Steve Deptula
The Iron Dog Race, Inc., Hall of Fame is dedicated to showcasing the rich and exciting history, along with honoring the men and women of the Iron Dog snowmobile event at both the recreational and competitive levels. The inductees of the 2025 Hall of Fame have provided countless memories as racers and race officials, they have supported our organization and racers financially and though encouragement, and provided industry information since the inception of our race. Their efforts have provided support for the foundation of our race and our sport.
This year, the Iron Dog Board of Directors inducted five new members.
“Congratulations to them all, and thank you for all you’ve given the Iron Dog Race.” – Mike Vasser, Iron Dog executive director
Steve Deptula
Steve Deptula holds the distinction as being part of the inaugural Iron Dog race in 1984 – where he finished an impressive second place with partner and fellow Hall of Famer Scott Davis. After adding the coveted “veteran” status to his list of accomplishments, he continued to serve the Iron Dog race, acting as volunteer trail breaker, board member and team supporter. He has spent more than 35 years in service to the organization.
“The trail breaking was probably my biggest effort over the years,” said Deptula. “Every once in a while, you would pick up an Iditarod marker or something, but it was real rural Alaska in the 1980s. Today, the trail is fairly established, but back then there were years the trail wouldn’t be the same.”
Iron Dog organizers have come to rely on Deptula’s institutional knowledge, and he is a trusted presence each year as the race approaches.
“I don’t know of a week that has gone by since my role as executive director that Steve hasn’t called just to check in or offer an ear,” said Iron Dog’s Mike Vasser. “His support and knowledge have been hugely helpful.”
Deptula is founder of High Performance Auto, and during his early years, he also would help raise money through such efforts as putting on raffles or selling T-shirts and contributing the proceeds to the race.
“Back at the start of Iron Dog, it was pretty tough to make ends meet for these racers, so it all helped,” he said.
Deptula also is known for making the race a more comfortable ride: “Steve is the mastermind behind what is known as the ‘Iron Dog Bag’ and ‘Iron Dog Seats’ – custom bags and seats making travel on the Iron Dog or in recreational riding lighter and more effective,” noted Iron Dog Board President Doug Dixon.
These days, Deptula can be found out at his cabin in Petersville, putting on more miles on his sled than most people half his age. At age 81, he has not slowed down, continuing to take part in cross-country motorsport treks with lifelong friends he has made through his Iron Dog connections.
Congratulations, Steve, for all your years of dedicated volunteerism.