FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Great Bear Chase Still On

There is snow in Calumet, Michigan, and the 43rd annual UP Health System Great Bear Chase (www.greatbearchase.com) will take place on March 9. The race includes distances of 10k, 25k, and 50k with separate starts and categories for freestyle and classic skiers. The Great Bear Chase also offers a 20k and 50k skiathlon, with racers skiing half the distance classic and the other half freestyle.

All races have spots open except the 20k skiathlon, which is sold out. Registration is open at www.greatbearchase.com.

While the Keweenaw has suffered the same low-snow blues as the rest of the Midwest, a 50-inch snowfall in mid-January provided enough base for skiing to continue, even through the warm temperatures in early February. Race organizers estimate a base of 3”-6” on the trail system at this point.

“The long-range forecast looks good, in terms of temperatures saying below freezing,” said Angela Luskin, race director. “While we’d like to see a nice snowstorm in the forecast, that doesn’t appear likely. However, given current conditions and the forecast, we plan to provide a quality, safe race on March 9.”

If you have questions not answered on the website, you can email [email protected].