No Icebreaker a heartbreaker

COEUR d’ALENE — A fun run that benefits a sanctuary for special-needs dogs has been canceled.

And that's been an emotional and financial heartache for Cristene Justus, founder of the Double J. Dog Ranch in Hauser Lake.

"Our entire team is devastated," she said Monday.

The Hauser Lake 5K/10K Icebreaker set for Sunday was on course to have its largest field, with more than 750 adults and kids expected to run and walk the scenic courses.

The event was expected to raise around $15,000 to $20,000, money that gives challenged canines a chance at a better life.

But it won't happen — for an unexpected reason: No parking.

Due to snowy, muddy conditions on the field next to the Hauser Lake Fire & Rescue on Hauser Lake Road, Justus recently learned that vehicles can't be parked there, as has been allowed years past.

Following frantic phone calls trying to find parking alternatives, like on the side of the road, near the boat launch or even using shuttles, Justus and crew had to surrender.

"We didn’t have a choice," she said. "It's nobody's fault. We have no place to put the cars."

It has created monetary problems for Double J Dog Ranch, a nonprofit that opened in 2009 on Justus' 50 acre property at Hauser Lake.

Double J takes in and also finds homes for dogs that are blind, deaf, crippled or even facing cancer.

Justus already invested more than $10,000 in the Icebreaker, including for permits, shirts, medals and course signage.

Justus has hundreds of shirts, which she is stuck with unless she can sell them.

Some agencies have agreed to reimburse Justus, and she is still contacting others.

"We might be able to cover expenses," she said.

Justus is contacting race sponsors to see if they want their money back, as well. Some have said she can keep it.

And while many participants have opted to consider their race fee a donation, said it could be deferred to next year or will run the virtual Icebreaker, many have also asked for a refund.

"Times are tough. I get it," she said.

Not all are understanding that the race was canceled or that refunds take time.

"Some have been mad," Justus said.

She said in the previous years the race has benefitted Double J, it's been held the first Sunday in April and there haven't been problems. But plans are to push it to the third weekend of April next year.

More than 700 people registered for last year's Icebreaker, and this year it was on course to set a participation record.

"We’ve grown every year," Justus said.

Those who want to support Double J Dog Ranch can register online for the virtual Icebreaker or in-person from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Fleet Feet, 511 Sherman Ave. That includes an Icebreaker shirt. A few Double J dogs will be there, too.

Justus said the loss of funds from the race hurts. In prior years it has raised in the $15,000 range.

"It will definitely have an impact," she said.

She noted that last week alone, Double J ran into about $6,000 in medical and dental bills for its dogs.

Putting on the race takes time, effort and money, as expenses top $15,000.

Justus said they begin securing permits, insurance and sponsors about six months before race day. Then, they have to pay for shirts, medals and signs.

It's worth it, Justus said, because everyone has fun and it's for the dogs.

The day includes music, food and awards with a beautiful lake as the backdrop.

"Our whole team puts this together," she said. "It's such a fun event."

To cancel it, Justus said, is "heartbreaking."

But they'll be back.

"We will roll with it," she said. "That's all we can do."