Europe’s Toughest Endurance Race - A Dogsled Trek Across Norway The Finnmarksløpet in Norway is the longest and toughest dogsled race in Europe. Among this year’s competitors are Ben Voigt from Germany and 20-year-old native Hanna Lyrek. It’s a race that is always full of surprises and setbacks. Participants face freezing temperatures, stormy weather and a lack of sleep. The Finnmarksløpet is to the Norwegians what the Tour de France is to the French, and it’s broadcast live on TV. Once they start out, the competitors or "mushers” only have their Alaskan huskies for company, and have to decide when to take breaks. Each team can have up to 14 dogs, with at least six having to make it to the finish. Given the tough conditions, Ben Voigt trains with his pack every day from August through late May. The German started mushing ten years ago after moving to Norway. He and his wife have 35 dogs in total at their home in Langfjordbotn.