Overview
Across frozen rivers, over mountain ranges and through isolated northern villages the Yukon Quest teams fight through one of the toughest sled dog races in the world to become the Champion and win $35,000. Alternating start and finishing points between Whitehorse, Yukon and Fairbanks, Alaska the Yukon Quest spans over 1,600 km of bitter cold, wind and up to -50°F temperatures. The Quest is the epitome of the true bond between human and canine and shows the extent of their mental and physical capacities when they are out racing alone with only each other to depend on.
The race starts on schedule regardless of cold February weather conditions and lasts from 10 to 16 days following historic Gold Rush and Mail Delivery dog sled routes from the turn of the 20th Century. The race continues until the final dog team arrives at the Finish gaining the Red Lantern award. The attention to tradition both in routes and rules marks the Yukon Quest for excellence in fostering canine care and maintaining the integrity of northern travel by sled dog.
History
The Yukon Quest has been run every year since 1984 when 26 teams left Fairbanks in February with 20 finishing in Whitehorse and Sonny Lindner becoming the first Quest champion in just over 12 days. This first race set the standards for races to come and tested both race logistics and the talents of the teams involved. Over the years 350+ people from 11 countries have completed the Yukon Quest, some multiple times.
Our role
OTC’s role with the Yukon Quest has been evolving over the last three years to include a broad range of strategic planning, social media, merchandising and client care. This year OTC sent three members of our team on the trail to handle communications and social media on site. This allowed instant Facebook, Twitter and press release posting of important moments along the trail, resulting in the most informed fan base to date and increasing awareness of the intricacies of the race.
OTC has provided strategic planning to both the Canadian and US board of directors. This relationship leans strongly on communications. OTC has been organizing and managing all media relations during the race in order to promote the event and spread awareness of the canine care and traditions it fosters. The OTC team also facilitates and develops partnerships between the Yukon Quest organization and potential and loyal sponsors as a vital part of the race and its continued success. Included in this partnership is merchandising. OTC was responsible for setting up a successful official online store where fans both local and international could purchase Quest merchandise.