Musher a weekend full of action, team spirit and dog power in the small Öschle!
Last weekend, the small Öschle became a meeting place for passionate mushers - because a very special workshop took place there! The event was organised by Clemens Hoffkamp, an experienced musher and trainer who enriches the scene in the small Öschle with his expertise, and Christof Diehl, a true icon of the pulling dog sport.
Some participants travelled with more than ten dogs - an impressive sight that not only made mushers' hearts beat faster. There was plenty of space for the four-legged friends - generous free-range areas made it possible for the dogs to let off steam away from the training sessions.
By early midday Clemens Hoffkamp diligently cordoning off the standing room areas and, together with Christof Diehl to mark out a trail for the planned mini-race. The number of participants was impressive - over 15 mushers and more than 40 dogs in total made this weekend a real highlight.
As soon as everyone had arrived, the workshop started straight away. Under the guidance of Christof Diehl, an icon of draft dog sport who can be found at major races around the world, the weekend was a veritable treasure trove of knowledge. With his years of experience and tireless passion, he shared his knowledge and gave valuable tips - the perfect mentor for all mushers who want to get to the next level.
Christof
Diehl
one
Icon of the pulling dog sport
The physical well-being
Of course, the physical well-being was not to be neglected. In the evening Beate, the good soul of the Öschle and second chairwoman of the board, treats everyone to a delicious meal. Anyone who knows her knows that when Beate cooks, everyone is well catered for!
The race
The second day started early - the first ride on the freshly marked trail was on the agenda. The teams started at different times, but then some confusion arose: A small mistake with the route markings messed up the planning. But real mushers don't let this throw them off their stride! With their experience, improvisation skills and great teamwork with their dogs, everyone found their way back safely. Time didn't matter - the focus was on fun and the shared experience.
Temperatures are an important factor in train sports
Back at the sports ground, we talked about temperatures. Although the sunny weather was fantastic for the two-legged friends, it was critical for the dogs - because from around 15 °C, pulling becomes a strain. Thanks to a co-operation with the forestry office, however, the training could continue in the cool forest. There, the „head-on passing“ was practised intensively - an exciting moment in which it became clear who was already advanced and who was still at the beginning of their mushing journey.
The breakfast
After the successful session, the long-awaited breakfast was finally waiting - a huge buffet, lovingly conjured up by Beate. The atmosphere? Cheerful, sociable, simply wonderful. Afterwards, everyone devotedly looked after their dogs - a picture that made my heart beat faster as an animal welfare officer. If all pet owners were this responsible, I wouldn't need my job!
In the afternoon Christof Diehl time for each team once again. He checked the teams and equipment, gave individual tips and even helped to fit new harnesses - because dogs and mushers can only perform at their best if the equipment fits perfectly. Just like people with well-fitting shoes!
In the late afternoon, it was time to say goodbye. However, everyone left with beaming faces and a bulging rucksack full of experiences, tips, new friendships - and unforgettable memories. A weekend in the small Öschle - full of heart, power and genuine musher passion - organised by Clemens Hoffkamp and Christof Diehl!
