Here you will find behind the scenes snippets, vigenttes and occasional deep dive into my projects and commissions.
Unlike other dog races like Finnmarksløpet, a 1200km race across Northern Norway, or the slightly longer Iditarod race in Alaska, which primarily focus on endurance over multiple days and nights, Avannaata Qimussersua stands out as a celebration of speed and purity. Only the most basic sledge and handheld dog ropes are permitted, with ropes themselves being replaced by lengths of fishing net cord. The musher sits on a flat deck without any harness or safety aids, except for the obligatory GoPro hat-cam to document their remarkable journey.
The atmosphere in Ilulissat during the race’s build-up was filled with storytelling and a sense of competition. Regarded as a heroic rite of passage by teenagers, the race holds immense esteem, with a buzz and energy permeating bars and workplaces throughout the preceding week. Winning the race or simply being selected for the starting line is shrouded in folklore, accompanied by free beer and lifelong respect. To secure a spot in this prestigious event, years of dedicated training and exceptional skill are required, as one must form a deep bond with the dogs. Fortunately, Ilulissat boasts an official canine population of 2,500 dogs, a remarkable figure considering the town’s resident population of only 4,000 people.
In recent years, the Avannaata Qimussersua has also evolved into a powerful symbol of national pride, serving as a platform for indigenous peoples to assert their unique connection to their territory and cultural heritage amidst the lingering effects of colonialism.
The sight of 36 teams launching from the start line was breathtaking—more like a chaotic chase reminiscent of an aerial scene from a ‘Frozen’ Mad Max: Fury Road. Mushers had to aim for a narrow gap in the mountain valley entrance while ensuring their dogs didn’t get tangled with another Musher’s dogs. Sure, grit and skill were essential, but luck also played a role. Once the teams ventured out of the spectators’ field of view into the wilderness, random dogs returned like homing pigeons after their Musher had released them before they were injured or worse, dragged under a sledge.
The temperature was a comfortable -19°C without any wind, with occasional clouds blocking the sun. Ideal conditions to witness the spectacular return of the competitors and a mesmerising celebratory ritual.
It took approximately an hour for the Mushers to complete the 40km route. During that time, and with the race completely out of sight, the audience bought snacks, played in the snow, and generally relaxed. Various spotters with scopes and binoculars kept a vigilant eye, while locals prepared their drones to document the final few kilometres across the frozen plane and reach the finish line.
When the dogs are running at full speed, they won’t stop by their own will. Additionally, due to the lack of an effective brake on the sledge (remember, this is bare-bones racing), an alternative method is employed to bring the dogs to a halt. Alongside locals throwing drones into the air to film the final minutes of racing, Mushers have their team members cover the ground over the finish with raw meat. One audience member shared that without that enticing incentive, the dogs simply wouldn’t stop and would end up running endlessly into town!
And so, a spectacular ritual unfolded each time a Musher crossed the finish line. A team member would spot their Musher with binoculars, another team member would roll out a massive tub of raw meat and spread it with precision - aiming the meat directly into the path of their incoming dog pack. Impressive, yes, but the best part was yet to come.
Within milliseconds of the dogs stopping to inhale the meat, other team members, family, and supporters close to each Musher would run around the sledge. A race official would hand the Musher the national flag and medal, and the sledge and Musher would be lifted above their heads. Cheering, hype, laughter, and tears would prevail each time. Precise choreography completed in under a minute - Musher after Musher. Spotter, meat thrower, race official, sledge lift, repeat.
Below is Avannaata Qimussersua 2024 race winner Thomas Thygesen from Saattu, followed by many of his competitors finishing the race. Click an image to enlarge. You can also explore a lot of the town, surrounding land, and sea scapes by viewing my gallery, Avannaata’s Analogous Light.