Local dog sled racers from Igloolik, Nunavut, are getting ready for the annual Nunavut Quest after the official participant list was released this week. The 500-kilometre race is set to begin on April 7, 2026, with teams traveling from Igloolik to Mittimatalik. Registration for the event officially closed on March 24, 2026, and the list of local participants was shared through the Igloolik-miut community group.
The race, also known as Pangaggujjiniq, usually takes about one week for participants to complete. Each team must use between eight and 12 traditional Inuit sled dogs, which are harnessed in a fan shape. This event was first held in 1999 to celebrate the creation of Nunavut and to help keep the tradition of dog sled travel alive in the region.
According to the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, the organization provides $100,000 every year to support the race. This funding helps cover the costs and provides prize money for the top finishers, including $20,000 for the first-place winner. Other prizes include $15,000 for second place and $10,000 for third place.
The Nunavut Quest was created to help bring back dog sledding culture after it was nearly lost during the mid-20th century. Today, the race is a major community event that allows Elders to pass down their skills to younger generations. Once the racers reach the finish line, the local community will host a week of celebrations with singing and dancing.
