New sled dog race planned

A new sled dog race is planned near Olney for Feb. 28 to March 1.

The Flathead Classic takes the place of Flathead Sled Dog Days. Teams are already entering as the trails have plenty of snow coverage.

The races start at 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday at mile marker 145.5 just off Highway 93 across from the Olney turn-off. The public is invited to cheer the mushers as they leave the starting chute and watch them return to the finish line.

The race will have a 12-dog class which will be 25 miles, a 6-dog class which will be 15 miles, a 4-dog class running 4 miles with separate junior and adult races, and also a 2.8 mile one-dog ski jore race or a 5.6 mile two-dog ski jore.

Dr. Jack Konitz from Big Arm will be the race veterinarian.

Sponsorships are still available and more volunteers are always needed.

Contact Brett Svetlik at 239-0858 or go online to flatheadclassic.org.