Hundreds of dogs gathered at Le Mans for sled races

For the third year, the ark of nature in Le Mans welcomes a national competition of 400 sled dogs, of different races. From 1 p.m. on Saturday December 14, 2024, the participants set off in teams of one to eight dogs: on three or four-wheel karts, on a cani-mountain bike, on a cani-scooter or even in canicross (from the race to towed foot). This competition is a qualifier for the World Cup of the International Federation of Dog Sled Sports and the World Cup of the World Sleddog Association.

An unusual spectacle

Helmet screwed on the skull, speed glasses on the nose, Violaine Girard Grau is ready to beat the clock. The reigning world champion in single dog, coming straight from Switzerland, intends to grab points for the international selections. With her eight dogs, she is the first to set off, perched on her 4-wheel kart.

Although the world champion competes in three categories, her track record does not quell the stress that arises before the start. “It’s always like that in races that I don’t know”she explains. But the procrastination is brief, it’s time to head to the line. With her team, she struggles to hold back her wild huskies who are determined to show what they are capable of.

Teamwork

In turn, the competitors calm their dogs, put them back into lines and set off for a course of approximately seven kilometers. “They’re not just here to pull us,” specifies Jean Marc Charneau, president of the Mushing and dog club and organizer of the race. “We must work together! By skating when things climb well, by running if necessary, we encourage them, we participate with them.“

For him, this sport is above all a dialogue and an exercise in trust between the master and the lead dogs. The well-being of the animal remains at the center of the musher’s concerns. “It’s a lot of time playing with them. It’s not just training, it’s also complicity“recalls Yohann Henry president of the French sleigh sports federation. Added to this are the numerous trips and expenses. “It’s sacrifices, but we are passionate”he concludes.

The start of something else

Among the participants: Kenzo and his father Clément Lelfèche. At 10 years old, Kenzo can neither speak nor walk, but he will still set off with his father and his dogs. “Throughout the year, we see that it brings him well-being“confides Clément. For this race, he will give the orders and direct the dogs, but Kenzo will be able to enjoy the sensations and adrenaline of the race.

“It’s always moving when you cross the line”says the musher. For Kenzo, but not only, they created an association: an adventure for Kenzowhich aims to realize the sporting dreams of people with disabilities. “Our goal is to demonstrate dog sled karts at the 2030 Winter Olympics.”warns Clément Leflèche.

This 2024 edition is therefore a departure for several projects. The Nature Arch will host the French sled dog racing championships next year. This will represent more than double the number of participants.