Spirit of the North dogsledding scheduled for Asessippi

Details

Published on Monday, September 21, 2015

By Greg Nesbitt

Submitted article

Manitoba’s premiere ski resort is offering another attraction for guests this winter. Asessippi Ski Area & Resort northwest of Russell has teamed up with Bluesky Expeditions of Churchill to offer an authentic dogsledding experience.

Gerald Azure, an internationally-renowned musher, has operated his dog sled business in Churchill since 2001. Recognized by thousands of tourists and media from all over the world, he has an inherent gift of celebrating his aboriginal culture and sharing valuable "sled dog philosophy" based on kindness and respect for everyone he crosses paths with, especially his dogs.

“A dogsled ride with Bluesky Expeditions can teach you valuable lessons about life’s challenges, and take you on a step back in time,” says Azure, who together with his partner Jenafor Ollander, have been working this summer to map out a trail and build kennels for the dogs at Asessippi.

The 28 sled dogs will arrive at Asessippi in early December, with training on the runs to commence soon after. Dogsledding for the public will begin during the Christmas season and continue until early March, when Bluesky will return to Churchill for the spring season.

Asessippi school program manager Wanda Guay said the resort is hoping to drive traffic from schools and groups, but adds that initial public reaction has been very positive in that it is a unique experience that isn’t normally offered anywhere in the southern areas.Guests will purchase tickets and be assigned a timeslot for the experience, which will begin with an orientation in a tent just below the Squirrel (quad) chairlift. Two or three guests, depending on their size and weight, will be able to go on each sled.

“The orientation will inform guests of Métis traditions, living on the land, Churchill life and working together as a dog team,” says Guay. “The tent will feature Métis and Churchill décor – all educational and interactive.”

Azure is a co-founder of the annual Hudson Bay Quest, one of the most challenging dog sled races between Churchill and Arviat, Nunavut. He has been recognized for his accomplishments and contributions to dog sledding in the Churchill area by Travel Manitoba Tourism awards and Manitoba Hydro, Spirit of the Earth awards.

Azure retired from distance racing in December 2007, choosing to focus more time and energy on his dogsled business and quality time with his dogs and family.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact Guay at 1-888-564-2001, extension 101.