The event determines the order in which the teams will leave the chute.

“This is a wonderful weekend of racing and a wonderful weekend of camaraderie with a 30-year history,” master of ceremonies, Walt Lindela said.

The first bib for the U.P. 200 went to Joshua McNeal of Kasilof, Alaska, which means his team will start first in tonight’s race.

“This is kind of a grand finale for the last three weeks on the road,” McNeal said.

Talia Martens of Brule, Wisconsin, receives the first bib of the Midnight Run from Darlene Walch, president of the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association, during the U.P. 200 Pre-race Banquet and Bib Draw Thursday night at the Holiday Inn in Marquette. The event determines the order they will leave the chute. (Journal photo by Corey Kelly)

This is McNeal’s third race of the season and first time competing in the U.P. 200.

The first bib for the Midnight Run went to Talia Martens of Brule, Wisconsin.

“This is my first year at the Midnight Run, so it’s exciting,” Martens said.

The U.P. 200 start is at 7 tonight, and the Midnight Run begins at about 8 p.m. Both races begin in front of The Mining Journal on Washington Street in Marquette.

Corey Kelly can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 243. Her email address is ckelly@miningjournal.net.