World Premier CRAZY COLD BEAUTIFUL

WORLD PREMIER CRAZY COLD BEAUTIFUL

the John Beargrease Song Cycle

"Without Those Dogs"

"Without Those Dogs" is the result of spending times scrolling through old newspaper articles on microfilm.  The stories from the 1800s often began with descriptions of different sleds.  Then, pretty quickly the focus would shift to the dogs and the telling of a harrowing journey that ended up having a happy ending because of the dogs, their stamina or sense of direction ability to ascertain dangerous conditions, desire to please, "generosity of spirit."  In this way these tales are like children's stories and the life lessons they often reveal.  This video features students from Hermantown Elementary School , and their director, Jerry Kaldor.

"The Most Important Thing"

This song is from an interview conducted by Mark Ostazeski for this blog during the 2015 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon with Arleigh Jorgenson.  

"John was My Best Friend"

 

This song is a description of John Beargrease as a young man taken from several accounts and informed by John Beargrease, Legend of Minnesota's North Shore, by Daniel Lancaster.

Note:  There are 17 songs in this song cycle.  Recordings were made at the performances at Bethlehem Lutheran Church and Sacred Heart Music Center on February 5-6.  

In addition, these songs will be recorded in studio and will hopefully be available for the public in the future.

Beckie Hacker - Red Lantern Award

Beckie Hacker - Finishes 

A large crowd of fans cheer for Beckie Hacker as she manages her team to a 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon finish, with an injured shoulder, earning a red lantern.

Beckie's Red Lantern Award

Beckie Hacker finishes the 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, earning the red lantern award.  She demonstrates grit and determination as she runs over half the race with an injured shoulder.

Carl Routhier - 7th Place

Carl Routhier - 7th Place

Carl comes in with six dogs, happy to have competed in the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.  He is quick to give credit to his handlers who "did all the work."

Carl Routhier - Average Man?

Carl Routhier talks to the Race Marshal about the toughest section of the 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon trail.  Claiming to be an average man, with an average team, Carl has accomplished something not a lot of people have- the BEARGREASE!

Erin Altemus - 6th Place

Erin Altemus - 6th Place

Erin Altemus arrives in 6th Place in the 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.  Erin and Colleen Wallin had been close for much of the race.  There are many factors that go into finishing and/or winning.  It is clear to me that they are both winners!

Colleen Wallin - 5th Place

Colleen Wallin - 5th Place

Colleen Wallin, a crowd favorite, arrives 5th, with her amazing team.  My impression of of Colleen is being positive and happy.  She takes time to greet, and thank all those around her.  See a couple surprises pulled out of from her sled bag. 

Appreciating Your Greatest Supporter

Colleen and Ward Wallin share a deep appreciation for one another after working hard to prepare and run the 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.

Thanking the Team

Colleen and Ward  takes the time to show her dogs that she cares and appreciates each of them.  Mushers and their dogs share a bond.  We see it after accomplishing so much together.

A Child's Commentary

A child is heard giving a commentary as  Ward Wallin give their dogs attention at the finish line of the 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.

Frozen Fish Treats

Colleen and Ward Wallin give their dogs a special treat at the end of each race.  

Keith Aili - 4th Place

Keith Aili - 4th Place

Ryan Anderson - 3rd Place

Ryan Anderson - 3rd Place

Ryan Anderson arrives in 3rd place in the 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.