October Cani-Cross a success

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CANI-CROSS — Sandy Brouwer and canine-partner crossing the finish line at Roberts Farm Preserve.

NORWAY — On a foggy and soggy October 20th morning, 15 enthusiastic canines and their human running partners ran in the second annual 5k cani-cross at Roberts Farm Preserve, Norway.

Canine teams came locally from the Oxford Hills, from Lewiston/Auburn, and from as far away as Connecticut for this year’s event. Cani-crosses are popular warm-season training events for mushers but are also great training opportunities for non-sled dogs outfitted with harnesses.

Scott Bottomley won the men’s category with a time of 25:59, with Andre Dube (26:56) and Craig Menkes (27:36) coming in second and third. Beryl Martin and her canine partner won the women’s division in 26 minutes with Lee Dassler (27:23) and Gina Snow (30:43) coming in second and third.

Jessica and Joey Daniels, two legged runners, also competed. The mother and son duo completed the rigorous 5k course in under 48 minutes.

Following the race, which was chipped timed by Back 40 Timing, a 2k dog walk was held to benefit Responsible Pet Care’s campaign to purchase a new animal shelter.

An additional 5k cani-cross will be held on Sunday, November 18 at 9 a.m. (rain or shine) followed by a 2k dog walk 9-11 a.m. Proceeds from both the November 18th race and walk will go to Responsible Pet Care’s new animal shelter campaign. Like the October cani-cross, the event will be sponsored by Fare Share Market, Nooksack Racing, Paris Farmers Union and the Western Foothills Land Trust. Race entry will be $10; on-line pre-registration available at runreg.com. On-site registration will open at 8:30 am.

Roberts Farm Preserve is located at 64 Roberts Rd. in Norway. For more information, contact the Western Foothills Land Trust at 743-8820, wflt@megalink.net.