Meet the Can-Am 2009 mushers...

Don Hibbs
From: Millinocket, ME Age: 52 Occupation: lodge owner & manager Web Address: http://www.nahmakanta.com Team Owner: Don Hibbs Lead Dogs: Arrow; 9 year old male Alaskan JJ; 6 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Yukon Quest (1000mi); 9 place 1995 Can-Am 250; 3 place 2007 Can-Am 250; 4 place 2008

" Married for 17 years to Angel (a former successful racer herself). We have three children, Derek (17), Ryan (14), and Fredericka (9). We operate Nahmakanta Lake Camp, a wilderness camp near Baxter Park. We've had sled dogs for almost 26 years. Taking care of our kids, dogs and business doesn't leave much spare time, but my two sons and I like to take a few weeks off in late summer for a canoe trip in Northern Canada. My son and daughter also have a passion for the dogs, and they enjoy helping out in the kennel and running the dogs."

Don has won the Can-Am 250 three times, placed second in the UP200 twice, and won the Labrador 400 in 1996. He has done lots of wilderness mushing in Canada and Alaska, and he has 20 years of experience as a dogsled tour operator.

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Jason Barron
From: Lincoln, MT Age: 36 Occupation: dog musher Team Owner: Jason Barron Lead Dogs: Clumber; 5 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Iditarod (1100mi); 13 place 2007 Iditarod; 8 place 2006 Beargrease (400mi); 1 place 2008 Seeley Lake 200; 2 place 2008

Jason is a second generation dog driver who resides in Lincoln, Montana with his wife Harmony and their daughter Oksana. Jason has competed in sled dog events throughout North America. He has been mushing for more than 30 years.

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Mitch Ingerson
From: Jefferson, NH Age: 48 Occupation: self employed Web Address: http://www.nevahomekennels.com Team Owner: Nevahome Kennel Lead Dogs: Neil; 2 year old male Alaskan Cassin; 2 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 250; 10 place 2004 Eagle Lake 100; 6 place 2006 Greenville 100; 13 place 2007

"I am very lucky to be married and to have a beautiful daughter and awesome kennel. With a little luck and Matt Carsten's help, we plan to race very hard for the next few years."

Mitch has been mushing since 1999. He and his wife, Kricket, are the owners of Nevahome Kennels in Jefferson, New Hampshire. Mitch and Kricket will both be racing in the Can-Am 250 this year.

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Christine Richardson
From: Canaan, NH Age: 43 Occupation: antibody engineer Web Address: http://www.sealcovekennel.com Team Owner: Christine Richardson Lead Dogs: Tarzan; 4 year old male Alaskan Daisy; 3 year old female Alaskan Glock; 3 year old male Alaskan Java; 5 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 250; 19 place 2007 Wilderness 100; 5 place 2007 Stratford Nighthawks (2x30mi); 1 place 2007

I live in Canaan, NH with 40 alaskan huskies. I've been mushing since 1994 when I only had 3 pet dogs who only went forward if I walked in front of them. Now I have a time just staying on the sled! I love mushing because of the teamwork and bond that develops between me and my dogs. This year we are lucky to have a wonderful handler, Sandi, to help us train.

I started sprint racing in 1996 and have slowly changed over to mid-distance racing. Occasionally I will also give rides to brave folks who dare to get on a dogsled with me. :-)

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Claude Baril
From: St-Zenon, QC Age: 58 Occupation: window installer Team Owner: Claude Baril Lead Dogs: Gus; 3 year old male Sula; 5 year old female Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 1 place 2008 St-Michel Defi Taureau (50mi); 1 place 2008 Greenville Wilderness 100; 1 place 2008 St-Pamphile (60mi); 1 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 1 place 2008

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Andre Longchamps

From: Pont-Rouge, QC Age: 38 Occupation: tractor driver Team Owner: Andre Longchamps Lead Dogs: Pitoune; 9 year old female Alaskan Victor; 3 year old male Alaskan Blondy; 3 year old male Alaskan Barney; 8 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 250; 2 place 2008 St-Pamphile (120mi); 2 place 2008 Greenville Wilderness 100; 4 place 2008 Eagle Lake 100; 3 place 2008 Greenville Wilderness 100; 1 place 2005

The Can-Am 250 is the race of all races. I hope to have a lot of snow this winter to allow enough training for the dogs. Sled dog racing and training are a big part of my life. My wife also does some races (60 miles). We have a 6 year old son.

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Kricket Ingerson
From: Jefferson, NH Age: 38 Occupation: self employed Web Address: http://www.nevahomekennels.com Team Owner: Nevahome Kennels Lead Dogs: Alley; 5 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 7 place 2007 Sandwich Notch 30; Craftsbury 30; Can-Am 60;

"I spend most of my time raising my daughter and training puppies to race. I've been mushing since 1999, and I've run in many races during the last eight years."

