Sled dog teams compete at park today
Sled dog teams from the

U.S. and Canada will converge on Sinnemahoning State Park today and tomorrow for a "Dryland Event" that could grow into a major addition to the park's schedule.

Starting at 9:00 a.m. Saturday and continuing into the late afternoon hours, the event will include canine-cross, bike-joring, cart races and snowshoe-building demonstrations. Park officials will also present a program on wild canines.

Sunday's hours were not set as of press time.

Dryland racing is an alternative for sled dog enthusiasts when there's no snow for races or exhibitions.

Traditionally, sled dogs are harnessed to a belt pulling for riders on skis. In the Dryland Event, dirt will replace snow and skis will be replaced by bicycle tires.

There will be competition for single dogs, as well as two- and four-dog teams. All the races will run for 1.2 miles, except for the four-dog pro race. That distance will depend on trail conditions.

Spectator areas will be open along the trails and staging area. Refreshments will be available.

If the arrangements at Sinnemahoning are suitable and spectator interest is high, races could be held on a snow-covered course at the park as soon as this winter.

Turnout of dog teams will probably be modest, according to a spokesman for the Smethport-based C a n a d i a n - A m e r i c a n Sledders, but the event has the potential to grow.