Skijoring

- one of the most exciting, yet least known sports in the world. If you have a big, healthy dog, a pair of cross-country skis, and a good attitude, you've got what it takes to get into Skijoring. Whether you want to compete to win or just want to have fun, the

North American Skijoring and Ski Pulk Association
has the resources to put you on the right trail.  NASSPA is a non-profit, all volunteer organization that promotes this rapidly growing sport by organizing races, recreational tours and instructive clinics and meetings with an emphasis on safe, responsible care and handling.  NASSPA also grooms more than 20 kilometers of multiuse trails in the Anchorage area.  All this is made possible by the hard work of volunteers and through funds raised from club events, membership dues and trail user donations.

Skijor (ski-jur) is a Norwegian word that means "ski-driving" - that is, a cross-country skier utilizing a dog, or dogs as draft animals.

Pulk (p-ulk) is a small sled pulled by a dog or dogs loaded with gear. In races it carries weight to handicap exceptionally fast dogs, or light, strong skiers. The skier is tethered to a pulk and follows it.

Begining Basics

Start Slow.  Keep it Fun. Kick your skis, not the dog.  You must enjoy cross country skiing. If you don't, you'll never convince the dog that this is a good idea.  Set aside the notion that the skier is being towed.  The skier, like a good jockey, does everything possible to unburden the dog, allowing it to either reach its maximum speed or maintain a slower pace for distance. Stopping competently on skis is a must. Not being able to endangers the dog and yourself.

All dogs pull instinctively, certain breeds possess the drive, confirmation and strength to excel in sprint races while others displaying those same positive traits, plus thicker coats, wider paws and a tougher psychology are better adapted for distance.  An average of 55 pounds is a good rule of thumb, but bigger in this case truly is better.

You'll need a properly fitted harness for the dog, a tether line with a bungee section, a waist belt or climbing harness for yourself and a pack to carry gear and pooper-scooper bags (small trash bags or plastic newspaper wrappers work well.)  Finally, be sure to brush up on trail protocol and go out and have some fun!

Cross country skis come in two basic types - classic and skate.  Skijor racing requires speed and skate skis on a prepared track are fastest.  When skiing over partially groomed terrain or non-groomed terrain, the classic 'backcountry' ski is recommended.  Metal edges are forbidden in races but if the edge is properly sharpened and maintained it will not cut flesh.  Edges provide stopping control and the construction of the ski is much tougher.  Backcountry skis have greater surface area allowing better floatation in deeper snow.

Check with ski clubs in your area for more information.  Most clubs hold classes for beginners throughout the winter season.  Good cross country skiing requires a lot of practice, patience and energy.