TAHQUAMENON COUNTRY SLED DOG RACE

Entry Form, Release and Indemnity Agreement

 

                In consideration of my participation in the Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race to be held on January 7, 2012, sponsored and managed by TCSDR Inc., whose address is 6401 CR 441, Newberry, MI 49868, and the use of land owned by The Nature Conservancy, a non-profit District of Columbia corporation, the use of land owned by Heartwood Forestland Fund IV LP, Heartwood Forestland Advisors IV LLC and The Forestland Group LLC, the use of land owned by Plum Creek Timberlands LP, Plum Creek Timber Company Inc. and their subsidiaries and/or affiliates, the use of land owned by State of Michigan and the use of private land, in connection with the event on that date and practice on the race course in advance of the race, and in recognition of the fact that in such participation and the use of such facilities, injuries may occur, I do hereby covenant with The Nature Conservancy, a non-profit District of Columbia corporation, Heartwood Forestland Fund IV LP, Heartwood Forestland Advisors IV LLC and The Forestland Group LLC, Plum Creek Timberlands LP, Plum Creek Timber Company Inc., State of Michigan, all private landowners, and the TCSDR, Inc., that I will never sue or bring legal action or proceeding against them, or their respective officers, employees or agents, for or on account of any injury or damage sustained by me, which I have now or may have against them, their respective officers, employees or agents, or any nature, arising out of the Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race or the use of the land owned or managed by the above named entities whether arising within the confines of the event or elsewhere, or for any claim or demand I have or may have against them, their respective officers, employees or agents, of any nature arising out of any such injury, and this Release and Indemnity Agreement may be presented as a complete defense to any action or other proceeding which may be brought, instituted or taken by me, or my legal representatives, against the above named entities, their respective officers, employees or agents.

                This covenant not to sue is executed by me not in satisfaction of any damages sustained, nor as compensation for injuries, nor in settlement for any claim for damages: but rather is in sole consideration of my participation in the Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race and the use of the land owned or managed by the above named entities.

                I further hereby covenant to indemnify and save harmless the above named entities and private land owners, their respective officers, employees and agents, against any claim for damages, compensation, or otherwise on the part of me, my heirs, executors, or administrators, and to reimburse or make good any loss or damages or costs that the aforesaid indemnities may have to pay if any litigation arises on account of any claims made by me or anyone in my behalf.  I agree to be responsible for my conduct and that of my helpers and my dogs.  I understand and agree to run the race under TCSDR rules and shall abide by any official decisions made at the race.

 

Signed this _____________ day of _____________________, 20__.

 

Driver Signature: _________________________________________________________

 

Driver Name: (PRINT)____________________________________________________________

 

Address:______________________________________City________________________State_______Zip_______

 

Phone:__________________________

 

Kennel Name _________________________________________________________________

 

Kennel Address:_________________________________City______________________State_______Zip_______

 

E-mail address_____________________________________________________________

 

Phone Number ____________________________     Class Entering _______________________________

 

Signature of Dog Owner:_________________________________________

 

Signature of Guardian if musher under 18:_________________________________

 

Additional Brunch Tickets needed: ______  (Race entry includes one ticket for Awards Brunch  at 9 am, Sunday January 8th.  Additional brunch tickets are $8.00 for adults, $4.00 for children under 12.)

 

Total Amount Enclosed _______________

 

Mail to: Dave Dake, 6401 CR 441, Newberry, MI 49868.  Please make checks payable to TCSDR INC.

Entry Fees: 12 Dog Pro Entry $130.00; 8 Dog Pro-$95.00; 6 Dog Sportsman -$40.00; 19-Mile Skijoring - $40.00; 4 Dog Sport (ages 13 and up)-$30.00, 2 or 3 Dog youth (ages 12 and under) -$30.00. 1-2 Dog Skijoring-$30.00. Full refund, less $10 cancellation fee, if request received by 01-01-12.  No refunds after 01-01-11.  ENTRIES MUST BE POSTMARKED BY DECEMBER 31st, 2011.  NO LATE ENTRIES. NO EXCEPTIONS.  Questions? Contact Dave at 906-293-2917, or email info@tcsdr.org

 

 

Musher Biography Sheet—please return with your entry form.  Thanks!

