Event Series: Building community races with Sporting Paws (Episode 203)

Event Series: Building community races with Sporting Paws (Episode 203)

April 17, 2026 · 34 min · Season 5 · Episode 204

About this episode

Michelle and Louise discuss canicross and community races with Ebony from Sporting Paws.

Michelle and Louise chat to Ebony from Sporting Paws, a dog trainer, behaviourist, and passionate canicross advocate who has recently organised her very first race in Lancashire. Ebony shares her personal journey into canicross, which began not through competition, but through a desire to reconnect with her dog during a difficult period. What started as simple runs together quickly became something much more powerful, helping both her and her dog rebuild confidence, trust, and enjoyment together. Ebony has built Sporting Paws from the ground up, focusing on making dog sports more accessible, especially for younger people. She offers a refreshing perspective on canicross as a tool for wellbeing, behaviour, and connection, rather than just performance. Ebony talks openly about the challenges of securing permissions for her first race, designing a course, managing logistics, and creating an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere for all abilities. Her first event at Beacon Country Park highlights what canicross is all about: community, encouragement, and shared enjoyment with your dog. This episode is full of inspiration for anyone new to canicross, thinking about entering their first…

People in this episode

Hosts: Michelle Mortimer, Louise Humphrey

Guest: Ebony

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Sporting Paws

Places: Lancashire, Beacon Country Park

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