The Boards of Directors of the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race are pleased to announce a minimum $150,000 US purse for the 2011 race.

"We are happy to be able to announce the guaranteed purse of $150,000,” said Al Doherty, Yukon board president.

"Planning began early this year to allow the boards to commit to a minimum purse before opening day of signups. "

Doherty goes on to say that to meet the purse, along with escalating operating costs, the Yukon

Quest needs continued and new support to put on a great race in 2011.

Sponsor solicitation continues, as board members and staff continue their work to meet fundraising targets for 2011.

"Hans Oettli is returning as race marshal after a superb race in 2010 and now we have committed to a significant purse,” said Marti Steury, executive director in Alaska.

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

The Yukon Quest race marshal is in charge of all aspects of the race. Along with a team of race judges on the trail, who will act as deputies, the race marshal will ensure a fair and competitive 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.

"We're looking forward to an excellent field of mushers putting on a great race in 2011, as we prove yet again why the Yukon Quest is one of the world's premier sled dog races,” added Steury.

Last year's purse was also announced at a minimum $150,000 US.

Purses have ranged from $125,000 to $200,000 in recent years.

Last year's race winner, Hans Gatt, took home $28,395. Gatt finished the race in a record nine days

and 26 minutes, which was 23 hours shorter than the previous record, set in 2009.

Second-place musher Lance Mackey pocketed $20,280 for his efforts while the third-place finisher,

Hugh Neff, claimed $16,215.

The plan of the Quest boards is to make this year's purse announcement before opening day sign-up — Saturday, Aug. 7.

Mushers can sign up in person on that day, either at the Log Cabin in Fairbanks from 2–4 p.m., or at the White Pass Depot in Whitehorse from 3–5 p.m.

There will be an incentive draw held on Aug. 13, for all mushers officially entered on or before opening day, with the winner receiving a prize of $1,000 US.

For more information, visit www.yukonquest.com.