Chris Gillespie (left), of Greymouth, is competing at the Wanaka Sled Dog Festival for the first time with Mel Quinn’s show dogs, turned-novice sled dog racers, Whispa (1), Tala (3) and Monkey (6). Mel, right, operates Alpine Kennels in Greymouth. PHOTO: MARJORIE COOK - Wanaka, NZ 
Huskies getting ready to try sled racing
The Snow Farm will go to the dogs for the next three days as at least 120 canine athletes and their two-legged companions compete in the 25th annual Sled Dog Festival.
At least 21 mushers have registered to put their teams through their paces in early morning events today, tomorrow and on Saturday.
Yesterday, several canine competitors conducted an amiable meet and greet with the public at the Wanaka showgrounds.
Six huskies from Mel Quinn’s Alpine Kennels in Greymouth particularly lapped up the adoration.
That’s because the pet purebreds regularly attend dog shows. Monkey (6) and Sonic (4) are both best-in-show winners.
They and Tala (3), Whispa (1), and Rage (2) are descended from the team matriarch, US-bred Apple (10).
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