Copper Basin 300
Official Press Release

Due to temperatures near 60 and more below, Race Marshall Jon VanZyle and Head
Veterinarian, Jeanne Olson, decided to cancel the Copper Basin 300 at 11:00
a.m., on Sunday, January 14, 1996. The race organizers and officials
unanimously agreed. In keeping with the race policy of excellent dog care, an
over-whelming majority of mushers were in agreement. Frost bite of dogs was
becoming a problem pointed out by Head Veterinarian Jeanne Olson. "We have a
paramount obligation to the dogs", she said. There were nine scratches prior to
the decision to terminate the race.

Martin Buser, two time Iditarod Champion, and seven time Copper Basin 300
competitor said, "I certainly support the decision made by the officials and
vets for the greater good care of all the dogs in the race." John Schandelmeier
who has been instrumental in the race since its inception and a long time
veteran said, "I am in whole hearted agreement with the decision made by the
officials due to temperatures beyond our control. At Excelsior Creek it was 60
to 68 below. I am not willing to risk my dogs for any reason, much less a dog
race.

Our decision was based strictly on the immediate circumstances at that
particular point in the race. We hope to see all the mushers back next year.

Jon VanZyle
Race Marshall