Neither snow nor rain nor gloom of night — nor COVID-19 — could stay the couriers of the Gold Rush Sled Dog Mail Run.
The run, which delivers the only mail moved by sled dogs in North America, was completed on Jan. 23, as three teams of mushers and their dogs made the trip to Barkerville.
The teams were carrying special envelopes, which will enter into regular Canada Post circulation, to be delivered around the world.
The usual ceremony and celebrations related to the mail run were put on hold in their 29th year, as COVID-19 health restrictions prevented most of them. No spectators were allowed, and only three teams made the trip, delivering some of the sold envelopes.
Organizers arn’t giving up on a proper celebration in 2021.
“We are now planning a second Mail Run as we know that many people were unable to pick up their envelopes before the cut-off and we had to comply with provincial health orders which presented us with challenges as well,” an update on the run’s website reads. “We will have more details soon and are restocking our postal outlets. The exact dates and details will depend on what restrictions are in place in February.”
Envelopes must be placed in a designed post box at the Quesnel Post Office after they are purchased, addressed and stamped.
READ MORE: Sled dog mail run artist inspired by 2020 event
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The final destination for the teams was the Barkerville Post Office. From there, letters will enter regular Canada Post circulation. (Tammy Raynor - Submitted Photo)
A team of dogs tears through the trails. (Tammy Raynor - Submitted Photo)
Three teams of mushers and sled dogs delivered envelopes into Canada Post circulation on Saturday, Jan. 23 as part of the Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run. The teams were accompanied by snowmobiles, who kept the trail safe and clear. (Tammy Raynor - Submitted Photo)
