The Island will host its first ever canicross event on Sunday March 22. Canicross is a fun event in which dog owners can walk, jog or run a cross-country course with their pets. It’s all the rage in the UK, but it will be staged in the Isle of Man for the first time when a charity event is held at Archallagan Plantation. The ‘Paws In The Plantation Canicross’ – which is sponsored by Nedbank Private Wealth – is being organised by The Children’s Centre in partnership with the ManxSPCA (Manx Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). There are events for adults and children, so it will be a great day out for all the family and all proceeds will be split equally between both charities. You can enter before the event, or just turn up on the day.
The fun starts at 9.30am on March 22 with a 1km event for children aged seven to 10 and 11 to 14 yrs. From 10am there is a 5km event for the 15 to 39-year-old age group; 40 to 54-year-olds; and for the over 55s. All participants – whether they have signed up before the event or are signing-up on the day – will have to sign-in at the registration desk between 8.30am and 9am. Entry costs ?10 for under 17-year-olds, and ?20 for competitors aged 17 and over.
There’s no age limit for dogs – but organisers advise that they should be one year old before doing too much exercise to ensure that they have grown sufficiently. However, larger breeds may need to be a little older. If you have any doubts about your dog’s ability to take part, please consult your vet beforehand.
Lisa Motley, Events Fundraiser at The Children’s Centre, said:
“Canicross is already a popular activity in the UK, but this will be the first time an event has been held in the Isle of Man. In addition to raising funds for two great charities, we also hope that the event will encourage more pet owners to run or jog with their dogs. We would love to have lots of walkers take part in the event too! It’s a great activity with health benefits for owners and pets. Regular exercise means that dogs will be happier, more content, and the bond between owner and their pet will be stronger. On average, fit and healthy dogs live two years longer than those that don’t get regular exercise.”
There are rules about the type of leads and collars which owners can use for their pets – full details can be found at http://www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/adventure-events/ where you can also enter the event online. For more details go to the website or contact Lisa Motley by phoning 676076 or emailing LisaMotley@thechildrenscentre.org.im.
Photo - Alex Henderson, aged 15, gets in some training for the canicross event.
