Cardrona Snow Farm Set to Host Dog Sled Race

Media Release
For immediate release
Tuesday 21 August 2007

Cardrona Snow Farm Set to Host New Zealand’s Biggest Sled Dog Race

This year’s PRO PLAN Wanaka Sled Dogs Race at Cardrona Valley Snow Farm promises to be a great spectacle, with a solid entry list and excellent snow conditions.

In its 12th year, the event gets underway on Monday 3 September 2007 at 5.00 p.m.

Over 180 dogs have entered the five day event, which is New Zealand’s biggest sled dog race. Sponsored by Nestlé Purina PetCare, the 2007 field of musher and dog teams has entrants hailing from all over the country, with the majority coming from the South Island.

The event is divided into five categories; six, four, three, two or single ski-jouring dog teams. Depending on the category, teams compete against each other in three heats split over a 5-10 km course.
Nestlé Purina PetCare Trade Marketing Manager, Neil Robb, said that this year’s event is stacking up to be one of the best ever.Â

“Many experienced mushers are competing and the return of the last year’s champions will ensure this year’s event will be as competitive as any we have seen in the last 11 years.

“With the recent heavy snowfalls we are expecting fantastic course conditions and scenery.”

Dog breeds that will participate in the race include; Siberian and Alaskan Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds and other breeds you might not expect to see such as Pointers, Labradors, Border Collies, and Huntaways.

The Pro Plan Wanaka Dog Sled race concludes on 6 September 2007, with prize-giving taking place at the Hawea Tavern at 6:30 p.m.

“The event has always attracted a diverse range of competitors, with young and old all competing with great passion and enthusiasm. We have quite a few husband and wife teams and also a mum and daughter team. This year we are expecting to see a number of enthusiasts competing in the event for the first time,” said Neil.
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“Also, it’s great to see many of the experienced mushers entering again this year, which is testament to the passion which lies within the sport, from both competitors and supporters alike.”

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