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Caroline Morin

From: Ste-Helene de Bagot, QC Age: 43 Occupation: President of Les Aliments Alternatifs 2000, Inc Web Address: http://www.huskysiberienniikeenuk.com/eng/menu.html Team Owner: Caroline Morin Lead Dogs: Lancelot; 9 year old male Siberian Lola; 9 year old female Siberian Soleil; 5 year old female Siberian Tina; 4 year old female Siberian Fuego; 4 year old male Siberian William; 4 year old male Siberian Race Experience: Longest: La Grande Odysee, France (625mi); 17 place 2008 L'Odysee Appalachienne (60mi); 5 place 2008 La Grande Odysee, France (625mi); 14 place 2006 Can-Am Crown 60; 14 place 2005

I am 43 years old and I have been running a Siberian team since 1990. What I like most about mushing is to forget about everything once I am on the runners… at that moment, I am no longer president of a company. I no longer have bills to pay. I can relax and enjoy the present moment along with my dog friends. After running twice in La Grande Odysee in France (2006 and 2008), my goals are now to race the Yukon Quest and the Iditarod in 2011. Until then, I will put my energy into training my team and make them live the type of experience they will need to race up there. I also plan to race the Hudson Bay Quest at the end of March 2009. Thanks to my husband Thomas, and all my dogs that work with me to live these beautiful moments.

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Hank DeBruin

From: Haliburton, ON Age: 46 Occupation: dogsled tour operator and millwright Web Address: http://www.winterdance.com Team Owner: Winterdance Dogsled Tours Lead Dogs: Max; 8 year old male Siberian Lily; 6 year old female Siberian Strider; 4 year old male Siberian Snoopy; 4 year old male Siberian Race Experience: Longest: Seney 300; 7 place 2008 Marmora 120; 8 place 2007 Can-Am 60; 24 place 2008 Bancroft 60; ? place 2007

My wife Tanya and I started our life with huskies 15 years ago, and now have a touring kernel of 140 purebred Siberian Huskies. Everyone in our family is involved and runs dogs, including my wife and children Logan 8, Dustyn 6, and Michaela 2. We also have a baby girl, Jessica. We have made our home in the snowy and beautiful wilderness highlands of Haliburton. Long distance mushing has long been the kennels goal and we are thrilled to be at the Can-Am again this year with our Siberians!

We have run a touring kennel of 140 dogs for 9 years now and Hank is on a sled 7 days a week from December - April.

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Larry Murphy
From: Fort Kent, ME Age: 57 Occupation: teaching - principal Team Owner: Larry Murphy Lead Dogs: Reggie; 6 year old female Alaskan Dawn; 6 year old female Alaskan Goose; 6 year old male Alaskan Hazel; 6 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 250; 15 place 2007 Eagle Lake 100; 8 place 2007 Can-Am 60; 19 place 2006

I am a grandfather of four and have been mushing for ten years. I own a kennel of 24 dogs with my son-in-law Jason Bennett. I hope to see my grandchildren mushing and racing someday.

I cherish all the time and miles spent with my dogs. It is a very rewarding experience each and every time."

Larry has also raced in the Can-Am Crown 30, Katahdin 100, the Greenville Wilderness 100 and the St. Pamphile 120.

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Gavin Baker

From: Almonte, ON Age: 39 Occupation: carpenter / dog box manufacturer Web Address: http://www.traildancer.com Team Owner: Gavin Baker Lead Dogs: Shimano; 4 year old female Alaskan Deets; 4 year old male Alaskan Hector; 2 year old male Alaskan Sapphire; 3 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 60; 11 place 2008 Rideau Lakes Cup (2x25mi); 8 place 2008 Bancroft 45; 14 place 2007 Marmora 25; 16 place 2007 Eldorado 50; 16 place 2007

"I have been mushing dogs for over 12 years, and last year was my first time at the Can-Am. I participated in the 60 mile race and had a great time. This year I am going to run the 250 mile race and use it along with the John Beargrease Marathon as my qualifing races for the Iditarod which I am planning on running in 2011."

Gavin owned and operated a sleddog tour business in the Ottawa area. He was the Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Sleddog sports 2007 and 2008. Also, he handled for a friend at the 2008 International Pedigree Stage Stop race in Wyoming.

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Rita Wehseler

From: Tofte, MN Age: 44 Occupation: baker / kennel owmer Web Address: http://www.stoneycreeksleddogs.com Team Owner: Rita Wehseler Lead Dogs: Ruby; 5 year old female Alaskan Slowpoke; 5 year old male Alaskan Niki; 7 year old female Alaskan Acadia; 3 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Beargrease 500; 3 place 2000 Can-Am 250; 6 place 2008 Can-Am 250; 2 place 2007 Beargrease 380; 9 place 2008 White Oak Classic (130mi); 10 place 2008

Rita and Bill own and operate Stoney Creek Sleddogs, a racing kennel and touring business. They have 44 dogs and puppies that keep them busy year round. Rita was the first woman ever to finish the Can-Am Crown 250 and is the highest placing woman to date.

When the snow melts, you can find Rita working in the bakery or playing softball.

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Matt Carstens
From: Whitefield, NH Age: 36 Occupation: dog handler Web Address: http://www.nevahomekennels.com Team Owner: Nevahome Kennel Lead Dogs: Blackfoot; 5 year old female Alaskan Apache; 5 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Beargrease 400; 12 place 2006 Beargrease 400; 3 place 2008 UP200; 6 place 2008 Can-Am 250; 3 place 2008

"Hi, My name is Matt Carstens. My daughter, Delia, is 9 years old, and she is a big help whenever she is in the dog yard. I love the lifestyle that dog mushing has allowed me to live, and I plan to be around for awhile. I enjoy working around my home and in my woodwork shop. My race team is approaching their fifth season with the exception of my three-year-olds, Duke and Chico. They will round out a very solid 12 dog team."

Matt has been mushing since 1996, and he has had a lot of experience in many races. He won the Eagle Lake 100 in 2006 and 2007. He won the Can-Am Crown 250 in 2006.

