How many local events can you name that began 25 years ago are stiil kicking? The Paw n' Pole is a true throw-back to Ketchum/Sun Valley’s laid back, small town past. Silly, simple, and fun, the Paw n’ Pole is as casual as it comes. Heck, even the race entry price hasn't gone up much, so, what began as the Animal Shelter's primary fundraiser, is now kept alive purely as a "funraiser" to preserve Blaine County's "We love our dogs" personality.
For the few in this valley who have never been to a Paw n' Pole, here's what you can look forward to: X-C and snowshoe races with your dog on a leash! Seriously... a leash! Yep, you get tangled up and stopped for sniffing and other doggish necessities, but that's what it's all about. It’s a great way to finish up a fun Nordic weekend the day after the Janss races end, and you can and re-use your costume! Don’t have a dog? Partner up with an Animal Shelter dog, while they last. There are lots of cool prizes for several “Best Costume” categories. There’s even a “Silly Pet Tricks” contest to fill the time while the results are tallied. And, every race entry slip is entered into a raffle for a 2010-2011 Season Blaine County Nordic Trails Pass! You can also help the Animal Shelter by buying raffle entries for $10 each.
The Paw n’ Pole starts at 10 am, but registration will open by 9:30 am—maybe earlier if we get it together in time. (Told you… this event is laid back!) Plan to arrive early to register, because we have 100 commemorative “Silver Anniversary Paw n’ Pole” hats to give away free with registration while they last! These puppies (the hats, I mean) are definitely going to be local collector’s items someday.
The 2010 Paw n’ Pole is Sunday, March 7, 10:00 am at the Sun Valley Gun Club. Drive out Sun Valley Rd towards Trail Creek and watch for the signs. If snow fails us at the gun club, we might move it up the road a little... just watch for the signs and the cars. Please observe the parking signs and always keep your dog leashed, even if you dog is super-social in crowds.This year's Costume Theme is “Silver Anniversary Party.” (Costumes optional.) Admission: $5/child; $10/adult; $20 family. Each race registration fee includes one delicious Atkinson’s chili lunch, one raffle entry for a 2010 Nordic Trails Season Pass donated by Blaine County Rec., and one hat while they last! The Paw n’ Pole is truly small town fun. No glitz, easy-going and usually over by noon. There's time between races to chat with friends and pet dogs while basking in the glory of a (hopefully) beautiful, Sun Valley spring day. The Paw n' Pole is one of a kind. Spectators and photographers welcome. "You can’t call yourself a “local” until you’ve seen the Paw n’ Pole! " For more information call the Animal Shelter at 788-4351.
Any profit this event makes benefits the Animal Shelter. That said, we keep admission prices so low, there is never much profit made at the Paw n’ Pole, so please remember to donate to the privately funded Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley throughout the year, or go volunteer there. It is one of our valley’s greatest assets.
Here is my contact information: Patti
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