Fakenham woman to race for Team GB in world sled dog race

But for a Norfolk woman the word husky is entwined to her chance for world championship glory.

Sophia Harris, who lives in Fakenham, will be representing Team GB at the World Sleddog Association Dryland World Championship at Haughley Park in Suffolk.

Sophia Harris with Blossom and her sister Amira (Image: Sophia Harris) READ MORE: Town's Post Office at risk of closure in national cost cutting measure

The 38-year-old will be representing her country for the first time with her husky, Blossom. 

They will go up against competitors from 15 other countries during the two-day event, which takes place on November 23 and 24.

Miss Harris has been sled dog racing for the last 10 years after she took up the sport and "absolutely loved it".

Sophia Harris said she hopes Blossom enjoys the race as well (Image: Digital Events Photography) READ MORE: Mother of three brings back Christmas joy for another year

Sophia Harris' pack of five (Image: Sophia Harris) She said: "I love spending time with the dogs. I struggle with my mental health and getting out in the forest with them has helped ground me."

Sophia Harris will be racing with Blossom on a scooter (Image: Digital Events Photography) READ MORE: NHS bosses slammed over consultation on surgery axe plan

As race day looms closer, Miss Harris said she is feeling "a bit nervous" but will be looking forward to representing Britain.

"I don't know what to expect but Blossom has been brilliant during our training so I just hope she also has a good time during the event," she said.

"The dogs help me so much and to be able to represent the country and spend time with my four-legged friends is a huge privilege." 

The first recorded sled dog race is believed to have taken place in the early 1900s.

It was also once a demonstration sport at the Winter Olympics but has never gained official status.

Miss Harris, who says her dogs "are her world", is cautious that animal welfare will not always be prioritised if the sport becomes too competitive.

She said: "My worry would be that people would care more about doing well than enjoying a sport with their dogs and in sports like ours, the animals always have to come first."