After the late registration date for the 2008 Yukon Quest passed Friday, it appears 28 mushers will leave the starting gate for the annual sled-dog race on Feb. 9.

Though 29 mushers had signed up for the 1,600-kilometre competition from Fairbanks to Whitehorse, rookie Jeremie Matrishon decided recently to withdraw.

The 33-year-old, who has his kennel off the Annie Lake Road, cited not enough training time as his reason for withdrawing from the 25th Quest.

Quest officials said this morning there may be further changes depending on the results of any qualifying races which happened over the weekend, such as the Copper Basin, or if any entries come in by mail today.