Dog skijoring races ahead this weekend

The Daily Inter Lake

Glacier Outdoor Center in West Glacier will host the second of three weekends of dog skijoring races Saturday and Sunday in an effort to promote the fun winter sport with the community, while supporting a good cause.

This event will benefit the Humane Society of Northwest Montana, which will receive 40 percent of entry fees and 100 percent of all dog trail pass fees for the weekend.

Humane Society volunteers will be on hand to answer questions as well as show off some of their dogs in need of a home. Donations will be accepted.

Skijoring is a Scandinavian sport involving a human on skis pulled by an animal or team of animals. It is derived from a similar Norwegian word meaning ski driving.

Dogs are fitted with pulling harnesses and then tethered by quick-release ropes to supportive belts around their owners' waists.

Both doggie-cross and a dog drag races will be held. There are two divisions for each competition and prizes will be awarded to the winners. No experience is needed to participate.

Preregistration is available in person at the Outdoor Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily or by calling 888-5454. The entry fee is $25 per team and includes trail use for the weekend and use of skijoring equipment.

Preregistered race teams are welcome to practice on the groomed trail system this week from noon to 5 p.m., as well as try skijoring equipment free of charge.

Registrations will be accepted until noon on Saturday; racing begins at 1 p.m.

On Sunday, registration starts at 9 a.m. and races begin at 11 a.m.

Spectators are encouraged to cheer on their favorite team and enjoy a bonfire, hot chocolate, coffee and cookies. For those interested in the sport, but without the proper equipment, free demos will be available throughout the weekend. Both skate and traditional Nordic skis also are available for rent.

For more information, call 888-5454.