Yellowknife (Nov 19/04) - The theme of this year's Canadian Championship Dog Derby could be $50,000 for the 50th.

Dog Derby president Kevin Rowe said he is on the hunt for additional sponsorship to help increase the purse for the 2005 edition of the race.

Every year, the guaranteed purse of the event is $35,000, but that figure usually rises to approximately $37,500 by race day.

"I'd like to get up to $50,000," said Rowe.

Whether or not that happens will depend on corporate support.

In the past, sponsors have generously supported the dog derby, but to reach a $50,000 goal the committee is going to have to look beyond the conventional fundraising sources.

"I'd like to see us get a sponsor with national coverage," said Rowe.

The committee is also considering a commemorative gift for participants in honour of the half centennial.

More information will become available as the committee prepares to plan for the March 25, 26, and 27 event.

On Monday, they elected the 2004/2005 board.

Rowe was re-elected as president. Deegah Tatti is vice-president, Cindy Rowe is secretary treasurer and Melissa Rowe and Martin Rourke are directors-at-large.

The board's first planning meeting is next week. Interested parties can follow the progress of the dog derby on the Internet at www.yellowknifedogderby.com.