UAF West Ridge Race

By Brian Charlton, Race Director

Mother Nature smiled upon Fairbanks with temperatures warming up 20 degrees overnight making for a fun day for the annual ASPA West Ridge Skijor Race at UAF. 23 racers and 39 dogs enjoyed the excellent trails provided by UAF groomers Jason and Quinn who groomed before and after the race.

The 4.5 mile race was the most popular of the day. Jesse Warwick with Joba and Jack led ten finishers in the 2-3 dog class with a blazing fast time of 16:55 followed by Sunnifa Deehr pulled by Clyde and Moose at 18:28. Bruce Miller and Roy sped to a win in the one dog class in 20:46 followed by Nellie Ballou and Otter at 23:18. Third and fourth in the one dog class went to the young sister and brother duo of Leni and Tobin Stolz with Mika and Stanley. The beginner’s class was won by Dylan Burton and Molly beating Emma Charlton and Clyde by ten seconds. Erin Trochim with Itty and Tarsis were the only team to brave the 2-lap 9 mile route, winning in 43:23.

A last minute plea for volunteers resulted in outpouring of help. Thank you to UAF, all of the volunteers, racers and dogs for making this race a success. Half of the race proceeds will be donated to the UAF Trails Club. And of course, please remember that this race is the only time dogs are allowed on the UAF ski trails during the winter.