August 3, 2012 (Fairbanks, Alaska & Whitehorse, Yukon) –

The Boards of Directors of the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race today announced a minimum purse of $100,000 USD for the 2013 race.

The announcement comes in time for 2013 race sign up day scheduled for this Saturday August 4, 2012. Entry packages for mushers interested in the 1000 mile race are available at yukonquest.com or at either Yukon Quest office.

“We were hopeful that we could announce a larger minimum purse but it is important to the organization that we are transparent and upfront with mushers and stakeholders,” stated Becky Alexander President of the Alaska Board. “This is an amazing race but costs increase each year and last year we did not meet our sponsorship and fundraising targets. It is also expensive for mushers to run the race and we have committed each year to letting them know by sign up day the minimum purse. Ensuring all expenses from last year are paid and covering the purse are our priorities. If we see an increase in corporate sponsorship and fundraising we will certainly revisit the purse amount.”

With the support of funding partners and loyal sponsors the organization and boards are reassessing all costs, expenditures and revenues. While grants make up part of the funds required to operate the race the vast majority of expenses must be raised through corporate sponsorship and fundraising.

“This race and its purse rely on the support of the business community and the many individuals who give time and money to the race,” said Joost Van Der Putten, President of the Yukon Board. “The economic impact that the event creates in remote communities on both sides of the border as well as in Whitehorse and Fairbanks in winter is significant. I really want to encourage more corporations to support this iconic event. With a fan base that includes people from the around the world and increasing media coverage, race sponsors can benefit even more from the international exposure.”

Opening day sign ups this Saturday, August 4th will still be a celebration on both sides of the border with the Alaska team hosting a Fancy Ice Cream Social from 2 - 4 pm and the Yukon team hosting the third annual Volunteer Appreciation Party and BBQ from 3-5 pm. Everyone is invited to these events which give fans, volunteers and mushers a chance to meet and talk about the Yukon Quest.
Mushers can sign up in person either at Race Headquarters in Fairbanks from 2 - 4 pm or at the White Pass Depot in Whitehorse from 3 -5 pm. An incentive draw will be held on August 10th for all mushers officially entered on or before Opening Day. The draw winner will receive a prize of $1,000 USD.

For more information, contact:

Whitehorse Office
Marie Belanger
p) 867-668-4711
executive.director@yukonquest.com

Fairbanks Office
Marti Steury
p) 907-452-7954
questdirector@mosquitonet.com