FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
02.01.2025

Seven aspiring sleddog enthusiasts from Wales Sleddog Sports Junior Academy, aged 8 to 18, from North Wales and Cheshire will be heading to Thetford Forest, England on 18–19 January to compete in the British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF) British National Championships! These dedicated young athletes will participate in Canicross (running with dogs) and the Dryland Rig (2-dogs) races against top competitors from across the UK.

The championship is split into three heats with the second and third heats being held in January and February 2025. Racer’s four best times are tallied to determine the British National Champions. Those who finish on top will earn a coveted spot representing Great Britain at the International Federation for Sleddog Sports World Championship competition.

‘My heart lies with our Junior Academy young people, who we have introduced young people to sleddog sports activities such as Canicross & Dryland Rig. Some of our youngsters prefer a different type of outdoor activity rather than traditional sports.  Witnessing their excitement and achievements over the last 4 years as they participate and develop their skills as Dog Mushers and Canicrossers is immensely rewarding. They learn to work as a team, develop leadership, self-discipline, and build resilience — all while having fun in a supportive outdoor environment. Our Academy provides a space where young people can thrive, particularly those who prefer a different style of learning. Seeing such a diverse group of young people compete in the British National Championships is truly inspiring,” says Joe Swiffen, Director of Mynydd Sleddog Adventures Ltd. “They’ve trained tirelessly alongside our dogs, and we’re so excited to see them showcase their dedication and represent Wales on a national stage.”  

Imy, aged 15 from Cheshire says ‘I can’t believe that I have been given the opportunity to race at the BSSF British National Championships this year. I am so excited about it and can’t wait to put everything I have learned in my 3 years of the Wales Sleddog Sports Junior Academy into practice. We are lucky enough to be running the best dogs in the world (in our totally unbiased opinion!). To be able to compete at the National Championships is incredible and I am really looking forward to it. We would like to thank Joe for lending us dogs and equipment as well as teaching us everything we know about sleddog racing. She truly is amazing! See you in Thetford!

John, age 13 from Bangor says “This is a dream come true for me, I don’t enjoy anything as much as I enjoy dogsledding and now I am getting the chance to race in the British championships.”

About the Event

• Dates & Location (Heat 2): 18–19 January in Thetford Forest, Norfolk, England
• Next Heat: 22-23 February in Hinton Admiral, Dorset, England
• Disciplines: Canicross and Junior Dryland Rig (2-dog)
• Qualification for Internationals: Top four cumulative times across all heats

Contact

For more information, please contact:
Joe Swiffen
Director, Mynydd Sleddog Adventures Ltd
01745 777022
howl@mynyddsleddogadventures.com
www.mynyddsleddogadventures.com 

More information

• The BSSF (British Sleddog Sports Federation) aims to promote and develop sleddog sports in Great Britain, creating opportunities for athletes of all ages and backgrounds.
• More information about upcoming races and the BSSF can be found at https://thebssf.org.uk/2024-25-races/.