The great dog sled race in Avanerriaq

Chairman of Qaanaaq's dog sledding association, Qimuggeq, Ujuut Olsen looks forward to the preparations when the days become brighter again, and the work of finding volunteers and organizing the route can begin.

– We are looking forward to it and hope that it will be good as usual, says Ujuut Olsen to AG.

On the association's Facebook page, Qimuggeq states that the traditional 100-kilometer dog sled race in Avanersuaq this year will be held over two days, on March 12 and 13, 2026.

According to the chairman, it is still difficult to predict the exact number of participating sled dogs, but he expects that around 20 will start.

– As you know, the sea ice came late this year, and not many people have driven long distances with dogsleds yet. The sea ice at Savissivik has only just arrived, so we don't yet know if participants from there can come. On the other hand, there are always usually participants from Siorapaluk and Qeqertat, explains Ujuut Olsen.

The need for volunteers is less this year than in previous years, as the program has been reduced.

– There are many who would like to help voluntarily, but we need fewer hands this year because the event is smaller than last year, he says.

Last year, around 110 volunteers participated in “Avanerriarmi Hukatserruunneq”. Of these, around 70 people worked at the start and finish area and at the accommodation in Qeqertat, where they served as cooks, guards, route markers and were responsible for preparations for the closing party, according to Ujuut Olsen.