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Snowgum weaving
The snow levels are steadily rising as the countdown begins for
the 2003 Pedigree Dog Sledge Challenge, Australia's only sled dog
race on snow, which is being held over the weekend of 9-10 August
at Dinner Plain, 8km east of Mt Hotham.
This annual event attracts the finest sled dog teams from all over
Australia, even as far away as Perth and Tasmania. 68 teams, a total
of 274 dogs, will strive to achieve their fastest times as they
dodge and weave their way through Dinner Plain's stunning terrain
and snow gums.
Musher relationship essential
Pitting their athleticism and courage against each other and against
the combined elements of difficult terrain, possible blizzards,
snow, ice and fog, teams will set out from the Village at 9am each
day. "More than any other race, it tests the depth of the relationship
between the Musher and their dogs," said race organiser, Rob Stevens.
"In this particular environment one is totally dependent on their
dogs, particularly their lead dog/s, they need to be both fast and
responsive to voice commands, whilst also guiding the team out of
potential danger."
Individual weight pullling
One of the weekend attractions will be the thrilling weight-pull,
which is being held on Saturday afternoon. A single dog will compete
by pulling a freight sled over distances of 8-10 meters in the fastest
times.
The Pedigree Sled Dog Challenge is only open to experienced Mushers,
who must have competed in at least 3 dirt track races and be over
15 years of age. The most common breeds of dogs raced are Siberian
Huskies, which are quick on their feet, and Alaskan Malamutes, which
are renowned for their endurance, however other breeds have been
known to compete.
[Source: Ski.com.au]
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