Winter 2008 will mark the beginning of another new tradition at Purity Spring Resort/King Pine Ski Area when it plays host to the first annual "Purity Spring Sled Dog Race Classic" on the weekend of March 8 and 9.

This ISDRA sanctioned event is presented by the New England Sled Dog Club, Inc., which introduced the sport of sled dog racing to New Hampshire in 1924. The Purity Spring Classic is one of six events the NESDC will hold this season.

The public is invited to attend and cheer on their favorite teams as they compete in seven different races, ranging from 4 to 12 miles, including both adult and junior divisions. Spectators are welcome and encouraged to view the race from various vantage points, ranging from easy access points near King Pine, to scenic areas around Purity Lake that can only be reached by cross-country skis or snowshoes. Maps will be available during the event showing the various viewing locations. These maps will also be available to download online at http://www.purityspring.com/raceclassic.

Purity Spring's groomed Nordic ski trail system will set the race course for the dogs and mushers, who will start and finish near Purity Lake, across from the King Pine Ski Area. Classes held at Purity will be Ski-jor, 4-dog, 6-dog, 8-dog and a 12-mile "Open" division. Most of the races will be held around Purity Lake however, the 8-dog class and the "Open" class will go as far as Purity's Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort in Freedom, NH.

"King Pine and Purity Spring Resort are perfect venues for an event such as this," says marketing director Dan Houde. "The combination of Purity's classic Nordic trail system, plus the many lodging options available, will make this a favorite for mushers and spectators alike."

The 2-day event will run between 9 A.M. and 4 P.M. each day depending on the amount of teams registered. Food and souvenirs will be available near the start/finish line across from King Pine Ski Area. Admission to the event is free; although those wishing to view the races from along Purity's trail system will need a $5 trail pass. Cross-country and snowshoe rentals will be available at King Pine. For more information, visit http://www.purityspring.com/raceclassic or http://www.nesdc.org.

King Pine and Purity Spring Resort, located in East Madison, NH, are owned and operated by the Hoyt family and have welcomed guests since the early 1900s.