Sled dog racers who compete in events such as the Iditarod and Yukon Quest do it because they love the sport, rather than for any financial gain.

This is according to Gill Gracie, the president of the Canadian Challenge, a qualifying race for the aforementioned events, which takes place between February 10th and 14th 2010.

She told the Canadian Press the canines are true athletes who "love to run".

"The dogs are really exciting, they’re all barking and wanting to go," Ms Gracie remarked, adding: "The prize money really doesn’t pay all their [mushers'] expenses so it’s a labour of love."

Next year’s Iditarod – which usually lasts between ten and 17 days – is set to take place over 1,000 miles between Anchorage and Nome from March 6th 2010.

Meanwhile, the Yukon Quest, which covers a similar distance, starts on February 6th 2010.

Previous champion Lance Mackey is set to appear in both races.