Sled Dog Racing

This year was my first experience at the Can-Am Crown International Dog Sled Race in Fort Kent, Maine.

Unsure of what to expect, I bundled up as the temperatures were below zero that morning. I arrived early around 6:30 a.m. Teams were arriving as well and I was able to see a few harnessing up their dogs, some wore booties as well. You could feel and see the excitement that the dogs had. They howled with songs of excitement and joy, it was a beautiful thing to witness.

The first race was about to begin. I looked down the raceway towards the starting line and the dogs were jumping up and down and howling in pure happiness. I could tell immediately that this is what these dogs are born to do. The drive and passion they had.

The count down began 10, 9, 8, till 1 and take off! The crowed cheered as they begin their journey! The next team would get ready for take off as the crowd watched the first team. As the team began down the raceway the dogs stopped barking. They were focused, excited, and putting all their energy into running. The mushers looked just as excited and would give the crowed a wave as they past by.

If you have not been to the Can-Am I highly suggest you go. The experience of this whole race had me and still has me in Awe! The hard work, dedication, discipline, and time that the Mushers and dogs have put into training for this race truly inspires me. The bond, trust and loyalty these mushers have with their dogs is truly beautiful and has me wanting to explore this world more. They have all inspired me and I cannot wait to get more into this world!

Next season cannot come soon enough!