Three-time Yukon Quest Champion, Brent Sass is playing it safe at his remote kennel near Eureka. He won the Quest in 2015, 2019 and 2020, and says the remote location northwest of Fairbanks, is providing a haven from the pandemic.
He says this is the year to help build up the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race.
Sass Pandemic: Q:”…I possibly can.”
Sass says dog mushing expeditions he usually guides in April were all cancelled, a hit to his finances, but that he’s finding some paying work locally.
Sass Work: Q:”…and my homestead.”
Sass reports that his dogs are doing well, including some recent additions.
Sass Dogs: Q:”…these crazy times.”
Sass says he plans to run the recently announced shortened 2021 Yukon Quest. Citing pandemic caused international border complications, Quest organizers recently announced plans to hold one race in the Yukon Territory and another one in Alaska. Routes and distances are still being worked out, but Sass sees opportunity to grow the race, which has struggled to attract teams in recent years.
Sass Quest: Q:”…into the fold.”
Sass says the shortened Quest could also provide a better warm up for the Iditarod, which Sass also plans to compete in again next year.
