2026 Irving Woodlands Can-Am Crown 250
In Alphabetical Order
Erin Altemus
Grand Marais, MNErin Altemus
| From: | Grand Marais, MN |
| Age: | 47 |
| Occupation: | Nurse |
| Kennel Name: | Sawtooth Racing |
| Website: | sawtoothracing.weebly.com |
| Lead Dogs: | Oreo: 5 year old Male Alaskan Husky Temper: 7 year old Male Alaskan Husky Georgia: 5 year old Female Alaskan Husky Che: 2 year old Male Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Beargrease Marathon (Longest) - Distance: 380 - Place: 2 2022 Can Am - Distance: 250 - Place: 3 2022 Beargrease - Distance: 300 - Place: 5 2023 Abitibi - Distance: 100 - Place: 1 2023 Can Am - Distance: 250 - Place: 4 |
My husband and I have been racing dogs for 14 years. We learned to run dogs at YMCA Camp Menogyn and a few years later we acquired our own team. A mushing friend invited us to a race and soon we were breeding dogs and racing. We now have 30 dogs in our kennel located near Grand Marais. I work as a nurse at the local hospital. Our usual roster of races includes the Beargrease, UP200, Can-Am and Gunflint Mail Run. In 2024 I made an attempt at running the Iditarod in Alaska but unfortunately had to scratch after 500 miles. I'd like to go back and give it another try. This year, however, we will stick to races in the lower 48. We are incredibly grateful to our community of sponsors in Cook County and beyond that have helped us achieve our mushing dreams.
Jeffrey Baril
St Damien, QCJeffrey Baril
| From: | St Damien, QC |
| Age: | 44 |
| Occupation: | Carpenter, fishing outfitters |
| Kennel Name: | Expe o crique |
| Lead Dogs: | Tite grise: Female Alaskan Lila: Female Alaskan Covy: Female Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Canam (Longest) - Distance: 100 - Place: 4 |
Living in northern country with family , doing runs with our dogs and lots of expedition , carpenter , and many other jobs during summer ! Im here this year and all family will be participating in other class .
Nicolas Bélanger
St Sixte , QCNicolas Bélanger
| From: | st sixte , QC |
| Age: | 26 |
| Occupation: | Musher and carpenter |
| Kennel Name: | Gatineau dogsleding |
| Website: | ctgatineausd.com |
| Lead Dogs: | Roméo: 3 year old Male Alaskan Bjorn : 3 year old Male Alaskan Solo: 6 year old Male Alaskan Filou: 6 year old Male Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2023 Chic Choc (Longest) - Distance: 200 - Place: 5 2024 Chic-Choc - Distance: 150 - Place: 5 2023 PG expedition - Distance: 100 - Place: 6 2024 Wildernesse sled dog race - Distance: 60 - Place: 6 |
I started doing dogsledding at 5 years old, I did my first race at 9 years old. In summer, I work in construction and I am a guide during winter. I always been passionate about sled dog racing since my young age. The Can-Am will be a new challenge for me.
Amy Dionne
Madawaska, MEAmy Dionne
| From: | Madawaska, ME |
| Age: | 36 |
| Occupation: | Paramedic |
| Kennel Name: | Trailblazer Sled Dogs |
| Lead Dogs: | Clyde: 3 year old Male Alaskan husky Trigger: 5 year old Male Alaskan husky Louise: 4 year old Female Alaskan husky Eddie: 5 year old Male Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2023 Can am 250 (Longest) - Distance: 250 - Place: 9 2015 Eagle lake 100 3rd place. 2015 - Distance: 100 - Place: 3 2023 Can am 250 - Distance: 250 - Place: 9 |
I've been dog sledding for 15 years. I work as a paramedic full time. Being with my dogs is where I feel most as home. I live in the outskirts of madawaska with my 30+ dogs, husband Ryan and Oscar, Phoebe and Ginger, the managers of our teams.
Jonathan Hayes
Saint David, MEJonathan Hayes
| From: | Saint David, ME |
| Age: | 50 |
| Occupation: | Biology Teacher, Maine Guide |
| Kennel Name: | Poland Spring Seppala Kennels. |
| Website: | www.MushMaine.com |
| Lead Dogs: | Druid: 10 year old Male Seppala Siberian Sleddog Kineo: 3 year old Male Seppala Siberian Sleddog Hatchet: 4 year old Male Seppala Siberian Sleddog Jester: 4 year old Male Seppala Siberian Sleddog |
| Race Experience: | 2023 Willow 300 (Longest) - Distance: 300 - Place: 13 Willow 300 Wilderness Can Am |
Jonathan Hayes is a sixth-generation Tennessean who settled in Maine thirty years ago after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps — and he's called the Northwoods home ever since. Hayes teaches at the K—12 school in Saint Agatha and also serves at the small home missions ARC Church in nearby Frenchville. A registered Maine Guide, author, and adventurer, Hayes has a deep love for long miles and frozen trails. This past winter, he completed a 750-mile expedition across Alaska's low Arctic, traveling with his team of Maine-bred Seppala Siberian sled dogs — direct descendants of Togo and the legendary dogs Leonhard Seppala brought to Maine a century ago. Upon his return, the State of Maine officially adopted the Seppala Siberian Sleddog as the state dog, honoring that legacy and the living lineage behind his team. This season, Hayes is sharing his passion for the North Woods by offering guided wilderness expeditions throughout northern Maine — from dog sledding to canoeing adventures across the state's wild country. The Can-Am 250 has been on Hayes's bucket list for years. Between Alaskan expeditions and races, children racing, Covid, and a lean-snow winter, something has always stood in the way — but not this year. Hayes and his Seppalas are ready to run. Hayes says, "After Maine recognized the Seppala Siberian as the official state dog, I knew I had to bring them to the Can-Am. These dogs carry the legacy of mushing and Maine — and there's no better place to celebrate that than here in Fort Kent."
