Jessie Holmes

TBA

Taisto Torneus

Let us present a local star, a legend in the sled dog world

TAISTO TORNEUS.

We are very happy we could convince Taisto to enter the stage.

Taisto has been among sled dogs for decades.

He has raced sprint, mid-distance but mostly long distance and has still not left the sled. The latest season was very successful with victories in the races he attended.

There are lots of stories about Taisto and by Taisto.

Some stories are untold and some stories should never be told!

Sunniva Tunheim

Kiruna Sled Dog Club is pleased to present another inspiring speaker at this year’s symposium: Sunniva Tunheim.

The daughter of long-distance legend Harald Tunheim, Sunniva quite literally grew up on the sled. With her dog team as constant companions, she has spent much of her life on the runners and out in the mountains, a lifestyle and passion that have shaped her since childhood.

For Sunniva, mushing is more than a sport, it is a place of peace. A place where the bond between humans, dogs, and nature becomes something truly unique. The feeling of being a team out in the wilderness, sharing the experience with the dogs, is something she describes as one of life’s most genuine freedoms.

Her father’s influence has been significant. Through him, she has not only gained practical and theoretical knowledge but also come to understand the most important lesson of all, the value of the relationship between the musher, the dogs, and nature.

At last year’s Finnmarksløpet banquet, Sunniva decided, she would stand on the starting line herself. And so, she did. With a determination that leaves no room for half measures, she raced her first Finnmarksløpet in 2026. The experience? Magical and highly addictive.

Alexandra Sgier

Kiruna Sleddog Club is happy to announce Alexandra Sgier - Rehabilitation Therapist, Canine Fitness Specialist, and Reward-based Animal Trainer as speaker for this falls symposium.

Alexandra has a solid background and a strong passion for everything related to rehabilitation, fitness, and  a training for animals. Since 2001, she and her family have lived and trained with sled dogs, giving her a deep understanding of animal physiology, endurance, and teamwork.

Since 2012, she has run her own business focusing on animal rehabilitation and fitness training. It is important for Alexandra to create an emotionally aware training approach that promotes the most effective recovery, physical fitness, and boosts self-efficacy and mental development.

With certifications such as R+ Expert, Canine Fitness Trainer, and "Fear-Free" Elite Professional, along with extensive continuing education in animal behavior, rehabilitation, and training, Alexandra is a highly regarded and dedicated specialist in her field. Her driving force is to spread knowledge and help animal owners create sustainable and joyful training processes for their four-legged companions.