Melissa Turner

Hometown: Herald, CA

Kennel: Sunshine Kennels

Lead Dog's Names: Skunk, Rio, Aspen, Nash

Years Racing: 11

When and how did you get started mushing? 12 years ago I had a Newfoundland pup that was to big for his britches and needed a job. I was cruising through a dog magazine when I ran across an add for teaching your dog urban mushing. I joined the class and loved it. One of the trainers asked if I would handle for her and I said that I would love to. She also allowed be to use one of her aged out dogs as a trainer to my team of 3 Border Collies and a Newfoundland. Needless to say I was hooked.

What have been your mushing highlights? I love the sound of the dog's breath as they pull the sled through the snow working together as a team. My biggest highlight was finishing my 2nd race ever and first 100 mile race (ECX). It taught me so much about myself and about my team of dogs.

Future Goals I am retiring in the summer of the 2025 school year and would like to do some winter race traveling with a great group of dog friends.