Katherine Langlais
Glenwood, NBKatherine Langlais
| From: | Glenwood, NB |
| Age: | 42 |
| Occupation: | Dog musher |
| Kennel Name: | Akkada Kennel |
| Website: | akkada.org |
| Lead Dogs: | Loki: 4 year old Alaskan Husky Swiss: 3 year old Alaskan Husky White: 5 year old Alaskan Husky Tango: 5 year old Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2023 John Beargrease (Longest) - Distance: 300 - Place: 7 2022 Candian Challange - Distance: 200 - Place: 2 2023 Can-Am Crown - Distance: 250 - Place: 1 2019 Can-Am Crown - Distance: 250 - Place: 3 2022 Can-Am Crown - Distance: 250 |
Animals have always been apart of my life. I have always worked with and around either dogs or horses and they never cease to inspire me. I have always been drawn to northern landscapes. Some people dream of sandy beaches, I dream of snowy adventures. Dog sledding for me merges everything that is important to me, discipline, honesty, hard work and perseverance. There is nothing I rather do than be out training my dogs, Being with my dogs — it is indescriptable. My partner and I have a kennel of 35 dogs together and we motivate each other to reach our respective goals. We have one daughter, Marianne, who has been raised in our mushing world and we believe raising her in such an environment brings very important values in her life. Raising and training sled dogs takes all of our living time, but there is nothing and no time better spent than with my dogs either in the yard or on the trail. Love the dogs first, the sport second!
Remy Leduc
Glenwood, NBRemy Leduc
| From: | Glenwood, NB |
| Age: | 41 |
| Occupation: | Dog musher |
| Kennel Name: | Akkada Kennel |
| Website: | akkada.org |
| Lead Dogs: | Samba : 7 year old Alaskan Dixit: 5 year old Alaskan Aspen: 9 year old Alaskan Gold: 3 year old Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2019 Yukon Quest (Longest) - Distance: 1000 - Place: 21 2017 Canadian Chanllange - Distance: 300 - Place: 5 2020 Chic-Choc - Distance: 200 - Place: 3 2020 BearGrease - Distance: 300 - Place: 9 2025 UP200 - Distance: 230 - Place: 4 2025 Can-Am Crown - Distance: 250 - Place: 2 |
I'm an helicopter pilot half of the year and musher the other half. I get to have the best of both worlds. I have always sought out adventure and love to travel desolate country. Luckily, one of these passions permits me to do the other. My partner and I have had dogs since we have been together and our aspirations are always growing!
Andre Longchamps
Pont-Rouge, QCAndre Longchamps
| From: | Pont-Rouge, QC |
| Age: | 55 |
| Occupation: | Director of paving company |
| Kennel Name: | Trilongmiles kennel |
| Lead Dogs: | Chichi: 3 year old Alaskan Herbie: 7 year old Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2022 Can am 250 (Longest) - Distance: 250 2021 Up200 - Distance: 240 |
Mushing is a life style for us. All the family is involved. It's so nice to race with my son since couples years. The can-am is my favorite race. I start mushing when i was 12 years old in sprint races. I am the third generation of musher in my family. I love the freedom to be in the trail with my dogs.
Tristan Longchamps
Pont-Rouge, QCTristan Longchamps
| From: | Pont-Rouge, QC |
| Age: | 23 |
| Occupation: | Les Entreprises Lonchamps owner / Paving operator |
| Kennel Name: | Trilongmiles Kennel |
| Lead Dogs: | Smalls: 4 year old alaskan Billie: 8 year old Female alaskan Russell: 6 year old Female alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2023 can-am 250 (Longest) - Distance: 250 up 200 - Distance: 2024 can-am 250 - Distance: 250 |
I born in a mushing lifestyle. All the family is involved in racing. I really enjoy to be with my dogs, i like everything around them. This year will be my third time racing the 250. This race is really challenging every time and i like that !
Martin Massicotte
Saint-Tite, QCMartin Massicotte
| From: | Saint-Tite, QC |
| Age: | 57 |
| Occupation: | Paving and musher |
| Kennel Name: | Chenil des Patriotes |
| Lead Dogs: | Remie: 4 year old Female Alaskan Gotcha: 3 year old Female Alaskan Ivory: 5 year old Female Alaskan Henry: 2 year old Male Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2022 Iditarod (Longest) - Distance: 1000 - Place: 21 2025 Can Am 250 - Distance: 250 - Place: 1 2023 Can Am 250 - Distance: 250 - Place: 3 2019 Can Am 250 - Distance: 250 - Place: 1 2020 Beargrease Marathon - Distance: 300 - Place: 4 2025 UP 200 - Distance: 250 - Place: 1 |
When I was 8, I put a harness on our house dog, a big St-Bernard! Then one day I saw a team of several dogs ant that's when I realized that I wanted to harness more dogs. As a teenager I was doing sprint races, and it was only in 1996 that I actually started doing longer distances races, racing from 60 miles to 400 miles in the same year, the Labrador 400. I climbed the ladder and I started winning the Can Am Crown 250 in 1998, the in 2025 I won it for the 11th time. I did the race circuit in the North East America, but in 2003 I run the Yukon Quest where I placed sixth. I won the Hudson Bay Quest in Manitoba twice and and I placed second at the UP200 in Michigan many times, but last year I won my first UP200. In 2022, I realize my dream of running the Iditarod and finished 21th. My wife MJ Dulong published a book of my life and adventures. What I like the most about dog sledding is to be in the wilderness, discover new territories and specially to listen to my dogs and to see that we are an amazing team between humankind the beast.
