"Several surprises and highlights" comprised the 2017 Deh Gah Christmas Sled Dog Races in Fort Providence, according to organizer Susan Fleck with Deh Gah Dog Mushers Club.
Twenty-three mushers competed over two days Dec. 16 and 17, and though most hailed from the Deh Cho, South Slave, and Yellowknife, some came from much farther away.
"Mushers from Germany (Michel Gudat) and Michigan (Julie Ahnen) made it an international race," Fleck told News/North by email. "Both are volunteers with different kennels."
Also, teenager Taylor Beck beat her multi-champion grandpa Richard Beck and her multi-champion dad John Beck in the 12-dog class race.
"They were both surprised!" said Fleck.
Anthony Beck from Hay River won the 12 Dog Class 12-mile race with a time of 42:49.80. TJ Fordy, also from Hay River, won the 6 Dog Class six mile race with a time of 18:33.27. Sean Dale with Poison Signs won the three dog, three mile sponsor race with a time of 10:13.01.
"The sponsor race is a real highlight," said Fleck.
The race purse for the 12-dog and 6-dog races was $5,000.