Call the Dogs!

The equestrian and fox hunting trails weaving through the Middleton Place grounds will open to the public for a rare event on Sunday, October 26: Running with the Hounds. But it isn’t the hunt-themed affair you may be imagining. No, this 5K race revolves around canicross, in which a human and canine run together, connected by a tandem harness.

The practice was developed in Europe among man-and-dog teams who compete in sports like sledding, but it’s gaining popularity in America. “To our knowledge, there is one other canicross event in the continental U.S.—in Colorado,” notes race director Rebecca Gosnell. “Not many people in this area are well trained for it, but that’ll be part of the fun.”

In addition to the canicross competition, there are other 5K options for those with and without pooches: timed trail runs, a fun run, and a trail walk. From 2 to 6:30 p.m., the Huck Finn Village will offer activities like raft-building, kayaking, and a kids’ steeplechase to entertain the whole family (it’s free for those registered to walk or run; $10 for those who aren’t). And after the 3 p.m. races, there will be food trucks, a doggy splash zone, a lakeside pet expo, and more.

To find more info and purchase tickets ($30-$25 runs; $20 walk; $10 non-runner activity bracelet) for the event at Middleton Equestrian Center, 4280 Ashley River Rd., click here.

For more events coming up this weekend, click here.