gilles harnois
St Alexis Des Monts, QCgilles harnois
| From: | st alexis des monts, QC |
| Age: | 65 |
| Occupation: | musher/ retraite de agent de protection de la faune |
| Kennel Name: | desloupiots |
| Website: | desloupiots.com |
| Lead Dogs: | amarok: 10 year old Male siberian husky farouk: 6 year old Male siberian husky maikan: 7 year old Male siberian husky loukian: 4 year old Male siberian husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 canam 250m (Longest) - Distance: 250 miles 2025 pg expedition abitibi - Distance: 160km 2025 la boreale - Distance: 150km 2025 chicchoc150 - Distance: 150m 2025 canam 250 - Distance: 250m |
agent de la faune retraité et musher a plein temps, je suis pas mal le doyen de la canam 250 a 65 ans, j``ai toujours reussi a completer la course en 8 tentatives .lentement mais surement je compte bien le faire avec mes siberiens . tres heureux d etre a fort kent cette année.
In Alphabetical Order*:
2026 Willard Jalbert Jr. Can-Am 100
In Alphabetical Order
Melodie Beauchemin
Saint-Félix De Dalquier, QCMelodie Beauchemin
| From: | Saint-Félix de Dalquier, QC |
| Age: | 34 |
| Occupation: | Ajointe administrative |
| Kennel Name: | Alaskan Kemel |
| Lead Dogs: | Malibu: 5 year old Female Alaskan Aspen: 4 year old Female Alaskan Pink: 3 year old Female Alaskan Opale: 5 year old Female Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can am Crown (Longest) - Distance: 100miles - Place: 2 2025 Boréal 150 - Distance: 45miles - Place: 1 2024 Boréal 150 - Distance: 45miles - Place: 1 2024 Boréal 150 - Distance: 45miles - Place: 1 2025 Boréal 150 - Distance: 40miles - Place: 3 2025 Boréal 150 - Distance: 45miles - Place: 1 |
Passionnés de plein air et d'aventure, mes chiens et moi adorons explorer de nouveaux sentiers. Les courses de chiens de traîneau ont toujours été une de mes passions. L'adrénaline que chaque départ me procure est inimaginable.
Eric Chagnon
Parent(la Tuque), QCEric Chagnon
| From: | Parent(la Tuque), QC |
| Age: | 60 |
| Occupation: | forestry foreman |
| Lead Dogs: | Orca: 3 year old Female hound jack: 7 year old alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2023 can am (Longest) - Distance: 100 - Place: 7 2023 can am crow - Distance: 100 - Place: 7 2024 pg expédition - Distance: 100 - Place: 16 |
j'aime bien partir seul en forêt avec mes chiens, je pratiques la chasse la pêche et la trappe, i love fort kent ! Many camping trips with my dogs.
Philippe Dugas
Maria, QCPhilippe Dugas
| From: | Maria, QC |
| Age: | 46 |
| Occupation: | Menuisier et guide propriétaire de Kiyak Aventures |
| Kennel Name: | Kiyak Aventures |
| Lead Dogs: | Rupert: 3 year old Male Alaskan Hudson: 3 year old Male Alaskan Kozak: 5 year old Male Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can am 100 (Longest) - Distance: 100 - Place: 7 2023 La Chic-Chocs 40 - Distance: 40 miles - Place: 9 2024 La Chic-Chocs 45 - Distance: 45 miles - Place: 10 2022 La Chic-Chocs 40 - Distance: 40 miles |
Bonjour tout le monde Très heureux de revenir courser ici à Fort Kent. Mon but cette année est d'améliorer mon résultat de l'an passé et de finir avec une belle équipe de chiens heureux. Thanks to all the person that make this wonderful event !!
