Dogs running in the Beargrease.  Photo:  Boreal Community Media file

From KBJR-TV 6 - October 11, 2019

The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is joining forces with other sled dog races around the world in a new initiative aiming to bring new interest to the sport.

The Qrill Pet Arctic World Series, also known as QPAWS, is a new initiative that hopes to bring mushing and the races to an international audience.

Organizers say they plan to reach new viewers through digital platforms, as well as international televised broadcasts.

Officials say they plan on focusing on the relationships between human and canine athletes, the dog care provided by the top mushers, as well as highlighting the iconic races in its inaugural year.

Beargrease, which is the shortest of the four races featured this year, will be shown with the Iditarod in Alaska, as well as races in Norway and Russia.

The Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon was established in 1980 in honor of John Beargrease, the son of an Anishinabe Chief, who helped develop Minnesota’s North Shore.

Click here to learn more about the Beargrease Marathon, and here to learn more about QPAWS.

To read the original article and watch a video report, follow this link to the KJBR-TV website.  https://kbjr6.com/news/top-stories/2019/10/10/new-initiative-hopes-to-bring-sled-dog-racing-to-new-a...