In just three years the White Oak Classic has grown dramatically, forming part of an alliance with the Beargrease and Mid-MN to offer an Arrowhead Triple Challenge. As of the end of December, 66 teams had registered to participate in four separate races; 10 dog pro, 6-dog pro, recreational and trophy classes. Registrations close on Jan. 6, and Race Marshall Dan Bergerson expects this number to grow. To date registrations have come from the northern Minnesota region and as far away as Nova Scotia, Alaska, Nebraska and Illinois.

Change of course

This year, however, the weather has been unusually fickle for the sport. Instead of snow, there has been rain. Snow cover is minimal in the Deer River area where the race was scheduled to begin.

Although Bergerson expects the event to take place, he anticipates that the course will be moved north to better and safer trails. The final decision will be made in a race meeting on Jan. 4, and the decision posted on the event’s web site, www.whiteoakclassic.org.

The probable routes will include an 86 mile race for the 10 dog pro class, leaving Northome in 2 minute staggered starts beginning at 1 p.m. on Sat., Jan. 13 and traveling to Effie. Arrivals there can be expected between 5 and 8 p.m. Following a 4 hour mandatory layover, the teams will return to Northome, expected back between 12:30 a.m. and 3 a.m.

The 6 dog pro class will start following the 10 dog pro teams and travel one way to Effie on a 43 mile course.

The 4-6 dog trophy class will begin about 3 p.m. in Northome and travel a circuit north on the Blue Ox trail to mile marker 15 and return after a one hour layover. Return to Northome is expected between 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. The 4-6 dog recreational class will travel one way 15 miles north on the Blue Ox Trail.

Events

Other events planned for the weekend will still continue. On Friday night, Jan. 12, the public is invited to a “Meet the Musher” spaghetti feed at the White Oak Society Great Hall at the Fur Post just north of Deer River on Highway 6 from 5-9 p.m. Cost is $7.95 for adults, $4.95 for ages 3-12 and $1.95 for under 3.

The post-race awards ceremony will be at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 14 at the Marcell family Center. A catered lunch will be served. Cost is $10; $6 for ages 3-11.

In addition, Northome is planning events during the weekend, and both Jiggs Cafe and the Effie Cafe plan to remain open during the race hours. A chili feed will be offered at Northome at the Senior Center on Saturday evening.

Special honors

Special recognition will be given to two men who have supported development of the White Oak Classic. During the opening ceremonies, Bib #1 will be presented to the family of Ed Valek, an active supporter of the event. This honor is made annually to the memory of a person in the local mushing community.

During the awards ceremony, a special tribute will be made to the memory of Bob Lundeen, former mayor of Deer River who was also an enthusiastic supporter.