The race roster is set for the 16th annual Yukon River Quest, which will begin on Wednesday, June 25 in Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada. This year’s field will feature 66 teams with 153 paddlers from all over the world. It is the largest international field in the race’s history.
Thirteen countries are represented: Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, French Polynesia, Germany, Great Britain, Guatemala, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, and the United States.
Except for two mandatory rest stops totaling 10 hours, paddlers race nonstop over approximately 715 kilometers (444 miles) to Dawson City. Held annually in the north during the last week of June (around the summer solstice), it is a true “Race to the Midnight Sun” where many of the world’s best paddlers gather.
Following the race is a lot of fun, whether you are watching from alongside the river or sitting at home. All teams are required to have activated SPOT devices, which will greatly aid those following the race on their computers or mobile devices. Follow the Results link at www.yukonriverquest.com and also watch for updates and photos on the race’s Facebook page. You can also replay the race when it’s all over.
The total possible 2014 race purse will be about $22,500 (CAD) based on a final registration of 66 teams as of May 15. There are overall cash prizes for each class – tandem canoe, tandem kayak, solos, and voyageur canoes – as well as prizes for the top three in each division. There also are cash prizes for the top all-Yukon canoe and kayak teams, and the top First Nations team. Several special awards are also donated by Yukon and Alaska sponsors. But most of the paddlers are just aiming to get to Dawson and be awarded a coveted YRQ Finisher Pin.
http://www.yukonriverquest.com
