麻豆社区

The Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile International Sled Dog Race received a rousing tribute in the legislative assembly last Thursday.

Mike Nixon, Minister of Tourism and Culture for the Yukon Party, rose to tribute the race, which will run for the 30th time in February.

"This 30th anniversary celebration is a hallmark milestone in the history of the race and one that all Yukoners can be proud of,鈥� Nixon said. "Since the first running in 1984, many individuals and organizations have supported the race.

"Together we celebrate the achievements and the hard work accomplished by those who have worked hard to make this race an iconic winter event, which showcases Yukon's legacy of sled dog mushing.鈥�

Various members of the Yukon Quest board of directors were in the gallery to witness the tribute, including president Joost van der Putten, vice-president Rolf Schmitt, treasurer Clarke LaPrairie, and executive director Marie-Sylvestre Belanger.

Nixon said van der Putten is slated to receive a Queen's Diamond Jubilee Award from Yukon MP Ryan Leef for his "hard work and dedication to move the Quest forward.鈥�

Nixon acknowledged the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, veterinarians, race officials, community organizers, mushers, dog handlers and the dogs themselves.

"It is their willingness to embrace personal challenge that makes the Quest such an exciting event,鈥� he said.

The MLA for Porter Creek South explained that the Quest reflects the special cross-border relationship shared between the Yukon and Alaska, as well as the recognition that each area's success is tied to their neighbour's good fortune.

"From its humble beginnings 30 years ago, very few events highlight the romance of the north like the Yukon Quest,鈥� said Nixon. "This northern spirit is reflected in the men and women who take part in the race. We see the love of their dogs through canine care and marvel at the skill it takes to race 1,000 miles across a harsh winter landscape.鈥�

Since 1999, the Department of Tourism and Culture has provided over $2.3 million to the Yukon Quest Canada organization in support of the program development, cooperative marketing, foreign media familiarization tours, race administration and community outreach.

The 30th running of the Yukon Quest begins at Shipyards Park in Whitehorse on Saturday, Feb. 2.