Ivakkak race changes route due to safety concerns over poor conditions
Mild winter has made the Umiujaq-to-Chisasibi route unsafe to travel
The 2024 Ivakkak race route will run from Umiujaq to Puvirnituq because a mild winter has made the regular race route unsafe. (Photo courtesy of Ivakkak)
The Ivakkak dogsled race has a last-minute change to its route due to safety concerns.
This year’s route was previously set from Umiujaq south to Chisasibi but mild winter conditions have rendered that route unsafe for travel, organizers announced Tuesday in a news release.
The route will now head north from Umiujaq to Puvirnituq with a stop in Inukjuak.
It follows the Hudson Coast shoreline from Umiujaq to Inukjuak, which is approximately 240 kilometres. After that, racers will head another 170 kilometres to Puvirnituq.
The former route was 385 kilometres in length, with one stop in Kuujjuaraapik.
The race, which follows a different route every year, has a start date set for Feb. 26.
“We understand the importance of prioritizing the safety of our participants and support staff,” said Andy Moorhouse, Makivvik Corp.’s vice-president of economic development, in the release.
“After thorough assessment and consultation with mushers and our crew, we have made the decision to adjust the route.
“We recognize the importance of community involvement in making Ivakkak a success.”
This is the 22nd year for the Ivakkak race. Organizers voted this year for mushers to compete solo, instead of with partners.
Six teams competed in last year’s race. The winners were Willie Cain and Itsaja Arnatuk, from Tasiujaq.
Wasting money. Mostly rich ppl who have dogs and workers are rich too. They all have skidoo. I cant buy shoos.
I thought , only our beloved leaders are rich.
There are: Own a company rich, own a house rich, own a truck rich, own a skidoo or honda rich. Our leaders have all of these. Legault dont even make $200K/yr.
Most of these Ivakkak men are “self employed”. Some have even been caught selling stuff wile running the race. FACT.
Where do you work?
or if your to old to work (where do your kids and grand kids work… you probably have a few of them at working age).
or if your to young to work (well since your reading Nunatsiaq you probably are not under 16 or 14… so get a job any job. even at the store stocking shelves is ok. and if your still in school make it a part time job after school.