Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race facts for kids

The Can-Am Crown is an exciting international sled dog race. It happens every year in Fort Kent, Maine. The race usually starts on the first Saturday in March. This is the same day the famous Iditarod Trail race begins. The Can-Am Crown organization started on October 16, 1992. It was created to set up a long-distance sled dog race.

History of the Can-Am Crown Race

The very first Can-Am Crown race was 250 miles long. It began on February 16, 1993. Nine teams competed in this first race. These teams came from Maine, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick.

Adding More Races

In 1994, the race became more popular. Sixteen teams raced in the 250-mile event. A new 60-mile race was also added that year. Eleven teams joined the new shorter race. By 1997, an even shorter 30-mile race was added. This meant there were now three different races.

Setting the Start Date and Team Limits

Also in 1997, organizers decided on a fixed start date. All three races would officially begin on the first Saturday in March. The races became very popular. Because of this, the directors set a limit of 30 teams for each race. This limit was reached in 2005.

Race Cancellations

Sometimes, races have to be cancelled. The 2021 race was cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2024 race was also cancelled. This was due to warm weather and not enough snow.

How the Can-Am Crown Race Works

The Can-Am Crown race starts on Main Street in Fort Kent. The trail goes under the international bridge to Canada. Then, it stretches into the wild western parts of the Allagash wilderness. Finally, the race finishes back in Fort Kent.

Race Distances

There are three different races in the Can-Am Crown:

• A 30-mile race
• A 60-mile race
• A 250-mile race

The 250-mile race is special. It is a qualifying race for the famous Iditarod. Racers come from all over the United States and Canada to compete.

Checkpoints and Race Length

The 250-mile race course has five checkpoints. All teams must sign in and out at each checkpoint. The 30-mile and 60-mile races usually finish on the same day they start. The 250-mile race takes longer. It can last from two to four days. Dog sled drivers, called mushers, must reach the Allagash checkpoint by a certain time. This is important to complete the race.

Prizes for Winners

Winning the Can-Am Crown comes with prize money. The winner of the 250-mile race receives $29,000. The winner of the 60-mile race gets $7,000. The winner of the 30-mile race receives $4,000. For example, in 2012, a musher from Minnesota named Ryan Anderson won the 250-mile race. He finished the trail in 31 hours, 22 minutes, and 16 seconds.