Born: 1953 (Frankfurt, Germany)
Biography:
DeeDee Ann Jonrowe (née Stout) is an American kennel owner and dog musher who is a prominent figure in the sport of dog sled racing. Born on December 20, 1953, in Frankfurt, Germany, Jonrowe’s father, Kenneth Oliver Stout, was a U.S. Army officer stationed there at the time. She grew up in Virginia and in 1971, her family relocated to Alaska, where she would later become involved in the world of dog sled racing.
Jonrowe attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences and Renewable Resources. In 1977, she married Mike Jonrowe, and together they embarked on their journey in the world of dog mushing.
Throughout her career, Jonrowe has achieved remarkable success in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, one of the most challenging and prestigious dog sled races in the world. She has been a consistent participant in the race since 1980 and holds the fastest time ever recorded by a woman.
In 2003, Jonrowe completed the grueling 1,049-mile+ (1,600+ km) race just three weeks after finishing chemotherapy for breast cancer. Her remarkable feat received widespread publicity and made her an inspiration to many.
Aside from her accomplishments in racing, Jonrowe has also made significant contributions to society. She has been the spokesperson for the Winter Special Olympics and the National Girl Scouts Council. Her dedication to serving others earned her the Young Women’s Christian Association’s Alaska Woman of Achievement Award.
Jonrowe co-authored the book Iditarod Dreams with Lew Freedman, detailing her preparations for the 1993 and 1994 Iditarod races. Through her book and public appearances, Jonrowe has shared her love for dog sledding and has inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams.
Currently, Jonrowe resides in Willow, Alaska with her husband. She is an avid kennel owner and continues to participate in dog sled races. In 1979, she established her own kennel, which grew to include 25 dogs. Jonrowe is also one of the founders of Mush with P.R.I.D.E. (Providing Responsible Information on a Dog’s Environment), an organization dedicated to promoting responsible dog care and ethical mushing practices.
Despite facing personal hardships, such as losing her dog kennel and home in the 2015 Sockeye fire, Jonrowe remains resilient and actively involved in her community. She is also an active member of her church and maintains a strong faith.
DeeDee Jonrowe’s remarkable journey as a dog musher and her inspiring story of perseverance and resilience have left an indelible mark on the world of dog sledding and have made her a significant figure in women’s history.
Awards:
– Young Women’s Christian Association’s Alaska Woman of Achievement Award