Yukon Quest Finishers' Banquet

Last evening, the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race held its Finishers' Banquet. There were lots of stories told by all. The event was sold out and showed the mushers how much their journey had captivated the attention and imagination of the people of Fairbanks and far beyond.


Allen's Official Finisher Patch

Several awards had been voted on by the mushers, officials and vet staff and were also presented at the banquet. In a race of so many trials, it was a very meaningful set of awards this year. Allen was honored with the sportsmanship award. Staying with the theme of the race, three mushers were co-winners of the award: Allen, Brent Sass and Mike Ellis. Here is a link to a great article about the banquet and the awards. Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Yukon Quest honors its contestants at banquet


Allen & Ryne at Banquet
Official Yukon Quest Finisher
Official Quest 300 Finisher

One of the stories that I hadn't heard yet was about Allen's arrival in Eagle. After spending the last 24 hours battling the elements and American Summit, he was working with his dogs, putting ointment on their feet. Allen was approached by a severe looking man with a gun strapped around his waist. "Sir," he said gruffly. "Are you an American Citizen?" "Ah, yes," was Allen's reply, all Arkansas. "Do you have your passport?" the man questioned. "Ah, yes," Allen said. "Very good," said the boarder control officer. "Carry on." Can't sneak by even going through a blizzard!!!


Aliy & Jennifer at Banquet
"So glad he is SAFE"

In case you haven't gotten the chance to read the article about Allen and his finish, here is the link. Allen was on the front page of the paper. Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Mushers recall harsh experiences on Yukon Quest trail

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