Jessica leads the way in Husky challenge

Jessica Wright, 14, of Conisbrough, pictured with Huskies Kara, Maya and Star. Picture: Marie Caley S0298MC

Published on 04/11/2012 06:00

DOG-mad Jessica Wright is going for the big win this weekend, with the husky team she bought for herself.

Fourteen-year old Jess, of Acacia Grove, Conisbrough, will sled-race her Siberian huskies after claiming a runner-up title in her debut qualifier last season.

The De Warennes Academy pupil saved her paper round cash to buy two Siberian huskies, Maya and Star, for £650 - had the third, Kara, bought as a birthday present - then got all three qualified for Crufts this year with titles in their first shows.

Not only that, she is virtually self-taught, with support from her friend Kirsty Price, and has been picked out as ‘one to watch’ by seasoned racers.

This weekend she will be competing at Delamore Forest in Cheshire, before going on to take part in events in Suffolk and Scotland.

She hooked her once-reluctant family in to racing, and now mum Val, dad Peter and even grandparents Alan and Maureen Jones trail out to see her in action.

“Jessica had to wait years to get her dogs but she was determined, and although we said we never would, we’ve now got a van to transport them, and they’ve kind of taken over our lives,” laughed Val.

“Jess is a junior this season, but she hopes to go on to professional racing. Her main ambition is to be a vet.

“It’s a weird experience when you go and see hundreds of dogs all lined up...it’s quite wonderful really.”

The family also hope to take part in a sponsored charity husky walk across the Humber Bridge on December 30, to help fund holidays for the families of children with cancer. Over 100 dogs and owners have signed up to walk across the bridge in tandem, while traffic continues to use the main roadway.

“It’s a great idea,” said Val. “We’re definitely up for it and we’ve all got a head for heights, in fact my son’s a pilot.”

The family also help with the Siberian Husky Aid Rescue and Education organisation.

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Jessica leads the way in Husky challenge

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