Luc Fortin
Roxton Falls, QCLuc Fortin
| From: | Roxton Falls, QC |
| Age: | 49 |
| Occupation: | agriculteurs |
| Kennel Name: | Luc Fortin |
| Lead Dogs: | Keisha: 6 year old Female Alaskan toudra: 6 year old Female Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 chicchoc (Longest) - Distance: 150 - Place: 208 2025 pg expedition abitibie - Distance: 100 - Place: 8 2025 can am - Distance: 100 2025 boreal - Distance: 100 - Place: 7 |
j'aime entrainer les chiens voir leurs progrès, sur la trail plus rien existe, ces le moments présents , les chiens rien d'autre! I like training dogs to see their progress, on the trail nothing exists anymore, these present moments, the dogs nothing. the white leader is Keisha who I like for her determination, and the black one is Toudra who is the fastest in the kennel! My kennel is a recreational kennel established on the farm
Maxime Fournier
Saint Vianney, QCMaxime Fournier
| From: | Saint Vianney, QC |
| Age: | 43 |
| Occupation: | Fishing, hunting and dog sledding guide |
| Kennel Name: | Fournier's Outfitter |
| Website: | www.fournierpleinair.com |
| Lead Dogs: | Louna: 4 year old Female Alaskan husky Sonic: 2 year old Male Alaskan husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can Am (Longest) - Distance: 100 miles - Place: 5 2025 Wilderness Sled Dog Race - Distance: 35 miles - Place: 6 2023 ChicChocs - Distance: 45 miles - Place: 14 2025 Matapedia Lake Challenge - Distance: 40 miles - Place: 6 2024 ChicChocs - Distance: 45 miles - Place: 8 2025 Can Am Crown - Distance: 100 miles - Place: 5 |
I've been practicing dog mushing for a long time but I started to race only in 2023. It's gonna be my first attempt on a 100 miles race. I own and train sled dogs for over 23 years. rnI made multiple expedition in the first years. Since 2011, I provide dog sledding tours in the Gaspé's Peninsula.
Alex Gurka
Winn, MEAlex Gurka
| From: | Winn, ME |
| Age: | 34 |
| Occupation: | Pharmaceutical development scientist |
| Kennel Name: | Misfits Sled Dogs |
| Lead Dogs: | Digit: 6 year old Alaskan Husky Purple: 6 year old Alaskan Husky Bubbles: 3 year old Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 CanAm (Longest) - Distance: 100 - Place: 12 2024 Wilderness - Distance: 60 2025 CanAm 100 - Distance: 100 2022 CanAm - Distance: 30 2023 Great North Woods Sled Dog Challenge - Distance: 24-24-18 - Place: 4 2023 Lamoille Valley Sled Dog Race - Distance: 17 |
What started as a mission to find a canine running partner evolved into a life centered by dogs. Finding my first husky Loki as a puppy at a shelter might have started the journey, but my amazing retiree Smarty truly highlighted what joy we could have as Team Misfits. We live for the moments we become part of the forest while we're out sledding. This is our third year participating in the CanAm, and we are absolutely thrilled to be racing in Fort Kent!
Julia Klaucke
Medford, MEJulia Klaucke
| From: | Medford, ME |
| Age: | 38 |
| Kennel Name: | Snow Trek Sled Dogs |
| Lead Dogs: | Riker: 7 year old Male Siberian Husky Data: 6 year old Male Alaskan Husky Crumpet : 6 year old Female Alaskan Husky Gus: 4 year old Male Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can Am (Longest) - Distance: 100 2025 Wilderness - Distance: 35 2023 Great North Woods Stage Race - Distance: 21 miles 2025 Can Am - Distance: 100 |
Julia is so excited to pursue her dreams of running a mid distance team. It's all about the dogs and being out together on an adventure. Each dog brings something unique and special to the team. Julia loves seeing the dogs bond and grow together as they train and race. It's a beautiful and special thing to be working with such incredible athletes and friends. It's an honor and a privilege to share life with these incredible dogs that are apart of our family.
Keven Lariviere
Saint-Félix De Dalquier, QCKeven Lariviere
| From: | Saint-Félix de Dalquier, QC |
| Age: | 40 |
| Occupation: | Capitaine Minier |
| Kennel Name: | Alaskan Kemel |
| Lead Dogs: | Rhum: 2 year old Male Alaskan Whisky: 4 year old Male Alaskan Scotch: 4 year old Male Alaskan Vodka: 4 year old Male Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can am crown (Longest) - Distance: 100 - Place: 3 2025 Boréal 150 - Distance: 45miles - Place: 3 2025 Pg expédition - Distance: 100miles - Place: 10 2022 can am 30 - Distance: 30miles 2023 Pg expédition - Distance: 100miles 2024 Boréal 150 - Distance: 40miles - Place: 2 |
Passionate about hunting and the outdoors, I love being with my dogs in the woods, seeing them evolve within my team. Watching them give their all for me makes me proud of them and makes us a team.
Sally Manikian
Shelburne, NHSally Manikian
| From: | Shelburne, NH |
| Age: | 44 |
| Occupation: | Land Conservation Nonprofit—The Conservation Fund |
| Kennel Name: | Shady Pines Sled Dogs |
| Website: | Shadypinessleddogs.com |
| Lead Dogs: | Stitch: 6 year old Male Alaskan Skee Ball: 6 year old Female Alaskan Dildo: 5 year old Male Alaskan Jax: 8 year old Male Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2016 Can AM 250 (Longest) - Distance: 250 - Place: 6 2023 Can Am 100 - Distance: 100 - Place: 2 2023 Wilderness 35 - Distance: 35 - Place: 1 2025 Copper Dog 80 - Distance: 80 - Place: 3 2020 Can Am 100 - Distance: 100 - Place: 1 2022 Can Am 100 - Distance: 100 - Place: 1 |
This will be my 12th Can Am race—time flies measured in dog years. I've improved a little since that first Can Am 30, thanks to great mentors—both mushers generous with their trails, homes, and knowledge, and the dogs themselves, so many talented and memorable canine athletes. I try to pass on what I've learned and gained, and lately I've been getting beat by mushers I've sold dogs to, which is honestly a fun feeling. Midlife mushing isn't so bad. I just wish we had more snow. Thank you to the hardworking volunteers who put this race together every year, the sponsors who support the race, and to our wonderful host family the Audiberts. Many thanks to the secrets to the dogs success: my supportive partner Chuck for helping keep dogs happy, healthy, and loved, Terry and Connie Eddy as all-round supporters and kennel family, assistant mushers Garett Moore and Brianna Boisselle, and we wouldn't be here without the community of Upton, Maine: neighbors who fix my old ATV, delivering straw, allow us to cross their property, and volunteers and landowners who work year-round keeping trails open and well-maintained. Looking forward to racing on the Can Am trail with my beloved teammates after a few years off! I have no idea what we're racing for until we leave Allagash. So, let's go see what the trail has in store for us this year!
