A Handler's Perspective
For those of you who saw our last Newsletter and are a bit more familiar with dog mushing/racing, I can now add a little perspective to the event as this is now the third race I've handled (assisted) in.
It has often been said that if one wants to be the best possible in something, one needs to be fully committed to it. It has also been said that one could be committed for doing what they do! In the Dog Mushing world, I find it's a combination of the two. The time and dedication required to compete in this true Northwoods sport is, to me, akin to what any top athlete does to compete in a major sport. The training is continual and the preparation, critical, not to mention dealing with the sometimes brutal winter elements during a race season.
This year's 130 mile Wolf Track Classic, regardless of the final results, was a big success for everyone. There where no bad incidents for either mushers or dogs and, unlike last year's race, the weather couldn't have been much better.
On the longer races there is mandatory rest time for mushers and dog teams. This race required a total of 8 hours of rest divided between three checkpoints. Veterinarians were on hand throughout the race to make sure the health and well being of the dogs was maintained. For any good musher, this is the basic foundation of a good team.
As a handler, I was responsible for moving dogs to and from the transport vehicle at the race start, finish and at checkpoints. I drove the support vehicle from checkpoint to checkpoint, and assisted in feeding, watering and bedding the dogs at rest stops. Once the musher gets back on the trail, close attention had to be paid to organizing equipment and preparing for the next checkpoint.
Handling for a dog sled race certainly has its emotional highs and lows. From the near silence of a long layover, with teams resting quietly on beds of straw under crystal clear winter skies at 2 in the morning, to the near fever pitch and excitement displayed by the dogs at race start, there are few,if any things in our summer canoe trip world that compare.
Much the same as a spectator at a golf tournament, it is impossible for one person to view an entire race. Going to the start, finish and various recommended viewing spots along the course, however, will give one a unique opportunity to partake in the fascinating world of Sled Dog Racing...a true "Race of the North". - Dave
For more information on this year's WolfTrack Classic, go to www.wolftrackclassic.com
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PERMIT INFORMATION
PERMIT INFORMATION Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The lottery is over we can now reserve your permits directly.
Quetico Park Permits are issued on a first come first served basis exactly 5 months to the day before your desired start day. This year the park will open May 20th, 2011. Our Crew will be happy to help you obtain your permits at no extra cost to you. |
UPCOMING DATES
Mark the following dates on your calander: Canoeing Shows:
Canoecopia in Madison, WI. March 11th - 13th
Other Important Dates:
Minnesota Fishing Opener, May 14th
Ontario Walleye Opener, May 21st
Quetico Park Opens, May 20th
(contact us for pre-season Quetico trip information)
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Because it was so popular last month we are extending our offer for a couple more weeks.
We are offering a day of FREE CANOE RENTAL when you rent a canoe for 5 days. A 6th day at no charge when you rent for 5 days.
*Offer applies to regular rates only. Does not apply to youth groups rates.
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