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Martin Massicotte

From: St-Tite, QC Age: 40 Occupation: pavement contractor Team Owner: Martin Massicotte Lead Dogs: Ti-Blanc; 6 year old male Canadian huskies Tac; 4 year old female Canadian huskies Buck; 8 year old male Canadian huskies Coyote; 5 year old male Canadian huskies Race Experience: Longest: Yukon Quest (1000mi); 6 place 2003 Can-Am 250; 2 place 2006 Can-Am 250; 1 place 2008 Odyssee Appalachienne (120mi); 1 place 2008

Martin started dogssledding when he was 8 years old. After doing sprint races, he decided to try some longer sled dog races such as the Can-Am 250, Labrador 400, and UP 200. Finally he realised one of his dreams when he raced the Yukon Quest in 2003, where he got Rookie of the Year and finished with bad frostbite. He won the Can-Am 250 four times, and he would like to win it again!!! The Can-Am is his preferred race because of the nice organisation and the people.

In the future, he would like to race again in the Yukon Quest and also run the Iditarod. Martin's hobby is Mushing, Mushing, and Mushing.

In 2006, 2007, and 2008, Martin ran some other 100 mile races in Maine, like the Eagle Lake and the Greenville Wilderness, where he finished in the top five. Exit

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Sylvain Robillard

From: Saint-Gabriel De Brandon, QC Age: 42 Occupation: carpenter / horse shoer Team Owner: Sylvain Robillard Lead Dogs: Keops; 8 year old female Ellis x Streeper Jet; 5 year old male Reddington x Ryan Flash; 4 year old male Streeper x Beck Porto; 2 year old male Swingley x Reddington Race Experience: Longest: Wilderness 100; 3 place 2008 St-Pamphile 60; 1 place 2007 Nenana, Alaska (30mi); 1 place 2006

Sylvain worked as a handler for Jacques and Magali Philips in Alaska (2005-2006).

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Bruce Langmaid
From: Blackstock, ON Age: 50 Occupation: Kennel Operator Team Owner: Bruce Langmaid Lead Dogs: Brave Heart; 2 year old male Alaskan Louie; 6 year old male Alaskan Eddie; 3 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Beargrease (400mi); 8 place 2006 UP 200; 11 place 2006 Can-Am 250; 3 place 2006 Can-Am 250; 8 place 2007

After several years of distractions in building a new house and a short retirement from racing, my wife Pauline and I are looking forward to seeing our young team mature. I have many new dogs and hope to have a real team in 3 years, but feel I'm ready to take on whatever the Can-Am has to throw at me. My goal is to be the oldest musher ever to win the race. Bring on the snow and the hills!

8th Place Wyoming - 15 years running
8th Place Grand Portage - first year running
Can-Am - 1st, lst, 3rd, 3rd, 3rd, 8th
Can-Am 60 - 2nd

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Todd Sullivan
From: Lanark, ON Age: 38 Occupation: timber frame/log home builder Team Owner: Todd Sullivan Lead Dogs: Reddie; female Alaskan Ruth; female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 60; 3 place 2008 Eldorado 60; 2 place 2008 Newboro 50; 7 place 2008

"This will be our second year of racing, and we are hoping for another snowy winter. We have gradually started to increase our kennel and are up to 12 characters at present. No kidding, this sport sure is addictive! Last racing season was a blast, and your 60 miler at Fort Kent to end the season was the icing on the cake. Can't wait till 2009's racing season. Cheers. The Sullivan's."

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Al Hardman
From: Ludington, MI Age: 66 Occupation: Retired construction company owner Web Address: http://www.alcankennels.com Team Owner: Al Hardman Lead Dogs: Edier; 7 year old male Alaskan Ruddy; 7 year old male Alaskan Soap; 5 year old male Alaskan Tinker; 6 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Iditarod (1150mi); 21 place 2002 Seney 300; 6 place 2008

"I have run four Iditarods and many mid-distance races. My kennel has finished eight Iditarods and many UP200, Beargrease, and other races in the midwest. Before I retire from dog mushing, I would like to run a few more of the mid-distance races and maybe even the Yukon Quest. I live in Ludington, Michigan and train north of McMillan, MI in the UP (Upper Peninsula). I am married to Carole, and she does not love dog mushing. I have 5 children and 11 grand kids."

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Ed Obrecht
From: Ladysmith, QC Age: 38 Occupation: musher Team Owner: Ed Obrecht Lead Dogs: Mustang; year old male Alaskan Sporty; year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Hudson Bay Quest; 13 place 2008 Longest: Hudson Bay Quest; 7 place 2007 Percy DeWolf; 5 place 2006

Hi, I'm Ed The Sled. I am really looking forward to this years race. Last year things went wrong and then wronger. This year I am hoping to see a little more of the beautiful country side that the Can-Am runs across. Looking forward to seeing you all there.

