Yukon Quest Announces Purse of $150,000 in time for Sign Up Day

Organization Announces Purse of $150,000 in time for Sign Up DayAugust 1, 2011 (Fairbanks, AK & Whitehorse, YT) – The Boards of Directors of the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race today announced a minimum $150,000 USD purse for the 2012 race. The announcement comes in time for sign up day on August 6, 2011. Entry packages for mushers interested in the 1,000 mile race are available at www.yukonquest.com or at either Yukon Quest offices. “We are pleased to be able to once again guarantee the minimum purse for the 2012 race. That being said the staff and sponsorship team are working hard to secure as many return and new sponsors as possible,” stated Julie Estey, President of the Alaska Board. “With the revitalized economy in Yukon and the hard work we are doing in Alaska to secure additional sponsors we are very hopeful that the race will be in a solid financial position.” The purse as well as operational costs of running the race are raised through sponsor support and fundraising. There are many sponsorship opportunities including the trail, the vet program, checkpoint sponsorships and official suppliers. Those wishing to sponsor or donate funds or materials can contact either Yukon Quest office. “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. “Our fan base includes people from the around the world. I really want to encourage more corporations to support this iconic event. With the increasing media coverage, race sponsors benefit even more from the international exposure.” Opening day sign up this Saturday, August 6th will be a party 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 second 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. The Starter Program bidding will also be launched online at www.yukonquest.com, giving fans the opportunity to purchase an exclusive package to ride with their favourite musher to the start line and other perks. Mushers can sign up in person either at Race Headquarters in Fairbanks from 2 – 4 pm or at the Race Headquarters in the White Pass Depot in Whitehorse from 3 – 5 pm. An incentive draw will be held on August 13th 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:Pixie Ingramp) 867-456-7483 communications@outsidethecube.caALASKA550 First Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701Phone: 907.452.7954 Fax: 907.452.7959Email: yukonquest@mosquitonet.comYUKON#2 – 1109 First Ave. Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4Phone: 867.668.4711 Fax: 867.668.6674Email: questadmin@polarcom.com