Take Part in Salisbury’s JumpFest Human Dog Sled Race February 2 @ Satre Hill

 Jumpfest, organized by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA), isn’t just about aspiring Olympic Ski Jumpers, it also offers tons of fun including one of the most sought-after winter events found only in six or so other places around the world…the Human Dog Sled Race! As a beloved tradition at Jumpfest, this year’s Human Dog Sled Race is taking place on Friday, February 2 at Satre Hill in Salisbury. The race will begin just after the Target Jumps conclude around 8:30 p.m. The ticket booth opens at 6 p.m. and that is when team members should arrive to organize their sled and confirm their registration.

If you are wondering what a Human Dog Sled Race is…think traditional dogsledding with a twist! Participating is easy. All you have to do is gather up a kennel of friends who are at least 18 years old and have a moderate level of fitness because this .3-mile snow course is not without peril. The teams consist of six people including five pulling the sled and one riding in it. 

Teams compete for trophies in men's, women's, and mixed categories. In addition to awards for those fleet of foot, a very special award is given out, the People's Choice Award for the Best Costume and Sled, making designing your sled part of the fun and challenge. Sleds can be made from just about anything that will glide over the snow track. They can be as simple as an inner tube, elaborately colorful contraptions, or techy steam-punk inventions! Let your team's imagination run wild! Many contestants dress for the occasion to raise team camaraderie. 

Registration is open through February 1; just send an email to info@jumpfest, attention Brian to enter. The fee to enter is a modest $25 that includes free entrance to Jumpfest! Proceeds benefit SWSA’s Junior Ski Programs. 

An added bonus is that Friday night of Jumpfest is an all-around great time in a beautiful alpine setting! An eighth of a mile of luminaries guides visitors to the site where there are two roaring bonfires and plenty of food and beverages to snack on. The target ski jumping and the Human Dog Sled Races are held under the lights and both are professionally announced. 

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION 

The mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint the public with Nordic ski-jumping, cross –country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment. One way of fulfilling this mission is to host the annual Jumpfest Competition on Satre Hill to sustain and ski jumping in Salisbury, Connecticut, and the Eastern United States.