The Yukon Quest is pleased to announce Hans Oettli has been hired to return as the 2011 race marshal.

Oettli served as race marshal for the 2010 race and also as a race judge in the 2009 race.

Originally from Basel, Switzerland, Oettli and his wife came to Yukon nearly 30 years ago and have raised a family and a kennel of malamutes. He has been active in the sled dog and racing community for the past 30 years. Oettli brings a long-term, behind-the-scenes perspective of the Yukon Quest having been a Yukon board member, Yukon Quest race judge, race marshal, musher and volunteer.

"I am looking forward to returning as race marshal next February,” said Oettli. "This race means so much to me and last year was such a great experience.”

"We are thrilled that Hans will be part of the Yukon Quest team again in 2011,” said Georgina Leslie, executive director of the Yukon Quest International Association in Canada. "Mushers, staff and race officials were all extremely pleased with his leadership this past February and we look forward to working with him again in 2011.”

The Yukon Quest race marshal is in charge of all aspects of the race. The race marshal also works closely with the head veterinarian to care for the health and safety of all dogs competing in the race.

The head veterinarian position will be announced in July.