On November 3rd & 4th the sounds of eager sled dogs, mushers and K-9 enthusiasts will fill the air at MacGregor Point Provincial Park as excited teams wait their turn to compete at the MacGregor Point Dryland Sled Dog Derby.
The Sled Dog Sports Association of Southwestern Ontario (SSASO) and MacGregor Point Provincial Park have teamed up again to bring the sled dogs back into the park! This will be the third year visitors can come out and see these amazing K-9 athletes and the humans that cherish them.
A dog sled derby is a unique cultural, educational and exciting event that lets dogs to do something they love – run! Last year, there were 68 class entrees from all over Ontario, Quebec and the U.S. and it is anticipated these numbers will grow this year.
During the Derby, each race team must compete in the same race class, with the same 
dogs on both the Saturday and Sunday races. The fastest accumulated time determines the winners. Designated race viewing areas will be set up for spectators. Visitors are encouraged to meet mushers and their K-9 athletes and to ask questions about the sport and lifestyle they enjoy so much. More information is available at www.ssaso.ca .
Information will also be provided on sled dog history and how to get started in K-9 harness activities.
Friends of MacGregor will be on-site offering breakfast and BBQ lunch items, coffee, hot chocolate and treats over the weekend.
There will also be a Raffle at the park’s Visitor Centre to help raise funds for next year’s event.
Park Ontario issued day-use parking passes can be obtained through the park’s administrative building.
Spectators are welcome to come out and enjoy the fast-paced world of sled dogs on November 3rd & 4th, 9:15am-3:00pm at MacGregor Point Provincial Park, just south of Port Elgin.
Note: Visitors are requested to please ask the musher before approaching the dogs.
**Please leave your pets at home**
Admissions to the races are by donation
Dry land Races/Class offered Saturday & Sunday:
Novice classes are offered on Saturday to try out the sport in the 1 Dog Canicross (2 mile) and 1 Dog Bikejoring (2 mile) race classes. Please register before the event, information can be found on the web page. Dog harness, lines & equipment rentals are available starting October 1st and can be acquired through the SSASO Event organizer Lisa De Gennaro. All proceeds raised from rentals go towards the Derby.
SSASO is still looking for sponsorships, donations and in-kind donations. We are also looking for volunteers for set-up (Friday, November 2nd), take down (Monday, November 5th) and help during the weekend.
More information:: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1500800200138010/
Website: www.ssaso.ca
Facebook group: MacGregor Point Park Dryland Race Or Contact Lisa De Gennaro at lisadegennaro@gmail.com
