Saturday we showed up at the Purity Spring Sled Dog Race Classic in Madison, NH. Maddie and Dylan took a sled dog clinic last week at the adjoining King Pine Ski area, where they learned the basics of operating a sled, hooking up the dogs, and more importantly, how to stop! So, on Saturday they had a sign-up for the kids, and the first twenty could actually get a chance to run (actually, be towed might be more accurate) in a one dog race! Dylan was thirteenth in line (Maddie opted out of the racing part), but somehow didn’t make it in. But that wasn’t about to stop my Mom (thanks Mom!) from making sure that her Grandson got his place on the starting line…that’s a story for another day, but our sincerest thanks go out to local dog sledding hero Bruce Crowther, and Gretchen Karlson of Karlson Kennels, Concord, MA for lending Dylan not only their team leader, Squeaky (I apologize Squeaky, if I’m not spelling your name right) and a sled, but also their time and expertise in getting Dyl ready to roll (I mean, slide). He had a blast and so did we! Here are some shots Tay and I took…
Yes, their eyes are that blue!
After racing 12 miles, they’re just a bit tuckered out on the home stretch…but still workin’ it.
Nothin’ like a good old Dodge to get yer dogs to the race on time!
This next photo is one of my top 3 faves, I think. I swear I did not Photoshop the expression on that dog’s face (I didn’t even know a dog was physically capable of doing that). It’s priceless…way too funny, but I promise she is not choking him!
Another classic from Tay:
The kids have a go…I think it’s great that the kids can get involved in this great sport at such a young age…with or without a sled!
Pre-race pep talk:
…and she’s ready to go.
One of the things I love about photography is the story you sometimes find in your photos only after you take them. This little guy was doing his darnedest to keep his dog motivated…the dog, feeling a bit social I guess, stopped off to say hello to the spectators:
Oh well…
Ok, you definitely deserve some lap time…
Dylan finally gets his chance:
The End.
Contact Birch Blaze about shooting your wedding! :: Learn more about Birch Blaze Studios’ Lifestyle Portraiture… :: Birch Blaze on Facebook
by birch
12 comments
Martha Heckman - The New England Sled Dog Club is having it’s spring meeting on 4/26 (see details at http://www.nesdc.org) and we would like to invite you come an set up a slide show on a lap top of your Purity Springs photos. Bring order forms if you like. the photo essay is super,btw.
Martha Heckman
birch - Hi Judy,
Great to hear from you! I’m glad you liked the photos. Taylor took that great close-up shot of the Dog in the enclosure. As far as cameras, I was using a Sony a700, and Tay was using a Canon 5D. They’re both great cameras, but the 5D is the king of shallow depth-of-field.
Kerry
Judy - Hi guys, love the pictures…personally I think the best shot is the close up on the eye. It looks like you can see another dog reflected in the eye.
What are you shooting with?
Judy
Kelli Young - Hi guys!
I’m so impressed! The pics. are gorgeous, I feel like I was there with you. You’re ready for National Geographic! Love, Kelli
Gretchen Karlson - Kerry,
Wow, what a website! Thank you for the beautiful pictures of Atka in the dog box (the one with blue eyes) and the beautiful pictures of Squeaky. I hope Dylan had a ball. The sport of sled dog racing is indeed incredible.
Gretchen Karlson
June Phillips - These photographs are fabulous. So clear and full of action. they tell a wonderful story. I can’t wait to have you photograph my place and food!!!
I don’t know how to blog yet so you’re early to the party as far as i am concerned. Must get my party hat and dress on and join!
June
YaYa - Terrific shots! What a day; Bruce & Gretchen were such generous folks to help Dylan get outfitted for the race.
Good job, guys!
Peter Franke - REALLY NICE SHOTS!
Peter
Jess - Hey, Kerry. I’m in love with your website. You and Taylor take incredible pictures. I hope to be as good as you two someday. I’ll definitely be checking in. And by the way, you’re a wicked good speaker. I loved reading that blog. :)
Lori Lower - Thanks for sharing. I really enjoyed that. I will mark this and check from time to time.
Take care,
Lori
Deb - I’m so glad you guys started this. As a fellow photograghy lover, I’m looking forward to seeing what you’re able to capture. Keep ‘em coming!
Shawn - Some unbelievable shots there you guys! Excellent work!