FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Great Bear Chase Update

It is looking like ideal conditions for the UP Health System Great Bear Chase this Saturday, March 8. A March 5 blizzard is expected to add up to 20 inches of snow to trails that already have a base of more than two feet. The storm will pass on Thursday morning and the forecast is for partly sunny skies and 16 degrees at race start on Saturday.

Online registration remains open through 11:59 pm (EST) Thursday, March 6, and in- person registration is available during bib pick-up times on Friday, March 7. See the race guide at www.greatbearchase.com for times and details.

Both of the skiathlons (20km and 50km) have reached capacity, but there is still room in the classic and freestyle races of 10km, 25km, and 50km. Racers are treated to a pasty feast at Calumet High School after the race.

The UP Health System Great Bear Chase is a major fundraiser for the Swedetown trails. Proceeds go directly into improving and maintaining the trail system, which includes 29km of ski trails, 15km of snow bike trails, 10km of snowshoe trails, and 25 miles of purpose-built singletrack mountain bike trails.