2005 Special Awards

Golden Harness Award -- Lance Mackey's lead dogs, Hobo Jim and Larry, received the Golden Harness Award of custom-made harnesses sponsored by Cold Spot Feeds, Fairbanks and were treated to a steak dinner at the Awards Banquet, courtesy of the Westmark Fairbanks.

Dawson Award -- Hugh Neff received 4 oz. of Klondike placer gold (donated by Wendy & Joe Fellers, of Dawson City) for being the first musher to arrive in Dawson City and go on to become an official finisher. The Dawson Award commemorates "getting to the Klondike and completing the journey home."

Rookie of the Year Award -- Lance Mackey received this award which is presented to the highest placing rookie musher. A "rookie" is defined as any musher in the race who has not reached Dawson City in a previous Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race.

Challenge of the North Award -- William Kleedehn received this award which is selected by Race Officials and is presented to the musher who best exemplifies the "Spirit of the Yukon Quest". The 2005 award was presented to Kleedehn for his perseverance, determination and his sustained charge to challenge the race leaders and claim second place.

Sportsmanship Award -- was presented to Ed Hopkins, in recognition of outstanding sportsmanship during the race, as chosen by all mushers who finish the race.

Vet's Choice Award -- was presented to Gerry Willomitzer. Voted on by the Veterinary Team, this award is presented to the musher who best demonstrates outstanding canine care during the entire race.

Red Lantern Award -- Blake Freking received the Red Lantern Award, sponsored by the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. The Red Lantern is presented to the final team to finish the race. Blake set a new record for the fastest Red Lantern time in the history of the Yukon Quest!

Non-finishing Mushers: Dan Kaduce, Bruno Baureis, Bruce Langmaid, Sam Perrino, Kelley Griffin, Catherine Pinard, Marcelle Fressineau, Martin Massicotte, Daniel Bourassa