A scene from the 2008 dryland race. |
Dirty Dog Dryland races set for this weekend here Nov. 6, 2009 The fourth annual Dirty Dog Dryland Derby, a rather unusual event that pits dogs more accustomed to racing over snow-packed routes to traveling over trails deep in fall foliage, returns to the Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan Boy Scout Camp near Pearson this weekend.
Races start at 9 a.m. both days.
Sponsored by the Wisconsin Trailblazers Sled Dog Club, organizers hope to draw over 100 mushers from across the Midwest participating in multiple events.
“Many mushers have jumped on the band wagon for dryland racing these last few years,” Beth Castaldi of Elton explained. “The differences seen in equipment used since the first year has changed dramatically. High tech racing rigs are being used now instead of homemade contraptions. Also we have seen an increase in participants using high end mountain bikes. Training schedules have been adjusted to be sure the teams are in condition for an early season event and the mushers are beginning their own fitness programs to be ready as well.”
Classes include:
—Canicross – running with your dog helping to move you along. The runner has a specialized belt around their waist with a line to the dog’s harness. The dog runs in front of the runner pulling him/her. The belt allows for hands free running. The trick is to train the dog to pull with just enough force to help the runner move forward and not topple them over.
—Bikejoring – dogs pulling their driver on bikes. Includes 1-dog class and 2-dog class – Dogs are harnessed with lines to the bike. The dog(s) pull while the driver pedals!! Helmets are required.
—Scootering – dogs pulling their driver on two wheeled scooters. Includes 1-dog class and 2-dog class – Dogs are harnessed with lines to the scooter. The dog(s) pull while the driver kicks and/or runs to help move the scooter ahead. You can use a bike with chain removed or disengaged. Helmets are required.
—Carting – team of dogs pulling their driver riding on a light weight cart. Includes 4-dog class and 6-dog class – Same as sled racing except a three or four wheeled cart replaces the sled. Helmets, locking break and snub line required.
“These events require a trusting bond and teamwork between the drivers and their canine athletes,” Castaldi said. “Much training as well as physical conditioning is required to develop a winning team. And sometimes a little bit a good luck helps, too!! Spectators will see happy, exuberant dogs lunging in their lines eager to hit the trail.”
The length of the trail used will vary depending on the class. Estimated mileages are canicross – 1 1⁄2 miles, 1-dog scootering and bikejoring -1 1⁄2 miles, 2-dog scootering and bikejoring - 2 1/2 miles, 4-dog and 6-dog carting - 2 1⁄2 miles.
A heat for each class will be run both Saturday and Sunday. Placement for the race is determined by combining both days times with, of course, the teams running in the shortest time winning. Teams will leave the starting chute at pre-determined intervals probably one or two minutes apart.
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