JACKSON, Wyo. — On Jan. 31, Jackson will host the start of the 30th annual Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race, a world-renowned event where elite mushers and their teams of sled dogs will embark on a multi-day journey through the Western Wyoming wilderness.
The schedule of events is as follows:
- Jan. 31: Opening Ceremonies and start in Jackson, Wyoming
- Feb. 1 through 6: Daily stages in host towns across western Wyoming
- Feb. 7: Final stage and closing celebrations in Dubois, Wyoming
According to a press release, this event was founded in 1996 by Wyoming public health nurse Jayne Ottman and champion musher Frank Teasley. The Pedigree Stage Stop Race was conceived as a way to promote childhood immunizations within the state, but today it has grown into a premier winter sporting event with a commitment to community engagement and outdoor adventure.
Often called “The Tour de France of Sled Dog Racing,” the Pedigree Stage Stop Race features a unique stage format where teams race a different leg of the course each day that includes Jackson, Pinedale, Kemmerer, Big Piney/Marbleton, Lander and Dubois communities.
“The format allows spectators to experience the excitement of the race up close and fosters deep connections between the competitors and the local communities,” the press release states.
The Pedigree Stage Stop Race is free to attend and offers spectators the chance to meet the mushers and their teams.
“The Pedigree Stage Stop Race is not just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of resilience, teamwork and the incredible bond between mushers and their dogs,” said Race Director Dan Carter. “We’re honored to continue this tradition and invite everyone to join us for this special milestone.”
The race also supports local animal shelters by donating pet food and promoting adoption programs in collaboration with the Pedigree Foundation.
