A look back - 20 years since the first Ivakkak race

It’s been 20 years since the first edition of Ivakkak was held. March 28, 2001, was a special day in Umiujaq, a day where mushers from across Nunavik would gather and prepare to depart on an event that would become a Nunavik tradition. With the departure of the first teams only seconds away, the late Robbie Tookalook, Umiujaq mayor and Makivik board member at the time, could be seen waving his Ivakkak flag high up in the bright blue sky, waiting eagerly along with his fellow Umiujaqmiut for the teams to hit the trail. “3, 2, 1,” and the teams were off! And, as the saying goes, the rest is history.
In commemoration of the Ivakkak races, we put the following video together to remember the past 20 years. It gives us a chance to look back at all of those who have participated in this special event, either as mushers, support staff, or spectators.
We would also like to use this opportunity to thank those that have worked with us throughout the years to make Ivakkak possible. From the support staff who play a vital role in ensuring that the races are conducted in a safe and efficient manner, to the Makivik board for their continued support in keeping the race alive, and to all the sponsors who have made contributions to Ivakkak throughout all the years:

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I hate that song