About the Musher: Blake Freking, Finland, MN (USA)
Q: How many dogs do you have?
A: Right now we have 60 adults and puppies.
Q: How old were you when you started using dogs to pull a sleigh?
A: I started skijouring when I was about 19. I didn’t graduate to a sled until I was 26.
Q: What commands do you use to instruct your dogs, and what do the commands mean?
A: I use Gee, Haw and Whoa… Gee= turn right Haw= turn left Whoa doesn’t mean anything to the dogs, they prefer not to listen to that one.
Q: How fast can you go on a dog sled?
A: Only as fast as your dogs and honestly, I’ve never run them at full speed.
Q: Do you have a favourite dog on your team? If so, do you keep it a secret from the other dogs?
A: I do, but Yes, it’s a secret. His name is Eagle and he is amazing.
Q: If I was going to become a musher, what is the most important thing I would need to know?
A: Be patient, be kind, and love your dogs! They will love you back and perform their best!
Q: What has been your happiest moment while out with your dogs?
A: My happiest moments are finishing a race with tails wagging on happy dogs.
Q: What do you feed your dogs? Have you ever tasted dog food? Would you taste it if you were dared?
A: I feed Kibble and meat. Beef, chicken, beaver and horse mostly. Yes, I have tasted dog food, its delicious and I would eat almost anything on a dare…
Q: Are you good with other animals?
A: I grew up with cattle, pigs, dogs and cats. I think I’m good with all of them except the cats, we don’t understand each other.