The crew and all the SPK Racers went on an early season camp out in late October.
First we exercised the three teams in and around the Two Rivers trails. Then we accessed a trail that we seldom use – this is a route that does not have any commonality with the Yukon Quest trail – then we parked the ATVs. After parking, we pulled the dog teams off to the side, gave them a meal and eventually, a straw bed.
Most dogs took the opportunity to lay in the sunshine. This was a great refresher about eating and resting whenever the chance might arise. Wes, Wendy and Mac made the entire experience simulate a Race Checkpoint as they greeted the teams and helped park everyone. We all relaxed and roasted hot dogs over the fire. We even had one of our neighborhood dog teams pass thru our camp spot. It was the perfect training experience.
After a short rest and fully bellies, the dogs and mushers continued their exercise program. We trained some additional miles and eventually returned to the kennel for an evening meal and a nice sleep back in their our own beds.
Decaf and relax. Whoda thunk you’d have to put those words together? ME! That’s why I picked him of the puppies. He was not acting at all like a decaf dog!! What a great experience for them and of course, hot dogs over a campfire? The best way to take a camp break. Love it.
Without snow, it looks like a campout in the burn.
What a fantastic training for the teams.
<3
Sounds like a perfect training opportunity….and FUN! Hoping you all get some snow…I’m sure sleds would be a welcomed change!
Missed this one but wow-great experience for everyone! Fun too!