Sled dogs warm up in vineyard race

"Snowsports on dry land" - that's how sled dog racing in Hawke's Bay is described by its New Zealand exponents.

DOG POWER: The snow was at the other end of the country, but that didn't stop Napier's Craig Bell and his canine companion from competing in a sled dog race in Hawke's Bay at the weekend. NZPA

About 50 racers from all over New Zealand competed in the Hawke's Bay Vineyard Classic on Saturday.

Stephen Bell, club representative for host club Ridge Runners, said it was the first time a sled dog race had been held in a New Zealand vineyard.

You can say 'it's the first time' for any dog racing. period.

(...)

More than 100 spectators showed up to watch the racing.

Categories included two-, three- and four-dog races and there were no restrictions on what breed of dog could be used.

I want some dog photos!!

Now the challenge is to expand the sport here. New Zealand has 13 clubs eager for more members. Check the doglinks website for more information. Under Clubs