FARMINGTON – Originally scheduled this weekend, a popular sled dog race has been postponed due to inclement weather and trail conditions.
The 9th annual Farmington Sled dog race, presented by the Down East Sled Dog Club and organized by Mark and Joy Turner, was intended to run through the weekend at the Sandy River Farm fields but had to be postponed following days of warm weather, fog and rain. The Turners hope to reschedule the event for Feb. 17.
“Hopefully the weather will improve next time,” Joy Turner said. “We put a lot of work into it.”
Typically, races begin at 9 am. and run until 3 p.m. Events include four-, six- and eight-dog races for adults, with a three-dog race for children ages 9 to 15, as well as a 50-yard, single-dog children’s sprint. Adult races range from 4 to 8 miles.
The Turners’ future endeavors include racing events in Newport and Exeter. Mark Turner said that there was high interest among non-racers who wanted to ride the sleds, and he might prepare an event in March to fulfill those tastes.
We so appreciate all the work Mark & Joy and others put into this event. Hopefully winter will return in time for the rescheduled event. A great thing for our area!
Hope winter returns because this race is FUN to watch…
I think the term sled dog race should be used consistently. Not dog sled.