David Riché
Saint Pierre Et Miquelon, Saint Pierre Et MiquelonDavid Riché
| From: | Saint Pierre et Miquelon, Saint Pierre et Miquelon |
| Age: | 43 |
| Occupation: | Musher |
| Kennel Name: | Kennel SPM (Saint Pierre et Miquelon) David Riché |
| Lead Dogs: | Cheyenne: 4 year old Female Alaskan Chinook: 4 year old Female Alaskan Balto: 6 year old Male Alaskan Noyouk: 4 year old Female Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | Sedivakuv Longue Distance (Republique Tcheque) (Longest) - Distance: 200 miles - Place: 3 2022 Vercors Quest Mid - Distance: 150 - Place: 4 2022 Grande Odyssée Mid - Distance: 100 - Place: 4 2021 France Championship sprint - Distance: 5 - Place: 1 2022 France Championship Mid - Distance: 90 - Place: 3 |
Je suis ancien militaire d'infanterie. J'ai fini mon service en 2008....... Je suis le créateur du magazine européen du chiens de traineau. Je travail comme réalisateur pour le cinéma. J'ai une entreprise de travaux multi service à Saint Pierre et Miquelon. J'ai bébé de 9 mois et deux garçons de 8 et 11ans. Je fais de la course à pied
Becki Tucker
Fort Kent , MEBecki Tucker
| From: | Fort Kent , ME |
| Age: | 49 |
| Occupation: | Hope and Justice Shelter Advocate |
| Kennel Name: | Outlaw Ridge Sled Dogs |
| Lead Dogs: | Tantrick : 10 year old Male Alaskan Husky Grit: 7 year old Male Neva : 11 year old Female Alaskan Husky Amazing : 7 year old Male Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2022 Can-Am Crown 250 (Longest) - Distance: 250 - Place: 10 2022 Can-Am 250 - Distance: 250 - Place: 10 2020 Can-Am 250 - Distance: 100 - Place: 8 2017 Can-Am - Distance: 250 - Place: 6 2019 Wilderness Sled Dog Race - Distance: 35 - Place: 6 2019 Can-Am 250 - Distance: 250 - Place: 10 |
After two years away, we're back not chasing the past, but running as one with everything we have earned and nothing left to prove. This year, I chose the 100-mile race intentionally. Not as a step back, but as a return to flow, focus, and joy. This team is built on experience, patience, and deep partnership. The dogs have been with me through countless miles, seasons, and life. At the front is Neva, our 11-year-old leader, whose steadiness, wisdom, and heart set the tone for everything we do. She does not just lead the team she anchors it. We're here with fire, determination, and gratitude. Every mile matters. Every moment counts. This isn't about proving anything or repeating anything it is about moving forward together, fully present, and loving every second on the trail. The real magic isn't about distance or miles; it's about rhythm, flow, trust, and the bond between a musher and her team.
Fayth Weed
Manchester, NHFayth Weed
| From: | Manchester, NH |
| Age: | 40 |
| Occupation: | Flight Nurse |
| Team Owner: | PaulTherriault |
| Lead Dogs: | Mask: Female Alaskan Husky Odessa : Female Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Chic Choc Sled Dog Race (Longest) - Distance: 150 2025 Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race - Distance: 100 2025 Chic Choc Sled Dog Race - Distance: 150 2025 Great North Woods Sled Dog Race - Distance: 25 2026 Wilderness Sled Dog Race - Distance: 60 |
Fayth is a Flight Nurse and Certified Veterinary Technician who has been involved with the Can-Am volunteering with the veterinary team since 2012. She ran her first 100 mile races last year and even travelled to Canada for two races. She enjoyed it so much that she decided to run again this year! When Fayth is not volunteering as a veterinary technician or working she enjoys spending time with her three Siberian Huskies and two Alaskan Huskies (all sled dog retirees). She loves hiking, camping, and adventures with her dogs and boyfriend, Nate.
