Alaskan Josh Horst has been hired as race manager for the 2012 Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile International Sled Dog Race.

A long-time Yukon Quest supporter, Horst is also the owner of Horst Expediting &

Remote Operations, a company founded in 2008 that supports remote projects in Northern Alaskan.

He was a handler for musher Brent Sass during the 2011 race, and also acted as media guide for Japanese TV in 2009-2010, was on the logistics team in 2007-2008 and was a checkpoint manager for the 2005-2006 races.

"After years of being a Quest fan, volunteer, media guide and handler, as well as a recreational musher, I couldn't be more excited to take on the logistical challenges presented by this incredible race,” Horst said.

"I look forward to working with this exceptional team to facilitate a race that will showcase the capabilities of the mushers and their teams, with as few man-made obstacles as possible.”

Returning as assistant race manager for the second-straight year is Dawson City resident Alex Brook.

"Josh brings more than nine years experience on the Yukon Quest trail, as well as unique passion and enthusiasm for the event,” said Marti Steury, Yukon Quest executive director in Alaska.

"With Josh now in place as race manager and Alex as assistant race manager, the 2012 race team is complete and we are so excited to have such a great group of skilled individuals.”

Horst and Brook join experienced team members Hans Oettli, who was named race marshal last month, and head veterinarian Dr. Kathleen McGill.

Oettli brings a long-term, behind-the-scenes perspective of the Yukon Quest, having been involved in various roles since 1984, including being a Yukon board member, race marshal, race judge, musher and volunteer. Dr. McGill fulfilled the role of head veterinarian in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009 and 2010.

The 29th annual Yukon Quest 1,000 International Sled Dog Race starts Feb. 4 in Fairbanks, Alaska.