Quest celebrations begin with 30th birthday party
In 1983, a chance gathering in a Fairbanks pub resulted in the idea of a 1,000-mile sled dog race between the Alaskan city and Whitehorse.
In 1983, a chance gathering in a Fairbanks pub resulted in the idea of a 1,000-mile sled dog race between the Alaskan city and Whitehorse.
Tomorrow, the Yukon Quest will be celebrating that memory, and all the moments that have resulted with a 30th birthday party planned at the Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre.
Dubbed the Long John Masquerade, the party will have a definite northern flair.
"The best usage of long johns, however that is, we will have a prize,鈥� said Marie Belanger, the Canadian Quest office's executive director. "It's just going to be fun. I would love for somebody to show up in those long, red one-piece long johns. If that happens, I have to say, I need to find an extra prize for that.鈥�
Dog masks will also be available to be worn, and prizes are being offered for those who make their own.
Memorabilia will be on display from the 鈥�80s, music from DJ Daniel Ashley will set the appropriate mood, and the food and drinks will be available in plenty 鈥� highlighted by a gigantic cake from the Chocolate Claim.
"We want to celebrate the 30 years of racing of the Yukon Quest,鈥� said Belanger.
"The main thing is we want people to have fun.鈥�
Last year's race champion Hugh Neff has confirmed his attendance, and the mushers on hand will participate in a series of mushing-themed competitions against each other and the public.
"It's the kickoff event of the year,鈥� Belanger said. "The 30th will be fun and busy and active 鈥� and we're just starting.鈥�
The party runs from 5 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door.
The 2013 Yukon Quest starts February 2nd in Whitehorse, Yukon. To-date, 22 mushers have signed up to run the 30th edition of the race.
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