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Denis Tremblay

From: St. Michel des Saints, QC Age: 34 Occupation: Truck Driver Team Owner: Denis Tremblay Lead Dogs: Jack; 3 year old male Jacques Phillip Agoras; 5 year old female Jacques Phillip Agathe; 4 year old female Jacques Phillip Roxie; 2 year old female Jacques Phillip Dounne; 2 year old male Jacques Phillip Kitten; 2 year old male Jacques Phillip Race Experience: Longest: UP 200; 14 place 2008 Can-Am 30; 1 place 1997 Can-Am 30; 1 place 2000 Eagle Lake; 6 place 2008 Appalachienne 120; 3 place 2008

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Andy Benkendorf
From: Mine Hill, NJ Age: 39 Occupation: landscaper Team Owner: Andy Benkendorf Lead Dogs: Salem; 4 year old male Alaskan Roxy; 6 year old female Alaskan Mag; 4 year old female Alaskan Brandi; 4 year old female Alaskan Max; 5 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 15 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 24 place 2006 Can-Am 60; 19 place 2008

I love to run dogs, have been mushing for 12 years. I love the camaraderie with dogs and wouldn't give them up for anything. I started with sprint racing for 8 years (Tug Hill, Luconia, Mechanic Lake, and High Point), then switched to distance for more time with the dogs. I now have enough experience to run any race or distance with my dogs. Over the years I've also taught my friends and others how to run dogs. My wife Carolyn and I have a 2 year old son Nicholas. Some day he may also love mushing. I grew up in Jersey and am still here, but we are moving to Alaska in two years when Carolyn finishes her nursing school. We're going to be with friends who have the same love of dogs, and I hope to run the big distance races like the Quest and the Iditarod.

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Jennifer Freking
From: Finland, MN Age: 28 Occupation: veterinarian Web Address: http://www.racingsiberians.com Team Owner: Jennifer Freking Lead Dogs: Muski; 5 year old male Siberian Trekkie; 8 year old female Siberian Mac; 6 year old male Siberian Altoid; 7 year old male Siberian Race Experience: Longest: Iditarod; 50 place 2008 Beargrease; 5, 3, 2 place 08, 06, 05 Can-Am 60; 8 place 2006 UP 200; 4 place 2006

Jennifer and Blake Freking own Manitou CrossingKennels in Finland, MN, home to their 80 Racing Siberian Huskies. Jennifer has been training and racing sled dogs since she was 9 years old. She began racing her dogs in Junior 3 dog class at North Star Sled Dog Club races in 1989. She ran her first mid-distance event in 1994 and loved the silence and beauty of the longer trails. Dr. Jennfer Freking graduated from University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2004 and practices large and small animal medicine at the Ely Veterinary Clinic in Ely, MN.

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Blake Freking
From: Finland, MN Age: 35 Web Address: http://www.racingsiberians.com Team Owner: Blake Freking Lead Dogs: Jodi; 7 year old male Siberian Touble; 8 year old female Siberian Race Experience: Longest: Iditarod; 46 place 2000 Yukon Quest; 12 place 2005 Beargrease; 1 place 2004 Can-Am 250; 6 place 2006

2008 and 2000 Iditarod veteran, 2005 Yukon Quest veteran, and 2004 Beargrease champion, Blake Freking was born in Heron Lake, MN. He began skijoring with his Siberians in 1991. From 1998-2000, Blake worked with the Anadyr Siberians at Earl and Natalie Norris' Howling Dog Farm in Willow, Alaska. In the 2000 Iditarod, the fourth event of his racing career, Blake finished 46th of 81 teams. In 2005, he finished 12th in the 1000 mile Yukon Quest.

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Adam Cummings
From: White River Junction, VT Age: 29 Occupation: land surveyor Team Owner: Adam & Ngarewa Cummings Lead Dogs: Miracle; 5 year old female Alaskan Crystal; 5 year old female Alaskan Matea; 3 year old male Alaskan Dickens; 7 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am30; 13 place 2008 Stratford Nighthawks (2x30mi); 5 place 2008 Can-Am30; 16 place 2006

My wife, Ngarewa, and I have been running sleddogs for five seasons. For my real job, I am a Land Surveyor in Norwich, Vermont. In our limited free time we enjoy snowboarding and pretty much any activity that involves the outdoors. I love sleddogs for their natural abilities and eagerness to face any challenge in front of them without hesitation.

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Kasey McCarty
From: New Portland, ME Age: 21 Occupation: secretary Web Address: http://www.fortilliokennels.com Team Owner: Kasey McCarty Lead Dogs: Kody Kid; 8 year old male Siberian Kaleeta; 5 year old female Siberian Aryan; 5 year old male Siberian Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am30; 22 place 2007 Blanchard 30; 6 place 2002

I came and raced the 30 miler last year and thought it was a very exciting experience for both me and my dogs. The support that this race gets is just amazing. It is organized so well that, lets just say I plan on coming back every year!

I have switched from sprint racing to mid-distance racing within the past couple of years, and it has been a growing adventure every step of the way! We keep climbing up to eventually running the Can Am 250. Bear with us!

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Eric Chagnon
From: Parent, QC Age: 42 Occupation: forestry foreman Team Owner: Eric Chagnon Lead Dogs: Poilu; 7 year old male Quebec Mutt Cartouche; 5 year old male Quebec Mutt Race Experience: Longest: St-Pamphile 66; 3 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 4 place 2008 St-Michel des Saints (25mi); 10 place 2008

Eric likes hunting and trapping. He operates a small business of dog sled tours.

He was a handler at the Yukon Quest from 2003 to 2005.

