Liberty Science Center in Jersey City celebrated winter sports with a special opportunity to meet some of the United States’ happiest—and furriest—athletes. From Jan. 17 to 19, visitors got up close with Alex Crossett, a two-time Dryland Musher with Odin Eye Canines, and her team of six professional sled dogs, affectionately known as “muttskies.”
Crossett, a seasoned competitor with the United States Federation of Sleddog Sports (USFSS), hosted multiple daily demonstrations throughout the event. She’ll shared the fascinating history of Dryland Mushing, explained the training and preparation involved in leading a sled dog team, and demonstrated the skills these canine athletes use to navigate courses on land. Attendees also had the chance to interact directly with the dogs, providing an unforgettable, hands-on experience that combines education, entertainment, and a love of animals.
In addition to the musher demonstrations, Liberty Science Center hosted a variety of winter sports activities for families and kids. Guests can try their hand at Sock Hockey and non-ice curling, engaging in fun, accessible versions of traditional Winter Olympic sports. These activities, along with the Winter Olympics Sportacular, aimed to combine education and physical activity, encouraging participants to explore sports science, teamwork, and strategy in a hands-on environment.