Ridgeway Canicross is home to the fastest and most adventurous Canicross runs around. This is not the all too common ‘dog jog with coffee and cake’. This is challenging Canicross for dedicated runners that will include stiles, rivers, technical and hilly terrain. Just as it should!
Please read the qualifying criteria below which applies to Group Runs (only).
Watch for group run opportunities in the Ridgeway Canicross Facebook Group.
Group run FAQs
How old must my dog be?
Smaller dog’s bodies mature faster than those of larger breeds so you need to consider your own situation carefully. In a accordance with Canicross best practice all dogs must be over 12 months of age before joining a Ridgeway Canicross run. That doesn’t mean you can’t start your training now though, there are commands and skills that can (and should) be learned on a lead long before your dog wears a harness.
Do I need to have Canicross Kit?
Not always. If you can meet the pace standards we can generally find a spare belt and a line for you. For your dog, we have a selection of medium sized (Collie to Pointer) harnesses to try. If all else fails any rear fastening harness will be fine for you to try Canicross. Please don’t be offended if we check non-canicross kit for dog welfare purposes.
Do I need any special running kit
Yes. Our runs are all predominantly off-road and can be extremely muddy. You will need trail shoes with grip suitable for muddy conditions. We won’t shy away from poor weather either so a good ‘ultra style’ lightweight jacket would be good investment.
Can I free-run my dog?
Opportunities to free-run dogs do arise and runs that are particularly suitable for free running will be described as ‘mixed canicross’. Please do note that our priority will always be to run dogs on a line though.
Do I need to be fast? (Qualifying Criteria)
For group runs yes but not for social runs, beginner or improver sessions. Dean & Millie are quite quick on their feet (which allows us to work with almost everyone) but you don’t always have to be.
The following qualifying criteria applies to Ridgeway Canicross group runs. You need to have the right canicross kit for you and your dog (loaned kit is fine). You also need to be comfortable moving over mixed terrain at an average of 12 minute mile/7:30 min per km for 10km. If you aren’t sure, then get in touch for a bespoke session and we will work out if our group sessions would suit you.
Note that paces will vary for longer routes, difficult terrain or extreme weather but the 10k standard is used as our core metric.
Can I run without a dog?
Of course. Whilst our background is firmly Canicross running we regularly welcome non-dog owners on our runs.
Is there a charge?
Ridgeway Canicross is free to join and there are no charges for any activity. Our only request is that you have suitable insurance for you and your dog beforehand.
My question isn’t covered here?
Get in touch through facebook or the contact us page; I’m sure we can help.
Ridgeway Canicross 