Big chill in Cairngorms will do nicely for sleddogs
One thousand ruff and ready huskies and 250 mushers will descend upon Glenmore this weekend for the 36 Aviemore Sled Dog Rally.
The annual event, which is set to attract more than 3,000 spectators, will take place over forest trails that weave around Loch Morlich at the foot of the Cairngorms.
Organised by the Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain, in conjunction with Forestry Commission Scotland, competitors from all over the UK will be on the start line ready to race for glory.
Mark Tate, chief executive of Cairngorm Business Partnership said: “This is a fabulous event and one that attracts people from far and wide to compete and spectate.
“It is wonderful to see these beautiful, intelligent dogs work their way around the trails and makes for a superb day out for the family.
“The Cairngorms National Park is full of adventure and opportunity to enjoy new experiences and the rally is another fine example of what we have to offer.”
From an original entry of 12 teams in 1984, the race is the largest of its kind in the UK and will feature race dogs including Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, Greenland Dogs and Canadian Eskimo Dogs.
Over the weekend there will also be an opportunity for spectators to learn more about the sport and have a go at mushing for themselves through a series of classes.
Peter Jones is the event organiser and four-time winner of the rally.
The Lincolnshire musher said: “The Cairngorms are a beautiful backdrop for the race, we have always enjoyed a lot of local support and feel very welcome.
“The event is a real crowd-pleaser and a great family day out, so we encourage all to come along and watch the race, meet the mushers and dogs, and learn about the sport.
“It’s also a great way for people who don’t know the area to enjoy and experience what the Cairngorms have to offer.”
This year the event is sponsored by CSJ specialist canine feeds and will feature teams of between two and eight dogs pulling their musher on a sled around a four to seven mile trail, with race speeds reaching up to 25 miles an hour.