It is the ninth edition of the long-distance race Tobacco Trail to be held this year. The first to finish is expected to return to the race center early Tuesday morning.
In addition to the distance of 30 km along the Tobacco Trail, there is also a middle distance, which is not included in the Swedish Championship, of 16 km.
The weather until Tuesday looks to be sunny. Competition director Birgitta Fernström believes that while it can be nice for officials and spectators, it can also mean problems for those who compete.
"A lot of people are worried that it's too hot. It is 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 the time 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 has gone 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 their master or math is focused," says Birgitta Fernström.
Favourite tipped participants
Several of this year's contestants are from Norrbotten – and several are also favourites. In the twelve-span class you will find, among others, 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.
In the eight-team class, Gaynor Leeper from Kurravaara, who also previously won, competes. She is also chairman of the organizing club – Torne River sled dog club.