SPRINT / MID-DISTANCE
FAQ's & REGISTRATION
We have a seventy team limit for the Sprint & Mid-Distance events. The first 5 spots are reserved for each event. Afterwards, “First Come 1st Served” until the team limit is reached.- Additional team registrations (beyond 70) will be placed on a reserve listing. Registration fee’s will be refunded to these applicants if they are not moved up to the main draw.
- All applications need to be submitted by February 1st. Except for the Weight Pulling event, where same day registrations are allowed.
- No Sprint or Mid-Distance event changes or driver substitutions will be accepted two days before the start of the race.
BAG CHECKERS: Helmets required for Jr. mushers under 18 years of age. All dogs must be up to date with vaccinations. A sled bag shall be capable of carrying a dog. Leaders neck lines are fastened to each other. A tool capable of easily cutting your gang line must be carried during the race. The sled must have a snub line that will be connected to a release at the start line, brush bow, a proper functioning brake bolted to the sled and a snow hook.
- RACE PURSE: See the NPSDR website for more details.
- PRIZE WINNINGS: In accordance with IRS requirements, mushers who receive prize winnings of $600 or more during the season may be required to complete a Form W-9 so that we can issue a Form 1099-MISC at the end of the year. This applies to total winnings, not just a single payout. We’ll let you know if this applies to you and will provide the necessary forms when needed.
Musher Meeting is “Mandatory” and will take place at the clubhouse (the evening before the race) with the meeting starting at 6pm.Participation in the banquet is optional. However, the banquet fee is included in the race registration form. If you select the “Banquet Option” during registration, your dinner will be automatically covered. The banquet will be held at 5:30 PM on the evening prior to race day.
We’re pleased to offer complimentary meals for Mini-Mushers aged 5 and under.
Advance planning ensures a smooth experience for everyone—especially our kitchen team—and helps prevent food waste. Please note: All registrations must be submitted by February 1, 2026.
LATE REGISTRATIONS for SPRINT & MID-DISTANCE:
Registrations after the Mandatory Driver’s Meeting will not be allowed unless the driver had attended the Mandatory meeting.Registration changes after February 1st are discouraged but can be allowed with Race Marshal approval. $25 fee for changing any class/drivers entry is required. In addition, If a registered driver makes a request for a driver change, a new informational form will also need to be submitted. $50 late fee per class for any registrations received after February 1st.
- EVENT CHANGES:
Participants who choose to upgrade to a higher-tier event will be required to pay the difference in registration fees. However, if a participant opts to switch to a lower-tier event, the difference in fees will not be reimbursed. This policy is in place to account for the administrative processes involved in managing registration adjustments. - RACE CANCELLATION POLICY:
Postponement date if needed, will be preset to one week from current date. Subject to one day from race date if conditions warrant. Drivers are allowed a full refund option.
May be utilized in the 4 and 6 dog events. Teams may start in 1 or 2-minute intervals. Current weather conditions may result in specific start time changes (for all events) deemed necessary by the Race Marshal.
- Registration entry fees are discounted 50% for all junior mushers. Helmets and parent/guardian consent are “required” for junior mushers under 18 years of age. See RACE RULES and RACE WAIVER for more specific details. Teams may encounter head-on passing.
Junior mushers registered for any of the four NPSDR events will have their events scheduled concurrently with adult mushers.
The Northern Pines Sled Dog Race begins and ends at the beautiful Northern Pines Golf Course and Event Center, nestled in the Bayfield County and Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. From an exhilarating downhill launch at the clubhouse, teams race across the golf course before heading into the Bayfield County Trail system and the Tri-County Corridor. Course distances have been carefully mapped using Google Earth to ensure accuracy.
This one-of-a-kind race is a thrill for all ages—whether you’re a longtime fan of sled dog racing or experiencing it for the first time. Families are encouraged to bundle up, come out, and share in the excitement of this very special event. For everyone’s safety (including the dogs on the trail), we kindly ask that spectators leave their own pets at home.
Location (here)
4 Dog ~ $80*
6 Dog ~ $90*
10 Dog ~ $110*
Mid-Distance ~ $100*
Registration refunds will be honored until January 1st (minus any bank service fees). No refunds past this date. If you have submitted an entry form and were placed on the reserve list, but not moved into the main draw, we will refund your entry (minus any bank service fees).
- Registration entry fees are discounted 50% for all junior mushers.
- 4.4 mile class: the Limited Four-Dog Class Team shall consist of not more than four (4) dogs, and not less than three (3) dogs.
- 8.2 mile class: the Limited Six-Dog Team shall consist of not more than six (6) dogs, and not less than four (4) dogs.
- 17 mile class: the Limited Ten-Dog Team shall consist of not more than ten (10) dogs, and not less than seven (7) dogs.
- 32 mile class: A Limited 8 Dog Mid-distance Class Team shall consist of not more than eight (8) dogs, not less than six (6) dogs.
There will be no chain for snow hooks. Snub lines shall extend at least 1 foot but no longer than 2 feet beyond the handle bar. Loop should be approximately 3-4” in diameter. No metal rings. Snub line should be adjustable to run off either the right or left side of the sled (because of possible duel starts, you may be in either chute). The snub line must be able to be connected to a release at the start line.
All drivers shall be responsible for the conduct of their dogs, their designated handler, and themselves whenever in the race area or on the trail. Teams or individual team members, can be disqualified for any disrespect or verbal/physical abuse toward any race official or volunteer. The Race Marshall will determine if entry in future NPSDR events will be permitted.
Our staff will be conducting vaccination checks prior to the start of the Sprint/Mid-Distance/Weight Pull events. Mushers/Handlers must provide dog vaccination records when requested. If in violation of NPSDR vaccination standards, Musher/Handlers will be disqualified by the Race Officials. By entering the NPSDR, you acknowledge that you have all the required dog vaccinations for the dogs you entered. See Race rules (here).