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Lindy Howe

From: Stockholm, ME Age: 45 Occupation: criminal justice instructor Web Address: http://www.dogtec.com/kennel/getkennel.asp?idAccount=360 Team Owner: Lindy Howe Lead Dogs: Ace; 5 year old male pointer cross Aliy; 5 year old female pointer cross Austin; 5 year old male pointer cross Autumn; 8 year old female Alaskan Fischer; 6 year old female pointer cross Solo; 7 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 60; 25 place 2008 Can-Am 30; 19 place 2007

This will be the third time that my team and I will be running a Can Am race. After running the 30 and then the 60, the goal is to do well enough in the 60 to qualify for the 250. We will keep trying, because we have so much fun in the Fort Kent community during this race weekend. After surviving record breaking snow amounts last winter here in Northern Maine, we are hoping to do a little less shoveling and a lot more training.

We have competed and volunteered in sprint races for many years. We also have been involved with many educational and recreational programs for Boy Scouts of America, Camp Fire Girls, Pet Quarters, and various public and private school settings. We try to promote the world of dog sports in every way.

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Amelie Aubut
From: Pont-Rouge, QC Age: 28 Occupation: government worker Team Owner: Amelie Aubut Lead Dogs: Sagwa; 6 year old female Alaskan Carter; 4 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 5 place 2006 Can-Am 60; 7 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 4 place 2007 Can-Am 60; 4 place 2006 Greenville 100; 9 place 2007 St-Pamphile 60; 4 place 2008

My favorite race is the Can-Am Crown. The people there are the most friendly and sociable. I also really like the 250 race, because my husband (Andre Longchamps) does this race. We also have horses, and I do barrel racing shows in the summer time. We have a 6 year old boy.

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Rob Cooke

From: Shubenacadie, NS Age: 42 Occupation: aircraft engineer Web Address: http://www.shaytaanhuskies.com Team Owner: Rob & Louise Cooke Lead Dogs: Hektor; 3 year old male Siberian Paris; 3 year old male Siberian Medea; 3 year old female Siberian Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 16 place 2008 Can-Am 30; 19 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 24 place 2007 Bartlett 25; 8 place 2008 Stratford 2x30; 8 place 2007

I have been racing Siberians in sprint and mid-distance racing since 1999 and 2005 respectively. We moved across to Canada from Great Britain in 2005 with our 9 Siberian Huskies and loved the country and lifestyle so much that we now have 29 dogs and plan to remain in North America.

This will be the third year entered in the Can Am; I ran the 60 in 2007 and the 30 in 2008. Following on from finishing the Eagle Lake 100 in 2008, we are hoping to do a few more 'longer' mid distance races this winter with the aim of improving on last year. Up until Dec 2008 I was an aircraft engineer in the UK Royal Navy but decided to retire so as to better pursue our mushing hobby/addiction.

I did dryland sprint racing in the UK 1999-2005.

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Dave Turner

From: Sandy, OR Age: 37 Occupation: software engineer Web Address: http://www.dogtec.com/kennel/getkennel.asp?idAccount=114 Team Owner: Dave Turner Lead Dogs: Spindrift; 5 year old male Alaskan Kryptonite; 4 year old male Alaskan Outlaw; 4 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Seeley 200; 11 place 2007 Green River (14mi); 1 place 2006 & 2007 Midnight Run (91mi); 8 place 2007 & 4 place 2008 Beargrease Mid-Distance (137mi); 9 place 2008

Dave and his 15 huskies live and train in the foothills of Mt Hood east of Portland, OR. They have been competing in 8 dog races for the past couple of years and are excited to make their first trip to the Northeast.

"This is my 5th racing season. In addition to racing, I do several school visits with the dogs and do a couple of auction rides to help raise money for my company's charity."

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Marc Alain

From: St. Etienne des Gres, QC Age: 46 Occupation: police sergent Team Owner: Marc Alain Lead Dogs: Blade; 3 year old male Alaskan Angel; 4 year old female Alaskan Black; 4 year old male Alaskan Diger; 6 year old male Alaskan Belle; 3 year old female Alaskan Boss; 4 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Odyssee Appalachienne (65mi); 8 place 2007 Can-Am 60; 20 place 2006 Can-Am 60; 16 place 2007 Can-Am 60; 9 place 2008

This will be the fourth time I come to the Can-Am Crown. It's the best race I have done since I started racing. I started mushing in 1996 with three German Shepherd dogs. At that time we sold our house in town to go live in the country with my dream of 8 huskies. When I decided to race, I chose Alaskan Huskies. Almost all of my Alaskans come from the kennel of Martin Massicotte, a great musher. This year I come with the intention of finishing in the top three. My wife, Natahlie, and I take care of our two sons, Marc Antoine and Tristan, plus 23 dogs and two horses. To all mushers I say, "Take care, we will see you at the end of February."

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John Miller

From: Sandyston, NJ Age: 49 Occupation: construction surveyor Team Owner: the Miller family Lead Dogs: Courtney; 5 year old female Alaskan Ontario; 5 year old female Alaskan Gibson; 2 year old male Alaskan P. Diddy; 5 year old male Alaskan Indi; 6 year old male Alaskan Anna; 6 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Kearney (80mi); 10 place 2008 Bancroft 50; 2008 Can-Am 30; 11 place 2006 Can-Am 60; 22 place 2008

I am coming back this year to finish the Can-Am 60 as opposed to the Can-Am 70. I promised my dogs and my family that I will follow the trail signs this year.

We always have a fantastic time in Fort Kent. Looking forward to a great race!