 

We will be submitting some information to the Newberry News to help with race promotion, sponsorship requests, and community interest.  We will also be providing this information to our race announcer so spectators know a little more about our mushers.  Please return the following information with your entry.  Thanks!!

 

 

Name ____________________________________Hometown/State_______________

 

Age:____________________

 

Kennel Name __________________________________________

 

Number of Years Mushing:______________________

 

0ccupation:___________________________________

 

Race history and Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race history.

 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________

 

What attracts you to this race?

 

______________________________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________________________

 

Leader names on your team:

 

_______________________________________________________________

 

Describe your best day mushing:

 

______________________________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Any sponsors you’d like to have mentioned _________________________________________

 

 

Thank you!! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RULES & POLICIES OF THE TAHQUAMENON COUNTRY SLED DOG RACE

 

Rules approved June 15, 2007

Minor corrections and revisions November 23, 2010

 

I.  GENERAL RULES

A. Entries, fees and refunds shall be in accordance with promotional materials and newsletters.

1.        The Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race reserves the right to reject an entry for any reason.

B. MUSHERS

1.        Mushers under the age of eighteen may participate with a waiver of liability signed by a parent or legal guardian.

2.        Mushers under the age of thirteen need special permission from the Chief Race Judge or the Race Director to participate in any class except for the youth two/three dog class. 

3.        Only one musher per team is permitted and no substitution will be allowed during the race.

4.        Substitutions of mushers will be allowed up to the beginning of the mandatory drivers meeting with the approval of the Chief Race Judge.

5.        All mushers must attend the mandatory drivers meeting unless they obtain approval from the Chief Race Judge.

C. DOGS

1.        Each twelve dog pro team must start the race with a minimum of nine dogs and must finish the race with a minimum of five dogs standing in harness crossing the finish line.

2.        Each eight dog pro team must start the race with a minimum of six dogs and must finish the race with a minimum of four dogs standing in harness crossing the finish line.

3.        Each six dog team must start the race with a minimum of five dogs and must finish the race with a minimum of four dogs standing in harness crossing the finish line.

4.        Each four dog sportsman team must start and finish with not more than four and not less than three dogs.

5.        Each youth two/three dog team must start and finish with not more than three and not less than two dogs.

6.        Each 19-mile skijoring team must start and finish with not more than four and not less than two dogs.  Each 8-mile skijoring team must start and finish with not more than two and not less than one dog.

D. DOGS AND RECORDS

1.        All dogs entered in the race must be current with vaccinations for parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. Mushers should be prepared to provide the receipt or other means of proof of purchase of vaccines.

2.        Proof of valid rabies vaccination from the mushers state of residence signed by a licensed veterinary at least two weeks prior to the race.

3.        Only dogs found to be in good health and fit to compete will be permitted to run this race.

4.        After the start of the race no switching of dogs will be permitted.

E. DRUG USE

1.        No injectable, oral, or topical drug which may suppress the signs of illness or injury may be used on a dog. A musher may not inject any substance into their dogs. No other drugs or artificial means may be used to drive a dog or cause a dog to perform or attempt to perform beyond its natural ability.

2.        The musher may administer the following compounds to their dogs orally without veterinary consent: vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, enzymes, probiotics, and any dietary supplements marked as such, provided that these compounds are maintained in their original containers with labels indicating the contents.

3.        The administration of any substance to a dog orally by syringe or similar device (basting) by a musher is prohibited. The administration of any substance to a dog by syringe and needle by a musher is prohibited.

