CENTRAL, ALASKA (February 11, 2008) – One of the Yukon Quest’s most devoted mushers decided late Sunday night to pull out of the race at Central Checkpoint. Frank Turner, 60, blamed age for his decision to scratch from the 2008 Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race. “It’s not like you can just go and get a tune-up on the trail,” said Turner. The venerable veteran has raced 24 out of 25 Yukon Quests, but said it has been getting increasingly difficult each year to cope with the race’s physical demands. “It’s just not me anymore.” He would not rule out running again next year, but said his wife “should divorce me if I run again.” Turner also scratched in 2007. In 1995 he was Yukon Quest Champion and held the record for fastest finish for 11 years, although he claims not to be competitive. Turner is highly regarded within the mushing community for the high caliber of his dog care.
