Beginners Information
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 Who can Race?
When you think of Sled Dog Racing, visions of Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes in massive teams pulling sleds across vast expanses of snow naturally springs to mind. Many people have never considered that it would be possible to race in such a fashion, but surprisingly, this is a popular and growing sport right across Australia enveloping people from all walks of life along with a wide range of dog breeds that you may never have condidered suited to pull sleds.
Every winter, groups of die-hard dog lovers gather in the extreme cold at obscure hours of the mornings to watch the mist clear and the sun rise while racing along behind their best friend in what can only be described as a wonderful race back to nature. I have never, personally, found such an event that has allowed me to bond with my dogs on such an amazing level.
This is a sport for anyone and everyone, from the very young to the young at heart. |
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What do I need
Obviously, there is some equipment required if you want to race with your dog or dogs, but don't panic. If you feel that you want to come out with the group and give it all a go, then we have all the gear you need to have a shot.
Eventually, you will require
- A harness
- A gangline
- A neckline (if you have more than 1 dog)
- And of course, A Scooter
Harnesses and ganglines are available through the club once you have decided to become a regular runner.
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Some bits about Mushing
 There are a few terms that can help you when discussing Mushing.
- Musher : This term originates from the french word marche meaning march. This term was used to describe all those heading north to the Gold Rush regardless of how they got there, but has stuck with the individuals foolish enough to put their fate into the paws of insanely energetic dogs in order to get from place to place with a maximum of fuss.
- Gangline : Slightly elasticated cord that runs from the front of the sled / scooter and connects to the dogs' harnesses.
- Neckline : A small cord that connects adjacent running dogs' collars to help prevent them from drifting apart during a run. These cords are made to come apart to prevent injury in the event that the dogs go either side of a tree. This of course doesnt help the poor musher, but the dogs will be fine.
- Stakeout : A cable that can be staked to the ground, allowing the dogs to be clipped to various anchor points along its length. If you have more than one dog, this little device can be invaluable making it possible to keep them organised and tangle free while not running.
- Handler : A person who assists in the handling of dogs when preparing for or directly after a race. These people are essential as it can sometimes be remarkably difficult to handle a sled or scooter while attempting to get all dogs organised and even facing the right direction.
- Gee : An instruction for the dogs to turn Right.
- Haw : An instruction for the dogs to turn Left.
- Hike Up : Called to the dogs to go or run faster. Mush is more of a MOVIE TERM that is rarely used.
- No : I have recently seen this described as a term that most Sled Dogs translate to Go Ahead, do what you like.
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By Admin at 2005-11-11 12:12 | login to post comments
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