Husky sled dog rally return to strath heralded 'great success' but fears for event's future
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The 38th annual Aviemore sled dog rally run was heralded as a great success by its organisers the Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain.
The rally, which was funded by sponsors CSJ Specialist Feeds, Leucillin and Photizo, was held over the weekend.
Participants faced an uphill battle against the weather, with gale force winds on Saturday eventually being replaced by a cold frost on Sunday.
All teams ran well and enjoyed a demanding 4.2 mile forest trail around Loch Morlich and through Glenmore Forest.
Race organiser Pete Jones said: “The event was again a great success. It was good to see so many people come and watch the event, many travelling a long distance to do so."
The rally makes a triumphant return after organisers had to take the hard decision to cancel last year's event due to Covid-19.
Mr Jones said: "We were determined to make it happen this year. The Siberian Husky Club race organisers are now working with Scottish Forestry to commit to continuing the event next year.
"It's important to note that without sponsors, this event could not go ahead. Each year becomes a bigger challenge to keep this event running.
"If there are any companies that would like to get involved with the event next year, please get in touch.”
Inverness-based Scott Maclean was one of those competing and he was successful in the Canicross event with Duke, his four-year-old Siberian husky.
On Saturday, they crossed the line in 9 minutes 33 seconds, finishing in a conditional second place. The following day, they completed the course in 9 minutes 15 seconds to push into first place overall for the weekend.
Mr Maclean praised event organisers and sponsors for ensuring the event took place.
"If it was not for our contributors and sponsors then these events just wouldn't go ahead," he said. "The event is great for Glenmore and Aviemore and fingers crossed it keeps on going."
Find out more about the Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain by visiting siberianhuskyclub.org.uk.
