Photos by Craig Nicholson
The sport of sled dog racing is very much alive and well throughout New Zealand, with clubs in both the North and South Islands. And the lack of snow in most areas for at least part of the year does not dampen the enthusiasm of the Siberian huskies or their owners - sleds with wheels fit the requirements perfectly.
Many of the dogs who regularly compete in races are also show dogs - owners find that racing keeps their stock interested, fit and in the peak of condition. Active breeds such as the huskies need to participate in some form of sport - agility or obedience being alternatives - or they could lose interest in the show ring, presenting themselves as bored and disinterested.
The racing photographs were taken during the Great Northern Classic in June, 1999. As the coming winter will be cold and long (Met Service report) expectations are for a good racing season.
Section and over-all winners from the last Auckland Siberian Husky Club championship show in October 1999, judged by Mr Linton Moustakis of Alaska, make racing fitness a prerequisite to showing, at least in the Mulholland and Johnson kennels.
