Ep 219: Canicross Story: Saxo and Katrine

Ever felt like you're the only person in your area who does canicross? Katrine knows exactly how that feels.

Originally from Denmark and now living in Norway, Katrine had never heard the word canicross until she adopted Saxo, a gentle black Labrador who came to her at 10 months old, barely used to walking on a lead. With no club, no running buddies and no one to ask, she researched it all herself and just got going.

Three and a half years later, she's racing, building her own local canicross group from scratch, and training for a half marathon across a frozen Swedish lake.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Katrine about:

Why canicross is surprisingly small in Norway, even though it's home to Non-stop dogwear

Starting out alone with a FreeMotion harness and a lot of online research

Her first proper canicross race: first off the line, the only Lab among a row of hounds, and a 3K PB

The moment she realised Saxo wasn't a "non-pulling dog." If she picks up the pace, he goes. If she backs off, so does he.

How listening to the podcast inspired her to add strength training, a weekly solo interval session and a look at her nutrition

Starting a Facebook canicross group, running an info evening and getting the local paper interested

Why newcomers find canicross scary, and how she reassures nervous runners and owners of reactive dogs

Running through Norwegian winters at minus 20, using dog boots, and plans for snowshoe cani-trekking