In Alphabetical Order*:
2026 Pepsi / S W Collins Can-Am 30
In Alphabetical Order
Lea Allen
Lower Kintore, NBLea Allen
| From: | Lower Kintore, NB |
| Age: | 48 |
| Occupation: | English professor at UMPI |
| Kennel Name: | Howling Hill Sled Dogs |
| Lead Dogs: | Jett: 4 year old Female Alaskan husky Carbide (leader): 6 year old Male Alaskan husky Daisy: 4 year old Female Alaskan husky Padmae (leader): 4 year old Female Alaskan husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Chic Chocs 45 (Longest) - Distance: 45 - Place: 3 2025 Chic Chocs 45 - Distance: 45 - Place: 3 2024 Chic Chocs 45 - Distance: 45 - Place: 7 2024 Greenville Wilderness 35 - Distance: 35 - Place: 7 2025 Wilderness - Distance: 30 - Place: 2 2023 Can Am 30 - Distance: 30 - Place: 6 |
Between my jobs as hockey mom and English professor, I find time to run dogs! I love to spend time outside with my four-legged friends, and I enjoy the human friendships I've built through the shared life-style of dog sledding. Thank you to all those (colleagues, family, and friends) who have supported me and enabled me to get here to the start line.
Catherine Benson
Baltimore, MDCatherine Benson
| From: | Baltimore, MD |
| Age: | 51 |
| Kennel Name: | Maryland Sled Dog Adventures LLC |
| Website: | www.marylanddogsledding.com |
| Lead Dogs: | Drogo: 9 year old Male Siberian Husky Boss: 4 year old Male Siberian Husky Stark: 3 year old Male Siberian Husky Alfred: 2 year old Male Siberian Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can Am (Longest) - Distance: 30 - Place: 25 2025 Pond of Safety - Distance: 20 - Place: 20 |
Catherine has been racing and training sled dogs for 25 plus years. She is the owner and operator of Maryland Sled Dog Adventures LLC which offers dog sled rides and educational dog sledding programs to kids and adults. Catherine founded Maryland Sled Dog Adventures in 2007 with her late husband, Eric, also a Can Am finisher. Last year, Catherine ran Can Am for the first time on the 10 year anniversary of her late husband, Eric, running Can Am for the first time. Catherine is ably assisted by the mini mushers, and her chief handlers, her three kids, Ethan, Eloise and Emmaline. Catherine holds two undergraduate degrees of the University of Michigan and a JD from the University of Washington. She is a huge Michigan football fan. Go Blue! When she is not on the trail running dogs, Catherine is an attorney and Partner in the law firm, Simms Showers LLP, specializing in maritime and admiralty litigation.
Rocky Berube
Sainte-Anne De Madawaska, NBRocky Berube
| From: | Sainte-Anne de Madawaska, NB |
| Age: | 35 |
| Occupation: | IT project manager and IT teacher |
| Kennel Name: | Aventures de meute |
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/aventuresdemeute |
| Lead Dogs: | Emeraude: 2 year old Female Alaskan Nova: 2 year old Female Alaskan Stella: 2 year old Female Alaskan Luna: 4 year old Female Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can am Crown 30 miles (Longest) - Distance: 30 - Place: 7 |
(English version follows) Je m'appelle Rocky Bérubé, chargé de projet et enseignant en informatique. Avec ma conjointe Delphine, nous entraînons notre meute selon une approche axée sur le respect des chiens, leur bien-être et une progression constante. Nos chiens sont au cœur de notre quotidien et, afin de soutenir pleinement notre passion, nous avons choisi de nous établir dans un environnement propice à l'entraînement régulier et au développement de notre équipe. My name is Rocky Bérubé, and I am a project manager and computer science instructor. Together with my partner Delphine, we train our dog team using an approach focused on respect, animal welfare, and continuous progression. Our dogs are at the heart of our daily lives, and in order to fully support our passion, we chose to settle in an environment that allows for regular training and the ongoing development of our team.
Claudette Blouin
St-Médard, QCClaudette Blouin
| From: | St-Médard, QC |
| Age: | 67 |
| Occupation: | Retired |
| Lead Dogs: | Sky: 5 year old Female Alaskan Oly: 7 year old Female Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 60 (Longest) |
J'aime le plein air, les chiens et la chasse. Je souhaite respecter le parcours de la course sans me tromper de sentier... Ce sera ma quatrième expérience à la course CAN-AM-CROWN.
Eric Delisle
Mont-Laurier, QCEric Delisle
| From: | Mont-Laurier, QC |
| Age: | 57 |
| Occupation: | Ingénieur Forestier |
| Kennel Name: | Born to Run |
| Lead Dogs: | Mirack: 4 year old Male Alaskan Moolight: 4 year old Female Alaskan Fuerte: 3 year old Male Alaskan Flake: 3 year old Female Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 La Boréale 150 (Longest) - Distance: 46 - Place: 2 2023 Boréale 150 - Distance: 35 - Place: 5 2018 can am crown - Distance: 30 - Place: 3 2023 can am crown - Distance: 30 - Place: 8 |
Everything is so fine and I am so happy to be here, like every time.............and.............I even got an an Handler, this year for training every weekend!...............Thanks to all off you for this race, mushers, public, volonteers, everyone!.
Wyatt Marquis
Fort Kent, MEWyatt Marquis
| From: | Fort Kent, ME |
| Age: | 18 |
| Occupation: | Student |
| Kennel Name: | SDI Kennel |
| Team Owner: | StephaneRoy |
| Lead Dogs: | Snoopy: Male Demon: Male |
| Race Experience: | 2024 100 Mile Wilderness (Longest) - Distance: 35 - Place: 1 2024 La Chic-Chocs - Distance: 45 - Place: 5 2023 Can Am Crown - Distance: 30 - Place: 5 2024 100 Mile Wilderness - Distance: 35 - Place: 1 |
I am 18 years old and live in Fort Kent, Maine. I will be running the second team for SDI Kennel this year. I am really looking forward to running more races this year and seeing what this team of dogs can do.
