Kauhanen receives prestigious Gold Medal of Honor from Suomen Hippos for contributions to Finnish harness racing

Jukka-Pekka Kauhanen, a veteran harness racing trainer and driver, was honored with a prestigious award on Sunday. The Finnish harness racing and horse breeding central organization, Suomen Hippos, presented Kauhanen with the Gold Medal of Honor for harness racing. He is the twelfth recipient of this distinguished accolade, which is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to domestic harness racing.

Previous winners include notable figures such as Tuomo Mäkelä, Pentti Savolainen, and several others who have significantly impacted the sport. Expressing his gratitude, Kauhanen said, “I find myself in good company. I truly did not expect this award, and I am very honored.”

Residing in Iisalmi, North Savo, Kauhanen has driven in over 12,000 races throughout his career, achieving nearly 1,500 victories. He has claimed the title of harness racing champion in 2001, 2002, and 2005 with Santeri Dahlia, and won the title of harness racing queen in 2014 with Mokoma.

As a trainer and breeder, Kauhanen is especially known for his horses from the Dahlia stable, with Santeri Dahlia being the standout. “He is the horse of my life. A few others come close, but Santeri Dahlia’s accomplishments are the brightest crown of my career,” Kauhanen remarked.

Throughout his training career, Kauhanen has amassed over 2.4 million euros in winnings and currently serves as the chairman of the Finnish Harness Racing Trainers Association.