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From puppy chaos to competitive husky racing

On the Up: Taupo Couple Race Siberian Huskies, Share Passion for Sled Dogs

In the heart of New Zealand's North Island, where rolling hills and volcanic landscapes dominate the scenery, a Taupo couple has turned their love for Siberian Huskies into a thrilling pursuit of speed, endurance, and unbreakable bonds. Meet Sarah and Mike Thompson, a dynamic duo whose lives revolve around the rhythmic patter of paws on dirt trails and the exhilarating rush of competitive sled dog racing. Far from the snowy expanses of Alaska or Siberia, the Thompsons have adapted the ancient tradition of dog sledding to New Zealand's temperate climate, proving that passion knows no geographical bounds. Their story is one of dedication, community, and the sheer joy of watching their furry athletes thrive, and it's capturing the attention of animal lovers and adventure seekers across the country.

Sarah, 42, a former school teacher, and Mike, 45, a mechanic by trade, first crossed paths at a local dog show in Rotorua over a decade ago. Both were already smitten with Siberian Huskies—those striking blue-eyed canines known for their wolf-like appearance, boundless energy, and historical role as sled dogs in harsh Arctic conditions. "It was love at first sight, not just for each other, but for the breed," Sarah recalls with a laugh. What started as owning a single Husky as a family pet quickly snowballed into a full-fledged kennel operation. Today, the couple cares for a team of 12 Siberian Huskies on their 10-acre property just outside Taupo, where the dogs live in spacious, purpose-built runs complete with cooling pools for hot summer days and insulated shelters for the cooler nights.

The Thompsons' journey into racing began innocently enough. Inspired by documentaries about the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska, they wondered if such feats could be replicated in New Zealand. Without consistent snow, traditional sledding was out of the question, but the couple discovered the world of dryland mushing—a variant where dogs pull wheeled carts, bikes, or even scooters across dirt paths, gravel roads, and forest trails. "It's all about harnessing that natural pulling instinct," Mike explains. "Huskies were bred to run, and they live for it. In dryland racing, we're giving them an outlet for that energy while building incredible teamwork between human and dog."

Their entry into competitive racing came in 2015 when they participated in their first event at the New Zealand Sled Dog Association's annual meet in the Waikato region. Starting small with a two-dog team pulling a lightweight cart, they quickly climbed the ranks. By 2018, they were competing in larger classes, fielding teams of up to eight dogs in races that span 10 to 50 kilometers. These events, often held in rugged terrains like the pine forests near Kinleith or the volcanic plateaus around Taupo, test not just the dogs' speed and stamina but also the mushers' strategy and handling skills. "You have to read the dogs, know when to push and when to rest," Sarah says. "It's a partnership. If they're not happy, you're not going anywhere fast."

One of their standout achievements was at the 2022 North Island Dryland Championships, where their lead dog, a spirited five-year-old named Kodiak, guided the team to a first-place finish in the six-dog class. Kodiak, with his piercing blue eyes and thick silver coat, has become something of a celebrity in New Zealand's sled dog circles. "He's our rock," Mike beams. "Huskies are pack animals, and Kodiak sets the tone for the whole team. Watching them sync up and fly down the trail—it's pure magic." The couple's success hasn't gone unnoticed; they've been featured in local media and even invited to speak at international mushing conferences, sharing insights on adapting sled dog sports to warmer climates.

But racing is just one facet of their passion. The Thompsons are deeply committed to the welfare and breeding of Siberian Huskies. They emphasize ethical practices, ensuring their dogs receive top-tier veterinary care, a balanced diet rich in high-protein kibble supplemented with fresh meat, and plenty of socialization. "These aren't just racing machines; they're family," Sarah insists. The couple runs workshops for aspiring mushers, teaching everything from basic commands like "gee" (turn right) and "haw" (turn left) to advanced training techniques. They've also partnered with local schools to introduce children to the breed, fostering a new generation of dog enthusiasts. "Sharing our passion is what keeps us going," Mike adds. "Seeing a kid's face light up when they meet a Husky for the first time—it's priceless."

Life with a dozen Huskies isn't without its challenges. The dogs' high energy levels demand daily exercise, often involving early morning runs or evening hikes around Lake Taupo's shores. In New Zealand's variable weather, the Thompsons have had to innovate: during rainy seasons, they train on elevated tracks to avoid mud, and in summer, they schedule sessions at dawn to beat the heat. Health issues, like joint strain from pulling, are managed with regular check-ups and physiotherapy. Financially, it's no small feat—feeding, vet bills, and equipment can run into thousands annually—but the couple offsets costs through sponsorships from pet food brands and entry fees from their workshops.

The Thompsons' story also highlights the growing sled dog community in New Zealand. What was once a niche hobby, imported by expats from snowy nations, has blossomed into a vibrant scene with clubs in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Events draw competitors from Australia and even Europe, blending cultures and techniques. "It's not just about winning; it's about the camaraderie," Sarah notes. "We've made lifelong friends through this."

Looking ahead, the Thompsons have ambitious plans. They're breeding a new litter this year, aiming to produce dogs with the ideal mix of speed, endurance, and temperament for racing. Mike dreams of competing overseas, perhaps in the European Dryland Championships, while Sarah wants to expand their educational outreach with an online platform sharing training videos and breed information. "We're on the up," Mike says optimistically. "The sport is growing, and we're excited to be part of it."

In a world where modern life often disconnects us from nature, the Thompsons' dedication to their Siberian Huskies serves as a reminder of the profound connections possible between humans and animals. Their races aren't just competitions; they're celebrations of heritage, athleticism, and joy. As they gear up for the next season, with tails wagging and harnesses ready, Sarah and Mike continue to inspire others to embrace adventure, one paw print at a time. Whether tearing through Taupo's trails or mentoring newcomers, this couple is proving that the spirit of the sled dog endures, even in the land of the long white cloud.

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Read the Full The New Zealand Herald Article at:
[ https://www.nzherald.co.nz/the-country/coast-and-country-news/on-the-up-taupo-couple-race-siberian-huskies-share-passion-for-sled-dogs/LDZ6Z7MMSJBAVM5X524NLPNT3Y/ ]