Aimee Nichols
South Naples, MEAimee Nichols
| From: | South Naples, ME |
| Age: | 44 |
| Occupation: | Sales Rep |
| Lead Dogs: | Akuchi : 7 year old Female Seppala Siberian Takaani (Chubs) : 5 year old Male Seppala Siberian Juneau: 4 year old Female Seppala Siberian Alyeska : 7 year old Female Seppala Siberian |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Can Am (Longest) - Distance: 30 - Place: 14 2026 Wilderness - Distance: 15 - Place: 3 2025 Can Am - Distance: 30 - Place: 14 |
Mushing for me began when I met Jonathan Hayes in 2021 and started working with his dogs at Poland Springs Seppala Kennels in Madawaska. I have been to Alaska now twice with him and ran my first Can Am in 2025 with a borrowed team from his kennel. This year we dove in head first and bought our own team! We now have 10 dogs in our kennel consisting of 9 Seppala Siberians and 1 Yakutian Laika. Juneau will be leading my team again this year in the Can Am 30.
Natasha Phaneuf
Ossipee, NHNatasha Phaneuf
| From: | Ossipee, NH |
| Age: | 33 |
| Kennel Name: | Castarek's Siberians |
| Website: | www.facebook.com/share/g/cWMJxs1h1vyBr271/?mibextid=K35XfP |
| Lead Dogs: | Anakin : 3 year old Male Siberian Husky Merida : 5 year old Female Siberian Husky Banner : 4 year old Male Siberian Husky Bucky : 4 year old Male Siberian Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Great North Woods Stage Race 6dog class (Longest) - Distance: 62 - Place: 4 2026 Lamoille Valley Rail Trail , 1rst place RNB - Distance: 14 - Place: 3 2025 Pond of Safety 6dog class - Distance: 9 - Place: 8 2025 Pond of safety 8dog class - Distance: 12.5 - Place: 5 2025 Laconia World Championships 3day Sprint Race - Distance: 7 - Place: 11 2025 Canam 30 1rst place RNB - Distance: 30 - Place: 14 |
My Siberians are my joy, my passion, my family, my best friends and the reason behind my motivation. I started training them in 2018 and never looked back, they changed my life. I now consistently train 10-16 dog teams and have been focusing more on mid distance, though I love to have fun in local sprint races. The Castarek kennel has come a long way with love dedication and hard work. I wouldn't be with this amazing group of dogs and where I am now without a few very important people and my mentors who I cherish. The kennel name also represents a dog, Casper, whom greatly influenced who I am today and I am proud to honor his memory within our name. Last season we completed this race and placed 14th amongst many competitive teams in harder conditions, I am looking forward to coming back and adventuring the beautiful trail again with my best friends! Wishing everyone a safe and fun run!
Lara Renner
Alton, NHLara Renner
| From: | Alton, NH |
| Age: | 23 |
| Occupation: | Illustrator |
| Kennel Name: | Team Snowspeeder |
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/teamsnowspeeder/ |
| Lead Dogs: | Captain : 11 year old Male Siberian Husky Hera: 10 year old Female Siberian Husky Kylo: 9 year old Male Siberian Husky Artoo: 12 year old Male Siberian Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2018 Junior Iditarod (Longest) - Distance: 150 - Place: 10 2023 Can-Am Crown - Distance: 100 - Place: 15 2019 100 Mile Wilderness Sled Dog Race - Distance: 35 - Place: 2 2019 Can-Am Crown - Distance: 30 - Place: 2 2017 Can-Am Crown - Distance: 100 - Place: 5 2017 100 Mile Wilderness Sled Dog Race - Distance: 35 - Place: 1 |
My family and I adopted our first sled dogs in 2012 from Sibersong Sleddogs and the dream has only grown from there. This is my 13th season running dogs and I could not be more thrilled to be back racing at the Can-Am Crown. My team and I have competed in 3 Can-Am 30s (2015, 2016, 2019) and 3 Can-Am 100s (2017, 2020, 2023) and we are so exited to be at the starting line again. The Can-Am is my favorite race that I have done and it would not be possible without the amazing volunteers and race organizers. Thank you all for putting on such an amazing event.
Patty Richards
Underhill, VTPatty Richards
| From: | Underhill, VT |
| Age: | 62 |
| Occupation: | Energy Consultant |
| Kennel Name: | Thesewoods Kennels |
| Lead Dogs: | Elphaba : 7 year old Female Siberian Husky Gulchie: 7 year old Female Siberian Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2022 Can Am (Longest) - Distance: 100 - Place: 12 2026 Greenville MW - Distance: 35 - Place: 7 2023 Lamoille Valley Rail Trail - Distance: 20 - Place: 10 2020 Can Am - Distance: 30 - Place: 15 2019 Can Am - Distance: 30 - Place: 18 2023 Greenville - Distance: 35 - Place: 16 |
The dog team and I are thrilled to return and see all the friendly and smiling faces at Fort Kent! This is a special and sweet race. An absolute favorite run. This year I dedicate the race to all 24 Siberian huskies at Thesewoods Kennels in Underhill, Vermont. While 6 huskies make the run today, it takes the entire kennel of dogs to make our race team. We spent months running in mud, slush, rain and snow. It truly takes a village as is said but for me it is the 4 legged kind. While it is countless hours caring for 24 dogs, the wagging tails, smiling and happy furry faces make it all worth it. Can Am we run for you! For all our dogs, May the snow be soft beneath your feet, May the warmth of your humans that love you fill your heart, May you be happy and fulfilled to be the best sled dog ever. Run true! Run happy! Run fast! Happy trails Thesewoods Kennel Dogs! Thank you everyone involved in putting on this great race! And of course, to all you crazy and fun spectators, hip hip hooray to all of you cheering us on. Your support and encouragement mean so much. It really makes our sendoff thrilling and rewarding. Thank you!
