After a short break while the Forestry Commision felled a vast amount of trees, the Club returned to Kielder forest. 

Unfortunately this coincided with some of the heaviest rain in the area for many years, resulting in the course being reduced to a small river in many places on the Friday before the rally. Several sections were washed away, cutting short the course to three miles for all classes except B, which included a loop creating a four mile run.

Weather for the event itself was a mix of heavy rain both mornings, followed by dry weather in the afternoon.

A suprising number of spectators turned up to watch mushers and huskies splashing around in the mud and puddles.

Funniest moment of the weekend was hearing Matt Emery being described as awesome after winning D class on Sunday, by second place Mick Byrne, who was resplendent in his green wellis all weekend.

Most impressive moment was watching Jessica Liddle win the J1 class at a rate of knots which put some of the adult mushers to shame.

Finally thanks must go to everybody who marshalled and helped run the event, especially Malcolm and Rachel Bateman who don't compete, but always help out.

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Author: Paul Norris