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Sylvain Voyer

From: St-Donat-Rimouski, QC Age: 32 Occupation: debroussailleur Team Owner: Sylvain Voyer Lead Dogs: Blue; 2 year old female Alaskan Shelsy; 2 year old female Alaskan Molson; 2 year old male Alaskan Shailow; 3 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Defi Kempt (81mi); 2 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 8 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 15 place 2007 L'Odyssee Appalachienne (30mi); 6 place 2008 L'Odyssee Appalachienne (67mi); 5 place 2007

Il a deja ete proprietaire d'une compagnie de tourisme effrent la possibilite de faire des expeditions de traineau a chiens. Pratique le traineau depuis 14 ans et ca fait seulement 3 ans qu'il fait de la course mid-distance.

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Eli Golton
From: L'Amable, ON Age: 14 Occupation: student & pooper scooper Team Owner: Eli Golton Lead Dogs: Foote; 7 year old male Alaskan Yoda; 4 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Kearney 80; 7 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 20 place 2007 Can-Am 60; 14 place 2008 Bancroft 50; 2006, 2007, & 2008 Marmora (25mi); 12 place 2007 Eldorado 50; 2006, 2007, & 2008

This year will be my third year running the Can-Am Crown 60 mile race. I love running the great trails. It is great to run this race with my brother, Jake and my dad, Ken. I look forward to running the 250 mile race in the near future.

Other races include Michigan 2007 - Newbury 40 mile.

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Paul Boudreau
From: L’Assomption, QC Age: 65 Occupation: retired security officer Team Owner: Paul Boudreau Lead Dogs: Blue; 3 year old female Alaskan-Hound Beauty; 3 year old female Alaskan-Hound Race Experience: Longest: CAC 250; 2 place 98 & 96 CAC 250; 3 place 93 CAC 250; 4 place 94 & 97 CAC 60; place 99, 00, 01 & 08 CAC 30; 12 place 2003

After all these years of mushing, I still enjoy the thrill of mushing the Can-Am and meeting my friends at Fort Kent.

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Jacob Golton
From: L’Amable, ON Age: 17 Occupation: student Team Owner: Jacob Golton Lead Dogs: Ricky; 4 year old male Alaskan Molly; 3 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: CAC 250; 9 place 2008 Marmora 120; 5 place 2007 Bancroft 80; 2 place 06, 07 & 08 Eldorado 50; 2 place 06, 07 & 08 Kearney 80; 3 place 06, 07 & 08

I ran the Can-Am Crown 250-mile race in 2008, and it was fantastic! It was the highlight of my racing season. I won Rookie of the race and placed 9th. It was an awesome experience. Thank you to the race committee. I look forward to running the 60 mile race and the 250 race again soon.

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Kathy Lesinski
From: Broad Brook, CT Age: 42 Occupation: full time musher & part time teacher Web Address: http://www.ka-bi-siberians.com Team Owner: Kathy & Bill Lesinski Lead Dogs: Bonnie; 4 year old female Siberian Coal; 4 year old male Siberian Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 11 place 2008 Stratford Nighthawks; 1 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 13 place 2008 Bartlett Fun Run; 1 place 2008

Bill and I have 21 Siberians that we have mostly raised as pups. We are one of the few handful of mushers in the state of Connecticut and I am the only born and raised female distance musher in the state. Bill fishes all summer for blues, and I compete in agility trials with two of my Siberians. I look forward to the Can-Am each year as it is the best race in all of New England. This will be my 5th year racing, but my 4th year racing an all Siberian team.

I'm hoping to move up to longer races as I increase the size of our kennel. Shooting to run Can-Am 250 in 2010. Last year I was only the second US citizen in the top 14 of the Can-Am 60 and the fastest Siberian team in the race.

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Wesley Baum
From: Dryden, NY Age: 46 Occupation: livestock caretaker Team Owner: Wesley Baum Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 60; 11 place 2005 Can-Am 30; 15 place 2007

I have been married to my wife, Sharon, for 20 years. I have a son, Jonathan (21) and daughter, Erin (16). I've been running dogs for seven years. I try to make it to the Can-Am every year ... maybe it's the free T-shirt! I look forward to the race every year, because I really enjoy the race, the town, and the people, especially the O'Malleys, my host family. They always make my stay a pleasant one.

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Marie-Eve Drouin
From: Metabechoan-Lac-A-La-Croi, QC Age: 25 Team Owner: Marie-Eve Drouin Lead Dogs: Lune; 2 year old female Alaskan Dakota; 6 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: L'Odyssee Appalachienne (64mi); 2 place 2008 L'Odyssee Appalachienne (64mi); 8 place 2007 Defi du Lac St-Jean (68mi); 1 place 2004 La Ticouape; 2 place 2006

Mushing since 1990.
Racing since 1996.
I raised most of my dogs.
Mushing is a must in my life… a real passion.

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Rhonda O'Hearn
From: Sandown, NH Age: 40 Occupation: financial initiatives coordinator Web Address: http://www.mishawum.com Team Owner: Robert & Rhonda O'Hearn Race Experience: Longest: Midnight Run (90mi); 20 place 2005 Can-Am 60; 13 place 2007

Rhonda was born and raised in Massachusetts. She and her husband Bob moved to Sandown, NH in 1999 in search of recreational trails, wooded land and a dog-friendly area to plant their roots. Some of Rhonda's favorite and most treasured mushing memories revolve around the now defunct non-motorized playgrounds of Mattawin and Phillips Brook.

Rhonda is VP of the North Country Mushers, a non-profit NH based organization, partnering with snowmobile clubs to encourage the growth and understanding of the sport of dog mushing in Northern New England by promoting and sanctioning races, organizing social and fund-raising events and ensuring the safe and ethical treatment of all participants.

