The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, already delayed by more than a month, will begin Sunday north of Two Harbors at what has traditionally been the race’s first checkpoint. “Weather always plays a role in sled dog race and unfortunately the recent warm temperatures have made conditions at our original start line unsuitable for the race,

The annual race, which begins in Duluth and runs more than 300 miles, is a qualifier for the world-famous Iditarod and attracts some of the world's top mushers.

Organizers of the John Beargrease Dog Marathon in northeastern Minnesota say the race's starting location is being moved due to melting snow.

Warm temperatures and a dwindling snowpack have forced organizers of this year’s John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon in northeast Minnesota to move the starting location north of Two Harbors instead of near Duluth.