Welcome to the Canadian Challenge Sled Dog Race.
10 Dog, 17th Feb, 10:00, Riese Park    8/6 Dog, 18th Feb, 11:00, Weyakwin
MUSHERS 2026
GARRICK SCHMIDT
Mushers Bio
Location
Wawota, Saskatchewan
Occupation
Land-Based Educator, Program Manager, Musher
Kennel name
Eagle Ridge Sled Dog Kennel
Interests/Hobbies
Family time, Harvesting for our family and community, Trapping, Camping (all seasons, but winter is my most favourite with the dogs!)
Number of years mushing
7+
Experience/Races
Canadian Challenge 2022 (8 dog 100 mile), 2023 (10 dog 200 mile (most improved vet award), 2024 (10 dog 200 mile), 2025 (10 dog 200 mile qualifier, Tom Charles winner, Spirit of the North, Race winner, Vet award, ALSO MOST STITCHES RECEIVED)
UNDER DOG 100 2024 (best dog care award).
Registered for 2026 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon 300 miler before the challenge.
DAVID RICHÉ
Mushers Bio
Location
Saint Pierre & Miquelon, France
Occupation
Business manager
Kennel name
Kennel SPM David Riché
Interests/Hobbies
Cinéma, Running, fitness
Number of years mushing
8
Experience/Races
2021: 1ere place sprint French championship Trophy Manato/2022:4e trophy flexadin Grande Odyssée, 4e Vercors Quest 150k/ 2024: 3e Sedivakuv Long distance 300k/ finisher Boréal 150k
MARY ENGLAND
Mushers Bio
Location
Sioux Lookout, ON. Canada
Occupation
Health care
Kennel name
On The Land Sled Dogs
Interests/Hobbies
I mostly enjoy pretty ordinary, quiet activities when not doing things with the dogs - runs, bike rides, bush walks, trying my best to learn the odd new skill (my dog houses are remain standing albeit crookedly, the stone wall I'm building is a slow work in progress). As a family we try to get out on the land as much as possible. As the kids get older, their interests invariably shape ours and I'm enjoying their sports and travels we can do as a family.
Number of years mushing
7
Experience/Races
Canadian Challenge 300, 200 | Caledonian Sled Dog Challenge 200 | Beargrease 300, 120
JESSE TERRY
Mushers Bio
Location
Sioux Lookout, ON. Canada
Occupation
Sled builder and musher
Kennel name
On The Land Sled Dogs
Interests/Hobbies
Family time, mushing, biking, canoeing and back scratches from my wife.
Number of years mushing
30+
Experience/Races
Canadian Challenge 300, Caledonia 200, Can-Am 250, Beargrease Marathon, Yukon Quest 400
DAN KIRKUP
Mushers Bio
Location
Saskatoon, Sask
Occupation
Glass Fabricator
Kennel name
Battle River Kennel
Interests/Hobbies
Dog sledding is where I face the cold head-on alongside my team. After earning 2nd place in last year’s Canadian Challenge, I’m back chasing tougher trails, harsher winds, and the kind of challenges that build resilience in both dogs and musher. Beyond the race, I roam deep into the wilderness, sometimes hunting, always exploring—whether it’s following fresh tracks through untouched snow, crossing silent frozen lakes under the northern lights, or chasing the thrill of adventures that few ever witness.
Number of years mushing
4
Experience/Races
Canadian Challenge 2025 & 2024, Caledonia Classic 2025, Underdog 2024 and Torch River Run 2023 & 2024 & 2025
SHELLIE TOROK
Mushers Bio
Location
Prince George, BC
Occupation
On paper, I'm a registered nurse, but in reality, I am a professional juggler of a life filled with love. I'm a mom, wife, farmer, friend and a musher-all different ways I get to live a big, full life and do it with a lot of heart
Kennel name
Silver Lining Sled Dogs
Interests/Hobbies
When I'm not working you will find me adventuring with my favorite people, out hunting for cool rocks, trying to catch a big fish, or crafting something fun. I love my people, kiddos, doggos, cool weather, and many hours on a small trail system connecting with my team.
Number of years mushing
I started in 2011 or 2012, mainly recreational and sprint. This will be my third year running mid distance
Experience/Races
I've participated in the Caledonia Classic, Canadian Challenge, Underdog, Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run, and various sprint races in BC and Alberta.
ROGER DALKE
Mushers Bio
Location
Meeting Creek, AB. Canada
Occupation
Retired
Kennel name
Tad Bezrk
Interests/Hobbies
Ultra marathons, Dog harness sports, Automotive fabrication, Gardening.
Number of years mushing
5
Experience/Races
Mushing for 5 years as a recreational musher. No race experience yet!
JANE DEVLIN
Mushers Bio
Location
Bend, ORegon. United States
Occupation
Dog Trainer
Kennel name
Snowmouse
Interests/Hobbies
Dog powered sports, dog agility, cross country skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, hiking, music
Number of years mushing
19
Experience/Races
Rocky Mountain Triple Crown100s, Pedigree Stage Stop 8 dog, GoldRush Mail Run, Quesnel BC
GALLERY 2025
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