Sled Dog racing is the world's fastest growing winter sport and Scotland's where it's happening. There are over 150 competitive teams in Scotland comprising of Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, Eskimo Dogs and purpose bred Eurohounds. These dogs are elite athletes as well as beloved pets, and they live to run. Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain spokeswoman Judy Wakker said the weekend event near Aviemore was an "amazing opportunity" for mushers. "The atmosphere is amazing, it's buzzing, " she said. The Cairngorms experienced some of the heaviest snowfalls during the recent prolonged spell of severe weather. Teams of Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes and Canadian Eskimo dogs are racing round a four-mile track on sledges instead of the usual wheeled rigs. Ms Wakker said more than 200 competitors and more than 1, 000 dogs were taking part. "It's the first time we have run the sleds on snow for 15 years, " she said. "To get the opportunity to run sled dogs on snow in Scotland is amazing. "Normally you have to go to the Alps in France and Germany to get the opportunity to run on snow." Mrs Wakker said 2, 000 to 3, 000 spectators watch the annual event. One of the event organisers, Sarah Robinson from Watford, said the race, which was attracting competitors from across the country was considered to be "one of the most challenging and prestigious of the Siberian Husky Club's series of rallies". The event, held on Saturday and Sunday, was first staged in 1984.
