Snow is on the ground. Temperatures in Bethel have held below freezing for nearly two weeks, and sled dog racing season has arrived on the Lower Kuskokwim River. Hopefully.
The Kuskokwim 300 Race Committee has announced its first local race of the season, though the committee is making it clear that its plans are tentative. Weather and trail conditions will determine what happens comes race day.
The Season Opener Race, for now, is scheduled for Saturday, December 8, at 11 a.m. There is an eight-dog limit. The purse totals $20,000 and will be paid out to the first 15 finishers. If less than 15 mushers compete, the total purse will be divided among all the finishers.
To compete in K300-sponsored races, mushers must purchase a mile. Each costs $100 and serves as the entrance fee to participate in all K300-sponsored races this season.
More race details, including the starting location and race course, will be announced closer to race day.
Last year, the K300 Season Opener was pushed back twice due to warm weather and poor trail conditions. Initially scheduled for December 16, 2017, it did not occur until December 30, nearly the end of the year.
