The Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain have had to make the hard decision to cancel the 2021 Aviemore Sled Dog Rally due to Covid-19.
The decision has been made due to the fact that the Forestry Commision will not allow permits for more than 30 people at a time.
Also the fact that mushers have not been able to prepare their dogs physically as they normally would due to restricted events in the working dog world.
The full statement made by Heather Smith on the SHCGB Aviemore Facebook page was as follows.
“Hi everyone.
An unfortunate decision and one that has not been taken lightly i can assure you.
Please rest assure we are now going to be working on 2022
IMPORTANT: AVIEMORE STATEMENT
As previously communicated, the Aviemore team been working tirelessly to test the viability of running this event.
With the current escalating cases of Covid-19, the uncertainties associated with any impending and future national and local lockdowns, shielding, difficulties with the control of spectators and assuring their safety and the added fact that many dogs may not have been able to train suitably for such a race, the Organisers and Committee have unfortunately concluded that the event will not be able to proceed.
This is deeply disappointing for both the Club and all those who so enjoy their annual trip to this wonderful part of the world for this historic race.
The health, safety and welfare of everyone involved in the event has been at the heart of this decision, as well as the long term future of the race. It has not been an easy decision to make and was not taken lightly.
Of course, Aviemore will return, and it will be even more of a success and celebration.
Both Team Aviemore and Committee thank you for your support and patience and extend their Best Wishes to you and your families in these very trying times and look forward to welcoming everyone back to Aviemore in 2022.”
