2020-21 SATW Foundation Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition
116 Special-Purpose Travel ( Newspapers,Travel Magazines,Travel Coverage in General Magazines,Travel Audio-Radio,Travel Audio-Podcasts and Guides)Back
Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Amanda Ruggeri Entry Title: In Guatemala, the Maya world untouched for centuries Entry Credit: Amanda Ruggeri Judge Comment: Amanda Ruggeri finds important news in this journey into the long-misunderstood world of the Maya. Hiking through jungles while dodging dangerous insects and reptiles, Ruggeri injects lots of high-adventure and gee-whiz discoveries. The writer explores recently found temples and burial sites (thanks to cutting edge technology) and uncovers important details about the sophistication of the Maya. The writer’s storytelling skills and courage translate into a fast-moving narrative. Strong reporting helps make this an entry that rises above the rest.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: tony perrottet Entry Title: The Way of the Shogun: Hiking Through Ancient Japan Entry Credit: Tony Perrottet Judge Comment: Tony Perrottet’s exceptional research provides historical context and a modern-day narrative to this memorable visit to Japan. Hiking over ancient bridges and majestic trails, the writer mixes the Shogun philosophy into the sights, sounds and smells along the way. The exceptional talent of the writer makes reading this story a pure pleasure.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Cory Woodard Entry Title: Traveling While Using a Wheelchair Entry Credit: Cory Lee Woodard Judge Comment: In Cory Lee Woodard's narrative about traveling in a wheelchair to all of the world’s continents, he teaches us about his 30-plus destinations while imparting lots of useful and helpful information. His work is both entertaining and packed with lessons for everyone. Just as important, Woodard is hopeful, inspiring and encouraging. His perspective is unique, and his voice brims with talent.
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: Smithsonian Magazine Entry Title: The Lost History of Yellowstone Entry Credit: Richard Grant, Kathleen Burke, Andrew Geiger, Quentin Nardi , Maria Keehan Judge Comment: The reporting of Richard Grant is a lesson to every travel writer that there’s usually something new about everything that’s old. In this case, the history of Yellowstone is more nuanced than previously believed, and there are other elements to the park than geysers and hot springs. The weaving of a new narrative into the story of Yellowstone reflects exceptional storytelling, sourcing and enterprise.
