Results Today from Synaptic on Fri 01-Dec at 07:31 pm - #209 Nic and Ebi (Canicross Zone 4) 75.2 race and 845 league points. #103 Justine Nellie and Boof (Canicross Zone 5) 73.4 race and 830 league points. #206 Mike and Doris (Canicross Zone 9) 78.5 race and 873 league points. #59 Anna Bob and Willow (Canicross Zone 5) 69.3 race and 778 league points. #217 Sam and Archie (Canicross Zone 10) 74 race and 830 league points. #178 Ian and Sage (Canicross Zone 5) 72.5 race and 834 league points...#60 Mandy Florrie and Reva (CaniTrek) 71.4 points. #96 Elizabeth and Winnie (CaniTrek) 70.5 points. #98 Sacha and Robin (CaniTrek) 65.6 points. #88 Fiona and Hector (CaniTrek) 64.1 points. #208 Suzanne Luca and Eva (CaniTrek) 68.6 points...No Bikejör or Scooter results yet ...No CaniSwim results yet    Results Yesterday (Thu 30-Nov) from Synaptic - #178 Ian and Sage (Canicross Zone 6) 76.2 race and 856 league points. #89 Iain and Jet (Canicross Zone 5) 77.4 race and 872 league points. #106 Susan Jack and Claire (Canicross Zone 4) 76.5 race and 859 league points. #164 Kirsten and Finn (Canicross Zone 5) 70.2 race and 834 league points. #117 Abi and Jambo (Canicross Zone 3) 72.7 race and 823 league points. #90 Donna Maisie and Finn (Canicross Zone 5) 76.3 race and 858 league points. #90 Donna Maisie and Finn (Canicross Zone 3) 70.6 race and 811 league points. #44 Alison Zac and Olly (Canicross Zone 7) 76.8 race and 868 league points. #205 Susan and Mindy (Canicross Zone 7) 75.5 race and 857 league points. #94 Sarah and Tiggy (Canicross Zone 6) 73.3 race and 835 league points...#88 Fiona and Hector (CaniTrek) 64.6 points. #208 Suzanne Luca and Eva (CaniTrek) 67 points. #96 Elizabeth and Winnie (CaniTrek) 75 points. #60 Mandy Florrie and Reva (CaniTrek) 73.2 points...No Bikejör or Scooter submissions...No CaniSwim submissions
Today's interview is with Al Mathers. Al has 2 dogs Erik a Border Collie & Daisy a GSD and is currently running in great form. Like a few of us, Al last year had to cope with Daisy having  cruciate surgery. But thanks in part to canicross as well as Al's care she is back to full speed and health. Al is a seasoned runner in cross country and orienteering disciplines who fell upon the sport of canicross about four years ago and has been hooked ever since. Regularly enjoying the open moors of North Yorkshire and Teesdale with Erik and Daisy.
 
 
Q1. So the first thing is what do you like about canicross ?
 
A1. The close bond it had created between myself and my dogs combined with the obvious sheer excitement it generates even just by bringing out their running harnesses, they automatically know it’s time for us to go and do something fun together.
 
Q2. So the next question is easy, what are the things you don't like about canicross ?
 
A2. The perceived negativity from people who know nothing of the sport who comment that it’s cheating and think in some way it’s an easier form of running! Or at the other end of the spectrum those seasoned canicrossers who take it all a little too seriously and loose sight of the fun aspect.
 
Q3. What are  your canicross ambitions for the future ?
 
A3. I enjoy helping others to experience the sport of canicross. Having recently completed a K9 First Aid course and regularly helping out on social runs I plan to complete an instructor/coach qualification to better my personal knowledge and to improve the experience I can offer others. I would also like to try the TDM in France (maybe one for next year).
 
Q4. What are your thoughts approaching our first World Cup, and competing at an international level ?
 
A4. Having competed in previous league knockouts I know what’s coming! So a mixture of excitement and nervousness, it will be a tough one this year but the handicap system will make it an interesting one that’s for sure.
 
Q5. What strategies do you think you will use during the tournament ?
 
A5. No strategy at all, we will just go for our run and do the best we can. If I’m not quite feeling it or the dogs are a bit off - who cares, we’re out there running through the forest and having fun that’s all that matters to me and I’m sure that’s all my two lunatics care about as well.
 
Q6. What do you think the secret is to winning a knockout ?
 
A6. Find a route that’s free from obstacles and at a time that’s free from interference (dogs & people) and above all run to the point of vomiting 🤢, then make sure that each subsequent run in the competition is equal to of greater in exertion - physical effort and mental strength will win!
 
Q7. How do you think you will prepare both mentally and physically for competing in a tough knockout competition ?
 
A7. Maintaining decent Hydration, conducting a good thorough warm up (human and dog) plenty of post run stretching and to remember that it’s only fun!
 
Q8. Are there other questions we should have asked that you would have liked us to ask ? If so what are they and what would be the answer(s)?
 
A8. What’s your favourite post run treat? Personally I love a cup of strong (builders) tea, and a “generous” handful of biscuits 😋 why not I’ve earned it!
The dogs get a couple of dried Sprats 🐟🐟