This weekend was Kalkaska. The trail was the best I have ever seen! Saturday got unbelievably hot, but the trail wasn't ruined at all. I tried to lead Heini on Saturday, but I couldn't get her to focus enough. I had to make a last minute (literally LAST MINUTE) swap in the chute and put Keytone up next to Freddie. They were both perfect in front. I was worried that Fred was going to overheat, but she had no problem. Sunday I was able to have a friend of mine hold Heini in the chute. She was still a little spooked, but Kim dealt with her very well and I left with no problems. The dogs were absolutely perfect. We were a solid 2 or 3 minutes off winning times, but I simply cannot complain about how they ran. I have TONS of pictures and video to add, so I'll get to work on that. Jockey, May, Star and Oak were just as impressive in the 4dog. Those little babies held 13mph, which really shocked me. Beyond that, Kuz, June, and Roary also got to race. They are out of shape and very slow, but they know their business, behaved beautifully and finished strong.
Because everything warmed up so much this weekend and then froze overnight, the ground is completely iced over. I doubt I'll be able to run at all this week. It's just not worth the risk to run on the ice. This coming weekend is Atlanta, but the weather isn't looking good and the chairman doubts the snow will hold. So, if we're out of another race, we'll go to Baldwin or maybe Lost Lake for a fun run...hopefully still on sleds.
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Hi Annie,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Jess and I am wondering if you would be a reference for me on a paper I have to write. Basically, The focus will be on defending the mushers and dogs and proving that the dogs and mushing is an intrinsic part of the Alaskan culture. Would you be willing to answer any questions I have?
Thanks much,
Jessica
BTW: I really like reading your blogs!
Hey, I'd love to give you some info. Sorry about the late response.
ReplyDeleteThanks for helping me out! Well here are some possible objections that I have to refute in my paper and because you actually have and work with the dogs you'd be an excellent reference. So here are the questions. By the way if I hadn't said anything, I love reading your blog. Your living an awesome dream!
ReplyDeleteSo here goes.
• There are animal activist groups feel that the Iditarod is excessively harmful for the dogs. Being so long, and so cold is this humane to the dogs?
• Many activists think that the dogs are abused and neglected in the kennels they live in. That pups are culled if they don't meet the requirements mushers have. They also think that the dogs die as a result of the Iditarod.
•Do the animal rights? If they can't or don't want to run, will they be disposed of or beaten?
I really want to stress the love between man and dog. So if you want to add anything else please feel free. When I am done, I will get a copy of my essay to you. Thanks so much! Oh, could you email me your answers, to jessica_k@wi.rr.com
Peace
Jessi aka Denver
Hi Annie,
ReplyDeleteI was wondering if you wouldn't mind resending the email you previously sent to me. I had some computer problems and lost my email client. I hope this doesn't inconvenience you. thank you so much
Jessica