NEW ZEALAND FEDERATION OF SLED DOG SPORTS

 

SPEED RACE RULES - NOME STYLE

EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 1994

 

 

Based on an undated version of the "Speed Race Rules" of the International Federation of Sled-Dog Sports.  This version was attached to a remit pasted at the February 1994 AGM of the New Zealand Federation of Sled-Dog Sports.

 

 

PART I - ENTRY RULES

 

A.                  ELIGIBILITY

1.                   SIZE OF TEAMS

a.                   An unlimited class team shall consist of not less than seven (7) dogs in the first heat, and not less than five (5) dogs in any subsequent heat.

b.                   A limited Ten-Dog Class team shall consist of not more than ten (10) dogs, not less than seven (7) dogs in the first heat and not less than five (5) dogs in any subsequent heat.

c.                    A limited Eight-Dog Class team shall consist of not more than eight (8) dogs, not less than four (4) dogs.

d.                   A limited Six-Dog Class team shall consist of not more than six (6) dogs, not less than three (3) dogs.

e.                    A limited Three-Dog Class team shall consist of not more than three (3) dogs, not less than two (2) dogs.

f.                     After the first heat and each ensuing heat, a driver may voluntarily reduce the size of the team, subject to class’s minimum.

g.                   The Race Marshall may reduce the size of any team that he determines is too large for the designated driver.

 

B.                   EQUIPMENT

1.                   HARNESSES AND LINES

a.                   All dogs shall be harnessed in single or double file.

b.                   All dogs shall be fastened to the tug by a neck line and tail line with the exception of the leader(s) who shall be harnessed in the team by a tail line but may run without a neck line.

c.                    A snub line may be carried on the sled but it shall not be used in any other manner than to tie down and hold the sled.

2.                   SLEDS

a.                   A sled shall be capable of adequately carrying the driver and have a basket capable of carrying a dog.

b.                   A sled shall be equipped with an adequate brake, brushbow, snow hook and dog bag.

 

PART II - TRAIL RULES

 

A.                  DRIVING A TEAM

1.                   A driver may ride the sled, pedal or run as wished.

2.                   All dogs starting the heat shall complete the entire course, either hitched in the team or carried on the sled.

3.                   A dog becoming unfit after departure shall be carried on the sled.