Awards

THE TOM PORN AWARD

This coveted sportsmanship award is presented by the mushers themselves to a fellow musher who demonstrates a positive attitude along with fair play and compassion for his/her peers. Dr. Tom Porn was the first ‘official photographer for the UPSDA and a past board member. Tragically he died during a scuba dive.

THE COOLEY CHALLENGE

Every year a musher is selected by the veterinarians for his/her exemplary care of his/her dog team. Dr. Tom Cooley was head vet at the first race in 1990, and died in a lodge fire. Bonne, Tom’s widow, makes this award possible by giving $500.00 each year. The money is given to the Midnight Run and UP200 recipients.

THE GOLDEN BOOTIE AWARD

The Golden Bootie award was initiated by UP200 mushers during one of the post race wrap up meetings as a way to honor a vet. Mushers cast their vote for this award after the completion of the UP200. Dr. Jean Wilcox was the first recipient in 2008 and Dr. Tom Gustafson received the award the following year.

THE RED LANTERN AWARD

The actual red lantern is inscribed with a plaque denoting the name of the musher and the year of the race. The lantern is given to the musher who finishes last in each race.

The Beverly Stroh Award

Is given to a long standing volunteer for the races. Beverly Stroh was our volunteer Webmaster for many years and in her dedication to the UP200 the board felt that this would a perfect way in honoring her passing. The award is given by Lee and Claudia Nowak.