Prior to March 2008, she and husband Bob collectively have come to the Main Street Starting Line eight times. To Rhonda, the dogs of Team Mishawum are not commodities; they are an extension of the family. This deep-rooted emotional connection bared its soul last season, right here in beautiful Fort Kent when their team successfully completed the CAC250.

When not exercising dogs, Rhonda is kept very busy with her new job as a Financial Initiatives Coordinator, cross training at the gym, and taking in the occasional road race.

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Shawn Linendoll

From: Fort Ann, NY Age: 46 Occupation: dog sled builder - kennel owner Web Address: http://www.linendollshappyhuskykennel.com Team Owner: Shawn Linendoll Lead Dogs: Mudslinger; 5 year old male Alaskan Blackie; 3 year old female Alaskan Duckie; 6 year old female Alaskan Daisy; 3 year old female Alaskan Clyde; 2 year old male Alaskan Bonnie; 2 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 60; 20 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 24 place 2007 Midnight Run 50; place 1998 Jim Lobdell (32mi); 2 place 2007

I run a kennel of about 36 Alaskans along with 2 Siberians. I enjoy seeing dogs that I raised and trained doing what they enjoy so much.

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Mike Paradis
From: Fort Kent, ME Age: 38 Occupation: Biathalon trail groomer & Green Earth Energy Team Owner: Kim Paradis Lead Dogs: Snickers; 6 year old female Alaskan Isaac; 5 year old male Alaskan Quasar; 3 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 19 place 2007 Can-Am 30; 12 place 2008 Can-Am 60; 23 place 2006

Mike lives with his wife Kim on the outskirts of Fort Kent with 16 dogs and 5 cats. In the summer he designs and installs alternative energy systems. In the winter he grooms trails for 10th Mountain Ski Center and trains dogs. Mike and Kim live off the grid and started using dogs to haul supplies in and out of the house. From there the team just kept growing. "I love the serenity and teamwork involved in dogsledding. With 2 teams and endless trails, my wife and I escape from it all by mushing."

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Ingrid Bower

From: Underhill, VT Age: 46 Occupation: librarian / farmer Team Owner: Ingrid Bower Lead Dogs: Doc; 11 year old male Siberian Mudd; 5 year old male Siberian Maja; 9 year old female Siberian Sterling; 7 year old male Siberian Zuki; 2 year old male Siberian Race Experience: Longest: Sandwich Notch 60; place 1998 Can-Am 30; 17 place 2005 Eden Moutain Open Mid Distance; 2 place 2007 Statford Nighthawks; 3 place 2007

Ingrid Bower fell in love with the Siberian Husky breed 31 years ago. Always fascinated with the Arctic and looking for a dog that could work. The Siberian fit perfectly. Ingrid began sprint racing in 1981 in the 6-dog Sportsman class and ran sprint until 1994 when she switched to mid-distance. her first race being the

Sandwich Notch 60. This focus continues, however, Ingrid also runs sled dog tours and the occasional sprint race depending upon snow conditions and what races aren't canceled.

Ingrid lives in Underhill, Vermont with her 31 dogs (including several rescued Border Collies). She greatly enjoys the unique bond she forms with each and everyone of her dogs. She appreciates working with many different personalities and abilities and bringing out the best in each to form a cohesive team.

Ingrid has also established an internship program for Animal Sciences students through the University of Vermont. This program allows students to get college credit while being introduced to the world of sled dogs. Over the years several of her interns have gone on to form their own teams. Ingrid would like to thank all of her interns over the years for helping her get back into the Can-Am 60.

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Alan Ricalton
From: Natural Bridge, NY Age: 42 Occupation: civil engineer Web Address: http://www.dogtec.com/kennel/GetKennel.asp?idAccount=142 Team Owner: Alan Ricalton Lead Dogs: Natalie; 6 year old female Alaskan Apache; 6 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Eagle Lake 100; 7 place 2008 Greenville 100; 5 place 2008 Can-Am 30's Can-Am 60's

Alan is a Civil Engineer with the New York State Department of Transportation. He and Sara have been married for 14 years. They have two children, Maria (11) and Darren (9). Allan's goal is to have a respectable finish in the Can-Am 250. Hobbies include hunting, 4-wheeling, and carpentry. He really enjoys the challenge of raising and training a competitive dog team and running a dog team on a clear, cold, moonlit night.

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Bill Wehseler
From: Tofte, MN Age: 49 Team Owner: Stoney Creek Kennels Lead Dogs: Seven; 1 year old female Alaskan Tosca; 4 year old female Alaskan Dutchess; 7 year old female Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: First Race; place

My wife and I own Stoney Creek Kennels. We have 45 dogs in our kennel. I have been helping train dogs in our kennel for many years and look forward to running in my first race. I am running the puppies for my wife's future team. Exit

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Debbie Knight
From: Grafton, ON Occupation: educator Team Owner: Debbie Knight Lead Dogs: Willow; female Alaskan Tiger Lily; female Alaskan Cookie; female Alaskan Forest; male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Can-Am 60; 12 place 2008 Eldorado (42mi); 11 place 2008 Kearney (2x45mi); 2008 Bancroft (45mi); 16 place 2008

I have been running dogs for a few years now and have moved from sprints to longer distance runs. After experiencing the amazing trails in the 60 last year, I just bad to see what the 250 is a11 about. I have done 300 and 210 mile runs and loved every minute of them, even when they were most challenging. A few 1000 mile runs are my goals for the dogs and I can't imagine a better way to spend time with my best friends.

