The board of directors of the Yukon Quest International Association (Canada) is pleased to announce the appointment of Georgina Leslie as executive director, taking on the role from Wendy Morrison.

"Wendy has been a valued member of our team for four years as office manager and then executive director but is now leaving to engage in other pursuits. We have been very fortunate to have such great leadership and dedication from Wendy over the last four years.” said Al Doherty, president of the board.

Leslie will assume the role of executive director as of April 22.

Leslie was born and raised in the Yukon, the daughter of Glen and Ella Rear. She is an avid outdoor enthusiast and has strong values regarding the natural environment. She has spent the last 14 years working for Parks Canada in the Yukon and on Cape Breton Island at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site.

"After 6 years away, I am pleased to be returning home and I am looking forward to the opportunity to work for the Quest. It is a unique position – working with our Alaskan partners to promote and improve this great race, an exciting challenge.”

After a record breaking 2010 race, the Board has stated that they want to maintain the trail and ensure the team of volunteers and race management are active and engaged in building another great Yukon Quest race for 2011.

Submitted by the Yukon Quest Society International Canada