Though lacking the name recognition and prestige of events such as Alaska's annual Iditarod, a race this afternoon featuring sleds of four "dogs" and a rider streaking across the Green at top speed will nonetheless have the honor of kicking off the 2003 Winter Carnival festivities.
The annual human dog sled race will begin at 3 p.m. on the Green, featuring teams of four human "dogs" dragging their sled and rider. Teams will begin the race from starting positions buried in the knee-deep snow and race to a randomly-determined midpoint and back.
The path each team takes to reach the midpoint and return to the finish line is up to the team. The team that wins each of the five heats will advance to the finals to compete for the human dog sled crown.
"Traditionally the teams wear fun and crazy costumes, and they'll do whatever it takes to win," said Sheila Chithran '05, who is organizing the race along with Zach Rubeo '05. "They dive through puddles and snow and whatever else they encounter. The race is going to stay in one quadrant of the Green, and will not cross any paths."
In years past teams have been required to construct their sleds from wood planks and skis; however, this year sleds will be provided by the event organizers.
Additionally, teams will be provided the rope with which to attach the sled to the human dogs. The method of how to best attach the rope in a safe, comfortable fashion has not yet been worked out, according to Chithran.
"We're going to decide how to attach the ropes tomorrow before the race," said Chithran, although she added that it would likely be at the discretion of the contestants.
Prizes will include gift certificates to various Hanover hotspots, such as Mojo's, Murphy's on the Green and Ben and Jerry's. The winners of the race will receive gift certificates, and runners-up may also receive them as well, according to organizers.
The race is the first of a number of events scheduled for Winter Carnival weekend. Opening ceremonies will be held today at 7 p.m., and will feature an athlete's parade, a cappella peformances and an appearance by College President James Wright.
