When Peter Bosold and his competitors were to start the dog sled race on Sunday at noon, the plan was for him to race with twelve dogs.
The dogs that were to take part in the race had broken free from their leashes and had started fighting. Therefore, Peter had to make do with ten dogs.
– I thought that I probably wouldn’t be among the first because I was missing two of my good dogs, says Peter.
But it didn’t work out that way. Peter first participated in dog sledding in 2012, and although he hasn't competed every year, he became Kangiata Qimussersua 14 years after his debut.
– After many years of competing, I finally won.
A touching arrival
The terrain in Tasiilaq is completely different from Kulusuk, where you often race on flat ice.
– But in Tasiilaq, it's up and down all the time. The dogs sometimes get tired, says Peter.
That wasn't the only challenge, though. Of the 13 participants, three sleds broke down along the way.
– It was a very demanding route. There was a lot of piteraq, so the snow had blown away, and there were many large rocks in various places. I almost got hurt twice, but I avoided it at the last minute. If I had hit, my sled would have been destroyed, says Peter.
Fortunately, none of the sled drivers were injured. After struggling on the route for two hours and 14 minutes, Peter reached the finish line.
– When I saw the spectators on the other side of Tasiilaq, I was very moved and almost started to cry. As I approached the finish line, I shed a small tear – of joy, of course.
He is sure that his good training has paid off.
– The older dogs remembered my training from previous years, and I used them.
How do you do it?
– That's something we keep to ourselves, says Peter Bosold with a laugh.
He wants to go to Avannaata Qimussersui
When Kangiata Qimussersua returned home to Kulusuk today, Monday, he was again greeted by the cheers of victory. He was warmly welcomed by his fellow citizens who had gathered at the edge of the ice.
– Children, elderly and adults with flags, large signs and fireworks welcomed me. It was a fantastic experience, says Peter, who has just arrived in Kulusuk.
Kangiata Qimussersua takes place every year, and every three years the participants qualify for Avannaata Qimussersui.
Next year, sled drivers from Qaanaaq to Sisimiut and from Ittoqqortoormiit to Tasiilaq will compete in Ilulissat. Peter hopes to qualify.
– I am trying to adjust the age and quality of the dogs towards 2027. I will make an effort to qualify, and I really hope that I succeed, concludes Peter Bosold.
The next big dog sled race, Avannaata Qimussersua, will take place in Qasigiannguit on Saturday 28 March.
