Minnesota dog sled competition canceled due to lack of snow, organizers say

The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, a series of races involving dog sleds and mushers set to begin on Jan. 26, has been canceled due to lack of snow.

Man's best friend will have to wait another year to participate in one of the most beloved winter competitions in the Midwest.

The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, a series of races involving dog sleds and mushers scheduled to begin on Jan. 26, has been canceled due to lack of snow, organizers announced. The race takes place over a 300-mile course and is known for incorporating the extremes of northern Minnesota weather, as well as for the trail's rugged terrain.

The event's board of directors made the decision to cancel the marathon after "months of waiting for the weather to cooperate," citing safety concerns for the dogs, mushers and volunteers due to the minimal snow cover, according to a press release posted to the organization's official website Tuesday night.

Postponing the marathon to later in the winter season was not an option because the weather has been so unpredictable, organizers said.