Emilie Joslin is the friendly person who will welcome you when you enter the Yukon Quest office.
The walls of Joslin’s office are covered with posters from each and every year of this amazing annual dog sled race, from 1984, right on through.
The office is a busy spot and there’s a lot going on, especially at this time of year as the race date approaches.
Added to all the regular excitement, and comings and goings, are two brand-new events.
Everyone who happens to be in town will be able to participate in QuestFest.
This hive of activity will be humming at The Old Fire Hall during the week leading up to the race day. There are free film screenings: Sundogs, the story of the Jamaica dog-sled team; and Spirit of the North, a New Zealand television documentary, to name just two of the films.
Ongoing throughout the week will be food-and-drink concessions, gear demonstrations and a Jujiro Wada historical display.
A highlight event will be the international Mix ‘n’ Mingle, an opportunity to meet Yukon Quest volunteers and supporters from around the world.
Drink tea, nibble on cake and chat with people from as far away as … well, we don’t know that yet, but on the Quest website there is a testimonial by a couple from Sydney, Australia, which is about as far away as you can travel without starting to come back again.
This year’s second new feature will be Dinner with the Mushers.
Just 100 tickets are being printed for this exclusive event designed with the Quest enthusiast in mind. Guests will receive a limited-edition memento as well as a chance to hear stories from the trail.
The dinner will be held the evening prior to the Start & Draw Banquet.
People from other parts of Canada, from the United States and from all over the world become involved in the race, in one way or another.
Right here in the Yukon, it’s even easier.
Check its website for ideas … lots of ideas.
Here are just a few: Throughout the Year: IT-support and translation services; Pre-Race Preparation: trail-marker painting or hauling straw; Race Time: too many to mention, both beginner and advanced opportunities.
And, in case they’ve missed your special skill, there’s a spot for “Other Ideas Not Listed”.
Quest mushers will leave Whitehorse beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14.
Within easy reach, Joslin has her shiny-blue book where she records the interests and availability of people who contact her.
The Yukon Quest office is located at 2-1109 1st Avenue in the White Pass Building or you can call them at 668-4711 or visit their website at www.yukonquest.com.
