The race is on to be the leader of the pack in the Island’s first ever ‘canicross’ event – that’s dog owners cross-country running with their pets. The Children’s Centre has teamed up with the MSPCA to organise a fun day for all ages at Archallagan Plantation on Sunday March 22, with all proceeds being split equally between both charities.

The ‘Paws In The Plantation Canicross’ event promises to be a great day out for all the family with a series of five fun runs starting with a 1km event for children aged seven to 11. Then there’s a run over the same distance for 11 to 14-year-olds, followed by three more races all covering 5km – one for the 15 to 39-year-old age group; one for 40 to 49-year-olds; and then the last race for the over 50s.

There’s no age limit for canine athletes – but organisers advise that dogs should be one year old before doing too much exercise to ensure that they have grown sufficiently. However, larger breeds may need to be a little older. If you have any doubts about your dog’s ability to take part, please consult your vet beforehand.

Lisa Motley, Endurance Events Fundraiser at The Children’s Centre, said:

“Canicross is already a popular activity in the UK, but this will be the first time an event has been held in the Isle of Man. In addition to raising funds for two great charities, we also hope that the event will encourage more pet owners to run or jog with their dogs. It’s a great activity with health benefits for owners and pets. Regular exercise means that dogs will be happier, more content, and the bond between owner and their pet will be stronger. On average, fit and healthy dogs live two years longer than those that don’t get regular exercise.”

Margaret Mansfield from ManxSPCA agrees, and added:

“Dog walking is a great exercise and encourages bonding between owner and pet. We hope that the publicity generated by this event will encourage people to join us as volunteer dog walkers, or perhaps even adopt a dog from the sanctuary. It’s great to be working in collaboration with another local charity and we hope this will be the first of many such activities.”

To enter the event go to www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/events/ – or for more details contact Lisa Motley by phoning 676076 or emailing LisaMotley@thechildrenscentre.org.im.

Entry costs ?10 for under 17-year-olds, and ?20 for competitors aged 17 and over.

Closing date for entries is March 18.

Photo - Phil Motley (left) and Alex Henderson, aged 14, and their dogs get in some training for the canicross event.