Weston makes his debut!

Our first scheduled event of the season (The Eagle Lake 100) in northern Maine was cancelled due to lack of snow. We are NOT lacking for snow this year in Rockingham County, that is for certain!!! Since our team is behind in miles as compared to last season, Eagle Lake's cancellation did not come as a disappointment. Instead, we entered and supported two smaller New England events.

Last season Weston spent countless hours helping us train the dogs. We promised him an opportunity to race, but the right time did not present itself. Typically when it comes to volunteering as the member of an RGO, your own team suffers. This year, rather than have our dogs hang out and do nothing for the weekend, we said to Weston.... now is your opportunity! So, Bob and Weston each ran an 8 dog team in the two day Stratford Nighthawks Sled Dog Race while Rhonda stayed back at the starting line, working as the event timer. On day one of the races, Bob and Weston stuck close together. Once Bob felt comfortable knowing Weston could navigate on his own, he push it a bit on Sunday and succeeded in shaving almost 1/2 hour off his day one finish time.

Learning of the 12 dog class being offered in Brownville, ME, Bob suggested we submit an entry. Not too many 12 dog mid-distance races in our area and he's NOT a big fan of driving 6-8 dogs. The day prior to the race Jaye came up to camp and joined Bob on a 40+ run. The dogs looked great, actually finished well enough we all thought the run should have been planned as a 50 miler. Next time....

After dinner Friday, we closed up camp and headed to the home of Gary and Joan Chapman @ the home of the Maine Highlands Sled Dog Club. Puppies had their first real road trip, complete with x-pen. Camp does not really count since they have a kennel to play in. Lots of opportunity for socialization. Our black and white pup was the kids favorite. EVERY young child at the race got a chance to hold him. Allie lead a few kids around for the 1-dog dash. She was very pleased with herself to have such a responsible job for the day :)

The team looks great, as evidenced by this photograph taken by Brian Oelberg. Now we must decide the plan for the remainder of the race season. Greenville is certainly tempting but would result in too much time off from training due to traveling, vet checks and Sunday awards banquet. We are seriously considering a potential entry in the Odyssee Appalachienne as well as putting Weston back on the runners for the Sandwich Notch races.