Flathead Classic sled dog race this weekend

The Flathead Classic Sled Dog Race is Saturday, Feb.28 and Sunday, March 1 in Olney. Races start at 10 a.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sunday.

Flathead Classic will have a six- and four-dog sprint class followed by a one- and two-dog ski jore event both Saturday and Sunday morning.

Ski joring is a sport where the “musher” puts on cross-country or skate skis, wears a belt with a bungee and tugline and attaches themselves to a dog in harness. The theory is the dogs help pull you along the trail. The drawback from a dogsled is there are no brakes to hold you back. It is great fun to do and fun to watch.

New this year is a MUTT PULL on Saturday only. Organizers will have two sleds set up to run in a 50-foot chute, various size harnesses to use and a line to the dog to race to the finish line. Participants don’t have to be mushers but they do need to bring their dog on a leash and a helmet for junior mushers under 12 years old.

For this first mutt pull, organizers will have an open class for everyone entering, all ages. Dogs must weigh at least 30 pounds to participate and any breed that has a desire to pull is welcome. Come early to sign up and bring a can of human food in lieu of an entry fee.

Tailwaggers of Whitefish will have prize baskets for first and second place and all participants will receive a certificate of participation. All canned human food will be donated to Veteran’s Food Pantry.

Food and beverage will be available at the race site. Proceeds will benefit the Olney Volunteer Fire Department, a sponsor of these events.

For up-to-the-minute updates, go to www.flatheadclassic.org