HAM Radio Operators Crucial for UP200 Sled Dog Race Communications

Volunteers use powerful radio equipment to provide vital race updates and emergency support across remote U.P. trails.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As mushers compete in the 228-mile UP200 sled dog race through Michigan's Upper Peninsula, a team of around 60 HAM radio operators play a crucial role in maintaining communications and safety across the remote trail network. Using powerful radio equipment that can reach repeaters and cover areas with poor cell service, the volunteers monitor road crossings, track racer locations, and provide emergency support if needed.

Why it matters

The UP200 is a highly competitive sled dog race that takes place across the rural and rugged terrain of the Upper Peninsula. Reliable communications are essential for coordinating the race, tracking the mushers' progress, and responding quickly to any emergencies or issues that arise along the trail. The HAM radio operators provide a vital communications backbone that helps make the race possible.

The details

About 60 HAM radio operators, such as Steve Gingras, monitor around 15 road crossings across the UP200 race route. Their powerful radio equipment can reach repeaters and broadcast information over a wider area than handheld radios, allowing them to relay real-time updates on the race's progress to the logistics center in Marquette. The operators work closely with the race organizers to forecast the teams' locations and position volunteers at key points along the trail before the mushers arrive.

  • The UP200 sled dog race takes place every February in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
  • The 2026 UP200 race was held on February 14, 2026.

The players

Steve Gingras

A HAM radio operator who monitors road crossings and relays information during the UP200 race.

Paul Racine

The HAM Operators Coordinator for the UP200 race, responsible for organizing the volunteer communications team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That is a big radio, much more powerful than my handheld radio and rebroadcas that to a larger area, so you can still hear what's going on and stay up-to-date with the race and what's happening.”

— Steve Gingras, HAM Radio Operator (uppermichiganssource.com)

“Calculate and forecast where the teams are going to be along the trail, so that we can get volunteers in position in time before the teams arrive.”

— Paul Racine, HAM Operators Coordinator (uppermichiganssource.com)

“In the past, teams have come up to me and thanked us for being out there by providing that communication, so that they can remain safe on the trail.”

— Paul Racine, HAM Operators Coordinator (uppermichiganssource.com)

What’s next

The 2027 UP200 sled dog race is scheduled to take place on February 13, 2027, and the HAM radio operators will once again play a crucial role in ensuring the event's success and safety.

The takeaway

The dedicated HAM radio operators who volunteer their time and equipment for the UP200 sled dog race demonstrate the power of community-driven communications technology. Their efforts help make this challenging winter event possible, showcasing the ongoing importance of reliable, localized communication networks even in the age of smartphones.