Each winter, many locals and visitors alike look forward to the chill in the air and snow on the ground because of the activities that coincide with this type of weather. But there is a lady associated with the stars, full moon, the sea and earth that can ruin vacations and events. Yep, It’s Mother Nature. I don’t know what she has against the Northwoods, but she hasn’t been treating us very well these last two years.

I can’t ever remember having that warm of winter and hardly any snow last year. Our Snowmobile trails never opened, no one put skis on, and ice fishing was sketchy. Last year and the start of this winter, the weather truly put a hurt on businesses in the Northwoods. Then there are people that do not partake in winter activities I just mentioned but look forward to being a spectator at different winter events.

For the last 44 years one of those events in Land O Lakes has been the 3 BEAR SLED DOG RACES and again mother nature didn’t cooperate. Due to the lack of snow and/or not enough snow in the future forecast the Northwoods tradition that so many look forward to has been cancelled. If you have never been to the sled dog races in Land O Lakes, you are missing out on an opportunity the whole family would enjoy. There are 2, 4, 6 and 8 sled dog teams along with SKIJORING (more on that later) class.

The 3 Bear Sled Dog race is not only well known but attracts people from all over the Mid-West including mushers from Canada. It all starts when you exit your vehicle and hear a few dogs barking with excitement. Then you can’t help but see and feel the enthusiasm of the participants (human and animals) as you walk through what is called THE MUSHERS VILLAGE.

When it’s time for the races, sleds are put in position and the harnesses are attached to the dogs. This is when they are brought to the starting line. It is amazing how excited these dogs you passed in mushers village are when they know it’s time to perform. At this point a huge number of spectators gather alongside the starting line and wait for the release of the first team and the races to begin.

The sleds and dogs are quietly walked towards the starting line and as they get closer the person guiding them up have their hands full trying to control these animals that have trained for this moment. As the countdown starts, you can’t help but feel the intensity of these dogs jumping and barking. Once the starter pulls the brake tether the barking stops and paws are digging into the track. While some folks will continue to watch teams leave, others will line up along the finish line to see these amazing sled dogs finish the timed race.

Whatever Mother Nature has against the Northwoods hopefully changes so we can attend the 45th year of THE 3 BEAR SLED DOG RACES next year.