Dogs have been used as
draft animals for centuries. Time trail events today continue today
as a new purpose for recreation mushing and as a sport and became
the focus of sled dog team events.
Competitions
Sled dog team
time
trail events may be divided into 4, 6 and 8-dog classes. Competitors
always starts individually with the distances run may range from 3
to 13 kilometers run over fairly level terrain on grass, dirt,
gravel, sand or similar surfaces. Asphalt and concrete are avoided.
Events
are usually a few hours in length. If an event such as the SA's is
held over 2 days, the competitor's final time will be based upon the
accumulated time over the period.
Competitors must use the same dog in all heats of the event and the
length of the line between the competitor and the dog is regulated,
generally between 2 and 2,67 meters per 2 dog section.
Ambient
temperatures exceeding certain limits may be cause for cancellation
of events as the safety of dogs and humans is of paramount concern.
It is advised that you
only participate in this activity with a well trained team of dogs
with an experienced lead dog.
What equipment do you need?
A well maintained 3 or 4-wheeled cart will be required. You need a
team of dog, sledding harnesses fitted for each dog on the team,
backline, tow or gangline, neck and tugline, most important a
stopline to hold your cart on pull away, bungee cart specific to the
size of the team, first aid kit for both dogs and musher.
What breed of dog can pull a cart?
Alaskan Malamutes need to run on a regular basis - many dog trainers
believe it should be every day. Some trainers run their dogs twice a
day but here in South Africa it is a weekend sports activity.
Walking on a leash at human pace is not the same as running at dog
speed. Obviously large dogs such as the Alaskan Malamute, a Nordic
sle dog, have no trouble pulling a cart as a team sport. Just
remember, when going uphill on a dirt trail, you need to get off and
run behind the cart. When going downhill, the cart rolls faster and
faster, so put on the brakes and keep that tugline tight! Don't let
the dog run too fast (for his own safety) and never let the cart
catch up to the dogs.
So your Alaskan Malamutes loves to run, give them the means to run -
teach them by starting with the other mushing principals. Carting is
a source of great exercise for both you and your dog(s). It will
allow you to explore the countryside, and give you both good sleep
when you get back home. Soon you will become addicted like the rest
of the musher fraternity.
RULES & REGULATIONS
Competitions are governed by local event giving organizations and
the International Sled Dog Events Associations.
RECREATIONAL MUSHING
It you are not the competitive type, recreational mushing should be
a must for you and your Alaskan Malamute.
Should you be interested in engaging with our activities, send an
e-mail to famcsa@gocco.co.za
