The run-up to the Canadian Challenge

Typically, driving a sled of huskies is a joy for Coady Lee, even at 30 below.

It’s important to watch for subtle changes in a dog’s running style.

“Driving a team of these dogs is like driving a Porsche, but they are just as cuddly and cute as a pet, super friendly and very good, off leash,” said Lee. “They just look like normal dogs as they putter around pissing on stuff and playing with each other; you would never know they are cooling down from running 100 km.”

Each dog receives a full body rubdown after a run to loosen up tense muscles. Lee uses natural ointments to soothe aches and pains, and they are also unleashed and fed a soup.

The Alaskan husky breed that Lee uses is ideal for racing. They are highly prized among sled racers as they have bigger hearts and lung capacity.

Lee is sledding from 70 to 100 km per day. By early February, he will give himself and the dogs a week’s rest in British Columbia.

While Lee does receive some sponsorship, it covers only a small portion of expenses. Dog food alone is $10,000 per year.

“This is a very expensive endeavour, so I find it best to work your ass off in the off season.”

The Canadian Challenge Sled Dog Race is billed as Canada’s premier dog race, as well as a qualifier for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod. Lee will compete in the 12-dog race – despite only using 11 – against seven other mushers.

Ther’s also competition for the shorter eight-dog and open races.