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La Grande Odyssée Royal Canin 2026 Opens in Avoriaz With Night Prologue

Veterinary staff describe the dogs’ pre-start frenzy as a natural “will to go.”

Overview

  • Saturday’s prologue unfolded in the heart of Avoriaz after official musher presentations at the public village in the car‑free, Flocon Vert–certified resort.
  • The first stage is scheduled for Sunday with a start in central Avoriaz between 10:00 and 11:00, a passage at Super Morzine around 10:40–11:20, and viewing at Montriond (Les Lindarets) from roughly 11:20 to 12:30.
  • The 22nd edition runs through January 22 with about 380 kilometers of racing, more than 500 dogs, 50 mushers, and stages that can climb up to 2,000 meters.
  • Organizers and the medical lead say the loud barking at the line reflects the dogs’ instinct to run, which quiets once teams are underway.
  • Some competitors travel with larger pools than they race, with one musher bringing 17 dogs while only six per team took part in the 2.5‑kilometer prologue.