7 February 2012 A Race for the Dogs?

Mushing and Racing

Saturday, February 4th, marked the start of the 39th Annual Yukon Quest, a sled dog race from Fairbanks to White Horse, Canada. Musher and dogs will cross the finish line in approximately 9 days. This wilderness event rivals the famous Iditarod Race that takes place form Seward to Nome, Alaska, following the Yukon Quest. Many of the mushers will participate in both races.

Yukon Quest

"The Yukon Quest Trail follows historical Gold Rush and Mail Delivery dog sled routes from the turn of the 20th Century. Once the transportation “highways” of the Northern frontier, the Yukon Quest Trail now comes alive during February when the frosty breath and haunting howls of hundreds of sled dogs return to the route. Dog teams consisting of one human 'musher' and 14 canine athletes race across some of the last pristine wilderness remaining in North America." Click here for more info.

The competing 50 teams must carry all equipment, food, and supplies as they travel 1000 miles through 11 checkpoints. They cross over rivers, 4 mountain ranges, and isolated villages in weather conditions that include 100 mph winds and -40 degree Celsius temperatures. It is truly a race of skill and endurance.

Once across the finish line, the first 15 teams receive cash prizes. Find out more information and follow the race

2012 Race Start

Although I was flying when the race began, some PolarTREC teachers were assisting with the dogs, interviewing the mushers, and enjoying a day on the frozen river. This video was taken by PolarTREC teacher Juan Botella. http://

2009 Race Finish

3 years ago, I saw the end of the race as teams crossed the finish line on the frozen Chena River in downtown Fairbanks. Click here to see my journal and photos from then.