Otto Essig (1906-2005) Otto Essig was a long distance running participant and for many years a financial contributor to USATF His "over and above" financial support enabled Masters LDR to engage in special projects Masters Long Distance Running on behalf of our sport. He is immortalized in the most prestigious award given annually by Masters LDR - the Otto Essig Award for meritorious service to Masters Long Distance Running. The award was first given in 1977 to two recipients - Otto Essig and Ruth Anderson. Masters LDR will be reminded of Otto's generosity and involvement each year at the annual meeting when committee members nominate and vote on recipients of the award in his name.