Air Greenland and Kalaallit Nunaanni Qimussertartut Kattuffiat (KNQK) have signed a memorandum of understanding regarding a multi-year partnership aimed at ensuring the continuation of the traditional dog sled races.

Air Greenland has been the main sponsor of the dog sled race for a number of years, as the dog sled is a central part of Greenland’s cultural heritage. The tradition is under pressure due to the modernisation of hunting and fishing, as well as climate change, which is affecting the formation of ice in the fjords. Air Greenland wishes to continue contributing to the preservation of the dog sledding tradition, promoting knowledge-sharing across regions and generations, and supporting efforts to preserve the Greenlandic sled dog.

The aim of the letter of intent is to create a stronger framework for the planning and implementation of the annual race in 2027–2029. The collaboration includes the development of transport and logistics solutions for both dogs and participants, as well as travel vouchers for competitions and for prizes for the dog sled drivers and the finest dogs. 

The parties met last week at Air Greenland’s head office to sign the agreement. There, Commercial Director Chris Shern emphasised the importance of early coordination and the ongoing development of the partnership:

During the meeting, the parties also discussed the possibility of raising awareness of the race – both nationally and internationally – in order to attract more people, not just to the dog sled race itself, but equally to experience the unique culture and camaraderie throughout the event, which typically lasts a couple of days. 

The Chairman of KNQK, Mikkel Jeremiassen, expressed great delight that there is now a clear framework and structure for future cooperation.  

- It is crucial for us to have strong partners, and we have that in Air Greenland, who understand the significant logistical challenge and the value of developing the dog sled race. We are very grateful for the support we have already received and look forward to a strengthened dialogue on concrete measures that can further raise awareness of the dog sled race, says Mikkel Jeremiassen.

Planning for the logistics surrounding the staging of the national dog sled race, Avannaata Qimussersui, on 2 April 2027, has now begun. KNQK has already informed the charter department of the alternative towns to which the race may need to be moved should it prove impossible to hold the race in Qeqertarsuaq due to a lack of snow or poor ice conditions.