BSSF Thetford Forest
Sat 18th January '25
- Sun 19th Jan '25
Location Info
Thetford Forest isn’t just a haven for walkers and wildlife, it’s also a key venue for sled dog racing in the UK. Its vast 18,730 hectares of forest tracks, heathland, and shaded pine trails create ideal conditions for dryland sled dog events, where teams of huskies and other sled dog breeds race on wheeled rigs rather than snow.
Events held here attract competitors from across the UK and Europe. The forest’s well-maintained trail network and natural terrain provide a safe, exciting, and scenic environment for both competitive racing and recreational mushing.
During race weekends, visitors can expect to see everything from elite sprint teams to junior and novice classes, as well as opportunities to learn more about the sport, meet mushers, and experience the unique bond between humans and their dogs.
As with all events in Thetford Forest, marshals and safety signage are in place to ensure a smooth and responsible experience for everyone involved.
Course Description
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Directions
Thetford Forest is located on the border of Norfolk and Suffolk in the heart of Breckland in East Anglia. Major roads leading to Thetford Forest are the M11 from London, the A11 from Norwich or Newmarket and the A14 from Cambridge or Ipswich.
Recomended map – Ordnance Survey Explorer 229 – Thetford Forest in the Brecks.
BSSF
The British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF) stands as the UK’s premier organization for advancing sled dog sports both domestically and internationally. Founded by athletes from various disciplines, the organization promotes sled dog racing while maintaining high standards of animal welfare. As a full member of the International Federation of Sleddog Sports (IFSS), the BSSF facilitates UK teams’ participation in European and World events while working with organizations to host competitions and provide training programs.
The sport of canicross emerged through the skijor community as athletes sought to maintain their dogs’ fitness during snowless months. The inaugural UK race in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, organized by Nicky & Iain Hutchinson and Matt Hammersley, attracted more than 25 competitors across Canicross, Scooter, and Bikejor categories. The sport has since flourished, with some races drawing over one hundred participants.
The BSSF’s commitment to inclusivity supports all levels of participation, from beginners to elite athletes. Newcomers require basic equipment: a dog running belt, a sprung lead measuring 1-2 meters, and an appropriate working harness. Through their mapping system, interested participants can locate local clubs and begin their journey in sled dog sports, starting with short runs and basic directional training.
Event Completed
Start Date
Saturday 18th January '25
End Date
Sunday 19th January '25
Event Length
2 days
Upcoming BSSF events
December 2026
BSSF Round 1
Sat 5th Dec '26- Sun 6th Dec '26
January 2027
BSSF Round 2
Sat 23rd Jan '27- Sun 24th Jan '27
March 2027
BSSF Round 3
Sat 13th Mar '27- Sun 14th Mar '27