athletes who make the Can-Am Crown a must-see event on the sporting calendar. See you at the starting line!
