A large sum of money is still needed for the purse in next month's Yukon Quest, the event's executive director confirmed today.

Sue Thomas told the Star that although local businesses have been "stellar” in supplying in-kind donations, the event is behind in cash support.

In early December, the Quest announced it was $60,000 behind in prize money.

Thomas said that number hasn't been reduced by more than $10,000 — and the race is only five weeks away.

The purse is $150,000 in total.

The entire race costs $550,000; $400,000 of that is in cash and $150,000 in in-kind donations of goods and services.

The new director said she is not able to discuss the financial picture further until after she meets with the board this afternoon.

The Quest has another problem on its hands. Outside the Cube, the event's communication's consultant for the past eight years, has pulled out.

Thomas said the company gave the Quest official notice in mid-December that it would be no longer be working for the race as of Dec. 31.

Outside the Cube's president and CEO, Dee Enright, did not return the Star's e-mail seeking a comment this morning.

In a press release issued Tuesday, the company said it has had a "very successful and enjoyable relationship” with the association.

Thomas said the Quest will try to do its own communications throughout the year, but will need to contract out some of the work for the actual event this year.

The 1,600-km race to Whitehorse will begin Feb. 4 in Fairbanks.