The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, today provided the following statement on the cancellation of Cain’s Quest 2023.

“The decision announced by the Cain’s Quest board of directors and organizing committee today to cancel the race was undoubtedly a difficult one to make. In the interest of safety of the competitors, their support crews, race officials, checkpoint personnel and other volunteers, as well as a thorough review of the weather conditions today and into the coming days, this was certainly the best and most responsible decision for all concerned.

Praise goes to the competitors for taking on the enormous challenge of participating in the longest and most challenging snowmobile race in the world. From the time you sped across Tanya Lake in Labrador City on Saturday, to your efforts to battle the elements caused by a drastic turn in the weather, all of Labrador and beyond watched with great interest and cheered you on. You did not disappoint.

To the community volunteers who opened your homes and your hearts to the racers, and came to their aid under such trying circumstances, thank you for demonstrating your compassion and your friendly, caring nature. To the event sponsors for your support and to the board of directors and organizing committee, your efforts were not in vain. Your preparation and attention to detail was second-to-none.

While this is a disappointing setback, safety cannot be compromised, especially when it involves a mid-winter venture to the four corners of the Big Land. Cain’s Quest will rise again, and we will be there again to support the race.”

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