The Yukon Quest has guaranteed a US $125,000 minimum prize purse for the 2018 race, the organization announced this morning.

“We truly value and appreciate all the support from our amazing sponsors, volunteers and fans who consistently help contribute to the purse every year,” said Ryan Hughes, president of the Yukon Quest Alaska Board.

It’s the third year that the 1,600-kilometre international sled dog race has been able to increase the minimum prize purse.

“It’s a commitment we’re trying to maintain,” said Natalie Haltrich, Yukon Quest executive director.

In 2013, the purse was at its highest in recent years, 150K, before dipping to 100K in 2013. Last year’s purse was guaranteed at 120K.

The top 15 official finishers receive a percentage of the prize money.

Sign-up day for the 2018 Yukon Quest is Aug. 5, when mushers can register in-person at the Fairbanks office from 12 - 2 p.m. AKDT, or in Whitehorse from 1-3 p.m. Those that officially sign up that day will be entered into a draw for US $1,300.

The Whitehorse sign-up coincides with BarkFest, which runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with fun contests for dogs, a fundraising BBQ and a chance to meet some of the mushers as they sign up for the race.

The 2018 Yukon Quest starts on Feb. 3 in Fairbanks.