4.        The following drugs are prohibited.

a.        Anabolic steroids

b.       Analgesics (pain relievers) both prescriptive and non prescriptive.

c.        Anti-inflammatory drugs, including but not limited to: cortico-steroids (the exception is the use on the feet). Antiprostaglandins, Non-steroidal (NSAIDS), Salicylates, DMSO.

d.       Anesthetics

e.        Central nervous system stimulants

f.         Antihistamines

g.       Bronchodilators

h.       Cough suppressants

i.         Diuretics

j.         Injectable anticholinergics

k.        Muscle relaxants

l.         Tranquilizers and opiates


 

5.        Algyval use: a. Lame Dogs: The use of Algyval on any lameness is prohibited unless the following criteria are met: 1) Consultation with and examination of lame dog by a race vet. 2) deemed appropriate for treating the lameness by a race veterinarian. b. The use of Algyval as a part of the mushers normal dog care shall be permitted unless it violates part 5 a. This includes use under the wrist wraps, shoulders, etc.

6.        The Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race reserves the right to collect blood and /or urine samples, at the direction of the Chief Veterinarian, at random at any time up to the beginning of the awards ceremony.

7.        The use of topical cortico-steroids is limited to use on the paw/pad. The only cortico-steroids containing topical products permitted for this race will be those dispensed by the Chief Race Vet.

8.        The use of megesterol acetate (ovaban) and mibolerone (cheque drops) is permitted in intact females that have not had an ovariohysterectomy.

9.        The practice of blood doping, i.e. injection of whole blood, packed blood cells, or substitutes is prohibited.

F. EQUIPMENT

1.        All harnesses must be padded around the neck and chest areas.

2.        All ganglines must be arranged for single or double file disposition. Cable ganglines are optional but recommended for the ten-twelve dog class.

3.        A sled must be equipped with a working brake bolted to the sled, brush bow, and snow hook.

4.        A sled/dog bag capable of restraining safely a struggling or injured dog is required. (Note: Not required for four dog sportsman, 2/3 dog youth, or skijoring divisions.)

5.        All double leaders shall be connected together by a neck line.

6.        Cable neck lines are not recommended but acceptable.

G. MANDATORY GEAR (Note – Not required for the four dog sportsman, 2/3 dog youth, or skijoring divisions)

1.        One complete working headlamp.

2.        Sleeping bag.  (Winter or arctic rating preferred.)

3.        One set (4) booties per dog.

4.        Knife

5.        First aid kit (for musher and dogs) including Ace bandages and pressure dressings to stop bleeding.

6.        A cable cutter you know will cut your cable gangline. This is only required for teams using cable ganglines or cable necklines.

7.        Compass and map of race trail.

8.        Waterproof matches or a lighter.

9.        Cable or chain drop lines for any dropped dogs.

II. OFFICIATING

A. RACE OFFICIALS

1.        The Chief Race Judge (aka Race Marshall) is in charge of all aspects of the race, including but not limited to the following: Final authority and interpretation of all rules. Final determination/alteration of race start location and race route changes. Final decision on disqualifications. Final determinations of winners and placing.

2.        The Assistant Race Judges will act as deputies of the Chief Race Judge. The Chief Race Judge will rely on the consultation of the Assistant Race Judges.

3.        The official Race Veterinarian will have final authority over the disposition over any dogs being disallowed for medical reasons.

4.        The Chief Race Judge shall consult with the Race Vet regarding any disqualification of any dog teams.

5.        Discontinuing the race prior to all mushers completing the course that desire to shall require a unanimous decision of all Race Judges and the Race Director.

B. MUSHER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

1.        Mushers are responsible for the conduct of their dogs, handlers and representatives during and after the race.

2.        The musher is required to report all violations of race rules and regulations to the Chief Race Judge or an Assistant Race Judge.

3.        Any musher who knowingly fails to comply with all race rules and regulations will face disqualification, monetary penalty, or time penalty depending on the nature of the violation as determined by the Chief Race Judge.