Stephane Roy
Sainte-Anne-de-Madawaska, NBStephane Roy
| From: | Sainte-Anne-de-Madawaska, NB |
| Age: | 35 |
| Occupation: | Sawmill |
| Kennel Name: | Sdi racing kennel |
| Lead Dogs: | pongo: 3 year old Male Alaskan Sluch: 4 year old Alaskan |
| Race Experience: | 2025 pedigree stage stop race (Longest) - Distance: 7 days x 30 to 35 milw - Place: 4 2025 can-am 30 - Distance: 30 - Place: 2 2023 Can-am 30 - Distance: 30 - Place: 2 2023 Defi lotbiniere nahak - Distance: 14 - Place: 1 2023 Defi mauricie - Distance: 14 - Place: 1 |
Born and raised in st anne, started dog sledding since the age of 5 , been dog sledding since, its my passion...In the next few years i plan on traveling canada for dog sled competition
Amelia Schwarz
Slippery Rock, PAAmelia Schwarz
| From: | Slippery Rock, PA |
| Age: | 21 |
| Occupation: | Student |
| Kennel Name: | Thesewoods Kennels |
| Team Owner: | IngridBower |
| Lead Dogs: | Sailor: 5 year old Male Siberian Husky Rush: 9 year old Female Siberian Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 Great North Woods Sled Dog Challenge (Longest) - Distance: 24 - Place: 5 2026 Pond Safety Fun Run - Distance: 12 - Place: 4 |
This is my first time racing at Can-Am, and I'm excited to experience the trail I've heard so much about! My sled dog journey began two years ago, when I made the last-minute decision to sign up for an internship at Thesewoods Kennels through my university, and I've been hooked ever since! Thank you Ingrid and Patty for trusting me with your dogs, the rest of the Thesewoods crew for all of your hard work, and, of course, thank you to the dogs - this is all for you!
Nicole Simas
Jeffersonville , VTNicole Simas
| From: | Jeffersonville , VT |
| Age: | 25 |
| Kennel Name: | Thesewoods Kennel |
| Team Owner: | IngridBower |
| Race Experience: | 2026 Wilderness (Longest) - Distance: 35 miles - Place: 9 |
Originally from Massachusetts, Nicole now resides in Northern Vermont. Nicole's journey with sled dogs began five years ago, when she decided last-minute to join a dog sledding internship through her university. Little did she know, she would soon be hooked! This is Nicole's first time competing at Can-Am, and she couldn't be more excited to get out there and see the trail! Nicole would like to thank Ingrid and Patty for giving her the opportunity to run their dogs and experience this race. As well as the rest of the Thesewoods Crew, who have been hard at work training and caring for the dogs all season. Plus, her partner Ryan, who is holding down the fort back home.
Alexander Therriault
Oxford, MEAlexander Therriault
| From: | Oxford, ME |
| Age: | 33 |
| Occupation: | Musher |
| Kennel Name: | Ultimate Dog Sledding Experience |
| Website: | https://ultimatedogsleddingexperience.com/ |
| Lead Dogs: | Hero: 7 year old Male Alaskan Husky |
| Race Experience: | 2022 CAN AM (Longest) - Distance: 30 miles - Place: 2 |
Alex was born to Mush. His father's victory in the Can-Am when Alex was only three ignited a lifelong goal: to see two generations of Therriault mushers on the Can-Am champion's list. Now the owner of New England's largest dog sled touring operation - The Ultimate Dog Sledding Experience in Canton Maine - Alex continues to train his team on the same trails that shaped his family's legacy. For Alex, this race is more than a competition — it's a pursuit of heritage and a tribute to the dogs his family has raised, loved, and welcomed home for generations.
Emily Thomas-kelly
Rindge, NHEmily Thomas-kelly
| From: | Rindge, NH |
| Age: | 37 |
| Occupation: | Veterinarian technician |
| Kennel Name: | Milky way kennels |
| Lead Dogs: | Scorpio : 10 year old Male Alaskan husky Neptune : 9 year old Male Alaskan husky Polaris : 3 year old Male Siberian Husky Leo: 4 year old Male Alaskan husky |
| Race Experience: | 2025 CanAm (Longest) - Distance: 30 miles - Place: 19 2025 Laconia nh - Distance: 15 miles - Place: 13 |
I'm back ready or not. I'm a no longer a rookie but still got a lot to learn. Now with a bigger team I'm off to do more races this year. I live in nh and am a mom of 2 wonderful boys all who also have started training dogs and racing. My superhero husband is my biggest supporter and is always there to help with holding dogs or fixing broken sleds. This is amazing that I get to do this again. Ready, let's go!

