Large crowds turned up for the start of the 2024 Yukon Quest on Feb. 3 despite the relocation of the start line from Shipyards Park to Suncatchers Inn Cattery along Takhini River Road.
The throngs of attendees were somewhat unexpected. Less than 24 hours before the race, organizers told a media gathering that they weren’t expecting too many spectators due to the start line’s relocation to a site roughly 30 minutes north of downtown Whitehorse.
The change of location and -26C temperatures did not deter spectators, though. Cars were parked along the south side of Takhini River Road well beyond the cattery, and enthusiastic, bundled-up onlookers lined the race chute. At the Quest’s start, Benjamin Smith told the News that he was surprised by how many people had come out.
Mushers participating in the 450-mile race started leaving the chute at approximately 2 p.m., leaving in three-minute intervals. This staggered start ensured a smooth race entry for all competitors.
Alaska-based Czech-American musher Misha Wiljes was the first to depart, followed by Normand Casavant, Connor McMahon, Kailyn Olnes, Michelle Phillips and Mayla Hill.
The mushers in the 250-mile race followed immediately behind the 450-mile racers, with Louve Tweddell first out the chute and Crystal To beginning her race three minutes later.
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There was roughly an hour break between the departure of the last 250-mile racer and the first 100-mile racer, as the mushing teams’ trucks and trailers needed to be repositioned.
Amelie Janin was the first musher to leave the chute for the 100-mile race. She was followed by Claudia Wickert, Nathaniel Hamlyn, Silas Godber, Jon Lucas, Sean de Wolski, Jimmy Lebling and Vico Fauveau.
In the days prior to the Quest’s start, there were some changes to the roster of participants. According to Quest organizers, Americans Cody Strathe and Paige Drobny dropped out of the 450-mile race due to vehicle issues. Yukoner Ed Hopkins also bowed out of the 250-mile race.
Godber originally planned to participate in the 250-mile race but switched to the 100-mile race.
The first mushers are expected to arrive at Braeburn tonight around midnight. The first-place finisher in the 100-mile race, which concludes at Braeburn, is expected to cross the finish line at around 3 a.m. on Feb. 4.
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Contact Matthew Bossons at matthew.bossons@yukon-news.com