8 Dog Sled – The Good and the Bad

We want to provide a fulsome update on our trails, race rules, and mileage for the 8 dog class. So far we have 5 musher signed up to race!

The committee and trail team made a valiant effort over the past few years to find a way to re-integrate a mid-distance style class. As most will remember, last year there was about 20 miles of trails planned through a network of lakes available to us. Unfortunately, Mother Nature did not cooperate with us and none of the lakes froze to satisfaction. This year multiple alternate trails were scouted throughout Kearney including past routes, public trails, logging roads, and snowmobile trails.

After exhaustive efforts we have finalized our route for the 8 dog class as an approximately 9 mile route. Racers will navigate the 6 dog trail (5.2 miles) in addition to an extension of trail running through private property we are afforded usage of. There will be rolling hills and a creek crossing (trail packed over a culvert). There is a sharp turn immediately after that crossing. Mushers can also expect some tight areas of trails where passing will not be possible, so everyone will need to communicate clearly with their competitors about when and where they can safely pass. The trail will be well marked as will any tricky spots along the route. There will be no water/ice crossings.

We will be using IFSS rules for the entire race and this class is IFSS sanctioned for points.

We are waving the additional equipment rules that KDSR has implemented in the past. This means that 8 dog mushers do not have to pack additional gear, dog food, or safety equipment. Racers will simply need a fully functional racing sled following IFSS rules for the SP8 class.

We are hopeful that we will be able to map the entire trail in the new year once we have our trails groomed and set. Stay tuned for that along with videos of the trail system for your review.

Our trail team has been working hard on the race course for over 30 years, but they can’t maintain the same level of grooming without additional help. If mushers want longer distances, now is the time to pitch in. We’re eager to welcome new team members to assist with trail maintenance and development, which could make a mid-distance class possible in the future. If you’re local or know someone who is, and are interested in helping build new trail networks, please reach out.

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask us by emailing info@kearneydogsledraces.ca!