Skijoring…what is it and why do it??
Have some winter fun skijoring!!
Skijoring is a winter sport and is gaining popularity. Skijoring is, according to a recent MSNBC article, “being hauled along snowy trails by sled dogs while gliding along on a pair of slim Nordic
skis”. Those who participate in this sport say it is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors in the winter. Peter Franke, a 46 year old former marathon runner tried the sport when he was in Germany eight years ago and continues to enjoy the sport today. Franke says he used to have his dog run with him as a companion when training for the marathons, and now racing with the dogs in various skijoring competitions is just as fun. In fact, Franke recently finished a 12 mile run on a trail that was used for the Will Cowie Memorial Fun Run Sled Dog Race. Franke says he is pulled by only 2 large dogs as opposed to a large team of dogs.
The Fun Run, as it is known is hosted by the Patriot Siberian Husky Rescue Club. Siberians are an excellent breed for this type of sport because they have the strength and endurance for this type of activity. Also, since it is a winter sport, the weather is usually very cold, but huskys are the type of dog that love the cold and the winter. This isn’t the type of sport that is only practiced in a place like Alaska. In fact the article which speaks of skijoring and the many people who enjoy the sport are from the New England area. Franke is from Durhanm, NH. Jack Alexander, a novice driver of a 4 dog team is 60 years old and lives in Massachusetts. If you have a dog that loves this type of sport, it could be the type of activity for the whole family to enjoy!!
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