The Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race announced earlier this month that Dr. Alan Hallman accepted the position of head veterinarian for this year's race and that Greg Shaffer has joined the race team as the 2011 race manager.

Hallman and Shaffer join Hans Oettli, who was named race marshal earlier this year.

Dr. Hallman will return for his 13th Yukon Quest, and for the third time will act as head veterinarian, having done that job in 1994, 1996 and 1997.

Shaffer has been involved with the Yukon Quest since 1995 as a fan, sponsor, 1,000-mile club member and volunteer. In 2010, he served as assistant race manager, with 20 years of logistics work in the U.S. Air Force behind him.

Marti Steury, executive director in Alaska, said the priority of the 2011 Yukon Quest is to maintain consistency and ensure experienced personnel return to the race.

"Greg and Alan bring a wealth of experience with the Yukon Quest to our race team in 2011,” Steury said. "Having an experienced team in place brings consistency and expertise and lets everyone know the race is in good hands. It's great to have them both back.”

Also joining the 2011 race team is Stephanie Knaebel, who will be in charge of race administration in Alaska.