The warmth of the parka system worn by four Yukon Quest dogsled teams kept them warm and comfortable for the race. The parka system was provided by race sponsor Northern Outfitters.
The patented insulation in the 9-piece clothing system made by Northern Outfitters was worn by Hans Gatt in his record-breaking win of the 2010 Yukon Quest International Sled Dog race.
In addition to sponsoring the winner of the 1000-mile race, Northern Outfitters also sponsored the three top teams in the Yukon Quest 300, a shorter qualifying race for the Iditarod. These top mushers also wore Northern Outfitters’ top-performing cold weather clothing.
Sven Haltmann won the 300-mile race, crossing the finish line in Circle, AK, at 7:42 p.m. on February 8. Second place was taken by Magnus Kaltenborn finishing less than 2 hours later. Third place went to Sean Williams who finished at 4:44 a.m. February 9. The YQ300 is a qualifying race for the Iditarod coming up in March, 2010.
The winter clothing by Northern Outfitters worn by the four mushers helped make the difference in their outstanding performances. They all expressed thanks for the warmth and comfort offered by the parka, boot, mitten and hat systems.
Northern Outfitters’ gear, “gave them the edge in warmth, waterproof comfort and moisture transportation,” said Jim Harrison, Northern Outfitters owner. “The job the mushers do on the trail requires that they are able to move freely, and our parka systems require very few layers, allowing them the range of motion they need to compete at the highest level.”
Gatt won the Yukon Quest with a time that beat the previous race record by more than 24 hours. His first order of business at the finish line was to check and thank his dogs. He arrived with his great dog, Sonny, showing the way and nine dogs on the line. At the finish line, he also thanked Northern Outfitters for supplying the gear that served him so well on the trail.
The winner of the 1000-mile race said his team was the strongest in his history. “It is the best team I’ve ever raced,” Gatt said. He went on to say, “the dogs and I are all completely ready for the March 7 start of the Iditarod.” He again thanked Northern Outfitters for its sponsorship.
