Sled dog competitors will find the 2010 Yukon Quest tougher than ever, it has been asserted.

Three-time winner Hans Garr said the Alaskan event is "probably the most competitive field I have ever seen", according to the Fairbanks Daily-News Miner.

A total of 29 mushers have already signed up for the February 6th 2010 meeting, which takes place on a 1,000-mile trail between Whitehorse, Yukon and Fairbanks.

Among them is Lance Mackey, who has won the race for the last three years, along with Cindy Barrand, Normand Casavant, Dries Jacobs and Brent Sass.

Executive director Marty Steury told the news provider: "Gosh, what a diverse group. It should make for some great stories."

First held in 1984, the event usually lasts between ten and 16 days, with a $35,000 (£21,699) prize for the winner.

It consists of ten check-pointed sections, which can be up to 200 miles apart.

Online race updates allow fans to follow the progress of their favourite mushers.