It is the ninth edition of the Tobacco Trail long-distance competition that is being organized this year. The first finisher is expected to return to the competition center early Tuesday morning.
In addition to the distance of 30 miles along the Tobaksleden, an average distance of 16 miles is also run, which is not part of the SM.
The weather until Tuesday looks like it will be sunny. Competition leader Birgitta Fernström believes that while it can be nice for officials and spectators, it can also mean problems for those who compete.
– Many are worried that it is too hot. It’s quite hot in the sun and many have well-furred dogs and then it gets tough. What I hear is that people are thinking about whether they can drive most of it at night, she says.
Good atmosphere on site
But despite the concern about the heat, there was a good atmosphere during the preparations.
The inspection of the dogs went well and both people and dogs were eager to start the journey.
– The dogs feel that there is a competition going on. They notice that master or mistress is focused, says Birgitta Fernström.
Favorite participants
Several of this year’s contestants are from Norrbotten – and several are also favourites. In the twelve-seater class, Maarten van Cauwenberghe from Kangos, who came in second place last year, and Taisto Torneus from Kiruna, one of the initiators who also won before, can be found among others.
Gaynor Leeper from Kurravaara competes in the eight-team class, which she also previously won. She is also chairman of the organizer’s club – Torneälven’s sled dog club.
