One more loop around the Porcupine dogsled race route, as we look at Timmins history.
The Porcupine race was a big event between 1916 and 1930, sometimes drawing 3,000 spectators at the start line when the population was only about 5,000.
Timmins Museum director-curator Karen Bachmann says any four-dog team from north of he CPR line could enter. And as she recaps the rules, she notes that a $5.00 entry fee was refunded when the team showed up.
“So each team will present itself at the starting point, one minute before its allotted starting time,” Bachmann reads. “If not ready, it will take last place and the next man will start. No team will consist of more than four dogs. Each team was to finish with the same outfit they started with. No switching your dogs in the back bush.”
There was also provision to ensure the dogs were well cared for.
“You would be disqualified following any of these violations: Kicking or striking the dogs with the butt of a whip; any unnecessary cruelty; or the administration of any drugs or stimulants to your dogs.”