4.        No open cans or bottles of alcoholic beverage shall be permitted at the race site, which includes the race trails and the starting area parking lot.

C. PENALTIES, DISQUALIFICATION, AND PROTEST PROCEDURES

  1. Penalties and Disqualification: Rule infractions may result in an issuance of warning, time penalties, censure, or disqualification. Any race judge may issue warnings. Time penalties and censures require a majority decision of the judges. Disqualifications require a unanimous decision of all Race Judges. The Chief Race Vet shall be included in all cases involving cruel or inhumane treatment.

 

  1. Disqualifications: Mushers shall be disqualified for any infractions, including but not limited to physical abuse of a dog, cheating, or deliberate rule infractions that give a musher an unfair advantage over another musher. 

a.        A musher will be allowed to continue racing while a decision is being made in cases involving cruel or inhumane treatment.

b.       Disqualification will result in the forfeiture of all race placements and monetary prizes.

  1. Protests: Any musher wishing to lodge a protest must do so verbally at the first opportunity following the occurrence of the act or situation to be considered. A. All protests shall be lodged with a race judge only and shall not be discussed with other persons, including spectators or media. B. Following the verbal notification, a written protest must be submitted to the Chief Race Judge. C. Protests will be decided by race judges.
  2. A musher may appeal any decision of the Chief Race Judge by submitting a written appeal. An appeals board is comprised of the Chief or Head Veterinarian and the two assistant race judges.

 

III. THE RACE

A. START/FINISH

1.   At the race start, all mushers, handlers, and team trucks must be in the official parking area at the specific time and location to be announced at the mushers meeting.. At that time each dog team; sled and mandatory gear must be available for inspection.

2.   A team finish time is measured when the lead dog crosses the finish line. A. Should any of the mandatory gear be missing a thirty-minute penalty will be added to the finish time for each item missing. B. Expendable or consumable gear (e.g. booties, food) need not be present at the finish line.

B. OUTSIDE ASSISTANCE

1.  No outside assistance is permitted during the race except under emergency conditions.

2.  Mushers may aid each other in appropriate ways under emergency conditions.

3.  Outside assistance with repair to broken or destroyed equipment is allowed.

4.  Mushers may receive assistance in cases of uncontrolled or lost dog teams.

5.  Dog trucks and/or handlers are allowed only at the official parking area unless the team has officially scratched from the race.

C. HANDLING AND TREATMENT OF DOGS.

1.    The cruel and/or inhumane treatment of dogs by any musher or handler is strictly prohibited.

2.        In the event a team gets away from the musher, it will not be disqualified if they have not left the race course. If the team and the musher have left the race course, they must re-enter the course at the point they left it.

3.        All dogs on a team must be in harness and attached to the sled. A. No loose leaders will be permitted. B. A musher must make every effort to secure a dog which becomes loose accidentally. A musher is disqualified if they are unable to regain control of his or her loose dog.  Any dogs left at any point on the race trail other than at an official dog drop location shall be cause for disqualification.

4.        EXPIRED DOGS: Any dog expired on the trail must be covered and transported to the finish line, at which time the driver shall report it first to the Chief Race Judge. The musher must then complete a report and present it to the Chief Race Vet. All expired dogs will be necropsied by the Chief Race Vet. The death of a dog may result in the disqualification of a musher.

D. THE RACE COURSE

1.    When overtaking another team, the musher must call “TRAIL” A. The slower team must relinquish the trail and assist the passing team if necessary. B. When neither team is able to pull away from the other, the mushers shall agree which is the appropriate team to lead out. C. If ski poles are being used, when trail is called both mushers must stow all ski poles either on or in the sled

2.        No-Man’s-Land starts approximately one mile from the finish line and will be well marked. Mushers no longer have the option to call trail nor will mushers be required to relinquish the trail. Ski poles and other poling aids are not allowed in No-Man’s-Land.

3.        Mushers shall not place or leave litter on the race trail.