I have been running mid-distance for the last 3 seasons. I ran a 300 mile training run last January in Seeney, Michigan and did a 210 mile run from Cochrane, Ontario to Moosonee, Ontario after running the 60 in Fort Kent.

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Raymond Belanger
From: Lowell, MA Age: 55 Occupation: auto repair service manager Team Owner: Raymond Belanger Lead Dogs: Lemmie; 6 year old female Siberian Taska; 3 year old female Siberian Larry; 2 year old male Siberian Race Experience: none;

This is my first year racing. I always said that if I started racing it would have to be the Can-Am Crown. This race is so well run, who would not want to participate? When the weather turns too warm to run you can find me fishing somewhere in New England, or talking dog to whoever will listen.

I have driven dogs for the past 5 years as a recreational musher and handled for my racing friends.

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Jillian Perron
From: New Vineyard, ME Age: 16 Team Owner: Jillian Perron Lead Dogs: Heiney; 4 year old male Alaskan Chewy; 4 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Farmington DESDC (45mi); 2 place 2005

I started racing in the one dog junior events with the Down East Sled Dog Club (DESDC) in 2002 and have gradually moved up to the 2 or 3 dog junior and most recently the 4 dog class. I also compete in the Downeast Dry Land Events including 4 dog cart, scooter & canicross. I have also competed in the dryland world championships in Italy (2002) & Spain (2003) in the canicross & scooter events. I have traveled as far as New York with the Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club (PSDC) to compete in dryland as well as on snow.

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Kathy MacKay
From: Parishville, NY Age: 50 Team Owner: MacKay/Mahoney Lead Dogs: Queen; female Alaskan Wallace; male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: CAC 30; 7 place 2008

"I was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. I attempted to educate myself at the University of Iowa but graduated with a degree in violin performance instead.

In 1994 I set out to walk the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. I had heel blisters for the first 300 miles. In Tennessee I met John Mahoney, and we walked the rest of the way to Mount Katahdin together. During this 2000+ mile hike we had the brilliant idea that going such a long distance would be easier if we had a dog team to carry the gear.

We have had sled dogs since 1996. The Can-Am Crown Race is the first race we ever entered. My husband raced in 1998, and of all the races we have been to since then we think of the Can-Am as the best.

In 2004 my husband and I went on a 6-week winter camping expedition in the Wyoming and Wind River Mountain ranges using our dog team and a 14-foot Tanana River freight sled. We crossed the Continental Divide and reached altitudes of 11,000 feet. He stood on one runner, and I stood on the other, for 462 miles."

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Scott Alexander
From: Sanbornton, NH Age: 36 Occupation: field service technician Web Address: http://www.kianasiberians.com Team Owner: Corina & Scott Alexander Lead Dogs: Valeska; 8 year old female Siberian Viktor; 5 year old male Siberian Race Experience: Longest: CAC 60; 23 place 2008 Odyssee Appalachienne (30mi); 9 place 2008 Stratford NightHawks (2x30mi); 2 place 2008

Scott and his wife Corina own a kennel of about 30 Siberian Huskies. They believe in maintaining the multipurpose Siberian Husky; performing in the show ring, obedience ring and on the trail. Scott's main leader Valeska is a show ring Champion with obedience and sledding titles. Scott started racing in 2001, and ran the Can-Am 60 last year.

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Robin Gratton

From: Val Des Lacs, QC Age: 36 Occupation: contractor Team Owner: Robin Gratton Lead Dogs: Brown Hound; 5 year old male hound Jenna; 2 year old female Alaskan Ziggy; 2 year old male Alaskan Morgan; 3 year old male Alaskan Race Experience: Longest: Eldorado (40mi); 7 place 2005 Odyssee Appalachienne (34mi); 3 place 2008 Newborro (25mi); 7 place 2008 CAC 30; 5 place 2007 Daaquam (18mi); 9 place 2007

This year I'll have a nice ride with the best of our 7 yearlings. I enjoy running in the Can-Am, so this year it will again be a big race for our kennel.

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Nick Van Drimmelen
From: Jericho Ctr., VT Age: 54 Occupation: vice president finance Team Owner: Van Drimmelen & Maple Lead Dogs: Ivan; 4 year old male Siberian Dawson; 2 year old male Siberian Eda; 2 year old female Siberian Race Experience: Longest: CAC 30; 26 place 2008 CAC 30; 29 place 2006 Stratford NightHawks (2x30mi); 10 place 2008

My wife and I run our 5 dogs and run them with their siblings owned by Rhonda Maple. We run purely for fun and for the sheer pleasure the dogs have when seeing the harness come out of the sled bag. I have run the Can-Am 30 three times, the last being in 2008, and I've run the Sandwich Notch three times in the last 10 years. We love the Can Am race as everybody makes it into a real carnival event, and the adopt a musher program is such a great way to meet new people and make friends. I work in Connecticut and commute back to Vermont every weekend. Running sleds in the winter and sailing in the summer is the best therapy one can find from the rigors of a professional career. Whenever we run races we dedicate the run to our first husky, Alex, who took us down a road we never imagined and to Alex's love of his life, Sooty, a Rhonda Maple husky.

I raced at North Stratford NH in 2008 -- two 30 mile races on the same weekend. I also raced at Sandwich Notch in 1999, 2002, and 2003. I have finished every race I've entered.

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Gino Roussel