BSSF Rendlesham Forest Chamionship Rally
Sat 12th January '19
- Sun 13th Jan '19
Event Info
IP12 3NF
Location Info
Rendlesham Forest in Suffolk is a large conifer plantation managed by Forestry England. It contains wide gravel forestry roads, straight plantation corridors and denser woodland sections.
Terrain is mostly flat, shaped by the sandy soils of the wider Breckland landscape. Surfaces are predominantly firm forestry aggregate with some sandy patches under tree cover.
Course Description
Rendlesham forest was largely destroyed by the high winds of October 1987, but the new tree growth is now making the area seem more like forest again! The venue offers wonderful grass trails with short crossover sections of rounded pebbles and also some sandy stretches, and these are unspoilt by forest working – for obvious reasons.
The gently undulating terrain will be enjoyed by all. You might like to bring a compass and map for the many turns !!! Don’t let the many turns put you off, it keeps the dogs happy and adds to the fun of the Rendlesham Rally.
Directions
From The A14
Take the A12 North towards Woodbridge, (do NOT take the A12 South). At Woodbridge, follow the signs to Orford (B1084) and to Rendlesham Forest Centre. Entrance to the race site will be marked on the right hand side of the B1084 approximately 4 miles from Woodbridge.
Alternative SHCGB Route
From the A14, take the A12 North (signposted Lowestoft), after 7 miles, at roundabout, turn right, (signposted Bawdsey B1152 & Rendlesham forest Centre). Keep on road for approx. 2 miles. At roundabout turn left following Orford B1084. Stay on B1084 from approx 4 miles. Entrance to forest will be on right. You will see SHCGB signs from this point.
There is ample parking at the race site within a short distance of the start and finish area. Parking is in a pleasant open area with plenty of space for stake out. Please remember to clear up all rubbish when you leave.
BSSF
The British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF) stands as the UK’s premier organization for advancing sled dog sports both domestically and internationally. Founded by athletes from various disciplines, the organization promotes sled dog racing while maintaining high standards of animal welfare. As a full member of the International Federation of Sleddog Sports (IFSS), the BSSF facilitates UK teams’ participation in European and World events while working with organizations to host competitions and provide training programs.
The sport of canicross emerged through the skijor community as athletes sought to maintain their dogs’ fitness during snowless months. The inaugural UK race in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, organized by Nicky & Iain Hutchinson and Matt Hammersley, attracted more than 25 competitors across Canicross, Scooter, and Bikejor categories. The sport has since flourished, with some races drawing over one hundred participants.
The BSSF’s commitment to inclusivity supports all levels of participation, from beginners to elite athletes. Newcomers require basic equipment: a dog running belt, a sprung lead measuring 1-2 meters, and an appropriate working harness. Through their mapping system, interested participants can locate local clubs and begin their journey in sled dog sports, starting with short runs and basic directional training.
Event Completed
Start Date
Saturday 12th January '19
End Date
Sunday 13th January '19
Event Length
2 days
Upcoming BSSF events
December 2026
BSSF Round 1
Sat 5th Dec '26- Sun 6th Dec '26
January 2027
BSSF Round 2
Sat 23rd Jan '27- Sun 24th Jan '27
March 2027
BSSF Round 3
Sat 13th Mar '27- Sun 14th Mar '27