Snowmobile Expo 2017

SNOWMOBILE EXPO powersports & Races 2017

West Yellowstone, Montana // March 10 -12, 2017 a s p e c i a l p u b l i c at i o n o f t h e b o z e m a n d a i ly c h r o n i c l e

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Snowmobile Expo • Big Sky Publishing • February 24, 2017

Table of contents Snowmobile Expo Powersports & Races 2017 Scoop.............................................................................3 The Groomin’ Behind the Zoomin’: West Yellowstone’s Trail Grooming Program...............................6 Snowmobile Expo 2017 Schedule................................................................................................................8 Kids ‘N’ Snow Weekends Share Snowmobiling Fun..............................................................................10 What to Know Before You Go.....................................................................................................................11 Follow the Rules of the Trail........................................................................................................................12 From SWOOP Productions: Stunts, Fire & Flips, and Your Chance to Race UTVs.............................14 Photos: Mike Polkowske

February 24, 2017 • Big Sky Publishing • Snowmobile Expo

SNOWMOBILE EXPO 2017 Powersports & Races Returns March 10 -12

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est Yellowstone’s 27th annual Snowmobile EXPO is where Arctic Cat, Ski-Doo and Yamaha come together to unveil their new snowmobile lines to the public in the Rocky Mountain West! Be the first to see what’s new in power, shine and features March 10-12 at Snowmobile Expo Powersport & Races 2017.

Along with the new sleds, clothing, powersports exhibits and aftermarket parts will be on display – all outdoors this year at the Racetrack, just off Iris Street.

Friday night fun includes the famous Casino Night, where anyone can become a millionaire (with funny money!) and a Calcutta for the vintage racers.

EXPO 2017 TICKET PRICES: Friday & Saturday Races (M120 & Vintage)..................................... $10 Saturday Night UTV Races & RZR BackFlip...................................... $10 Sunday Snow Bike Races.................................................................... $10 Friday-Sunday Races Only................................................................... $15 All Activities Pass (Fri.–Sun.)............................................................... $20 Tickets available at the Gate.

Kids 12 and under get in FREE for EXPO. Exhibitor Area is also FREE! WEEKEND PASS includes all activities at the track FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY! (M120, SnoCross, Vintage, Snow Bike Races and RZR Flip)

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Snowmobile Expo • Big Sky Publishing • February 24, 2017

Snow Bike Racing Returns!

1976 Was a Vintage Year

The AMA Championship Snow Bike Series Round 6 will feature plenty of knock-down, bar-banging, jaw-dropping, ski-to-ski action featuring really fast guys on really fast bikes! Open to all snow bikes. Practice starts Sunday, March 12, at 9 a.m., racing starts at 10 a.m. There will also be onsite demo rides for the public (ages 18 and older).

The Vintage Snowmobile Club of America (VSCA) National Show in conjunction with the Western States Vintage Snowmobile Association (WSVA) Annual Show bring unique vintage snowmobiles to West Yellowstone for a combination show, competition and display, located south of the SnoCross Track.

It’s one of the largest gatherings of vintage and antique snowmobiles in the West, with U.S. and Canadian participants from all over the snow belt. More than 200 immaculate snowmobiles encompassing the spectrum of snowmobiling history are expected to participate. This year’s featured year is 1976. Prizes and special awards for People’s Choice, Best of Show & WSVSA Sled of the Year.

Mountain West Racing (MWR) Vintage Racing returns with vintage OVAL races and a specially designed race course. The action begins at 9 a.m. Friday with two qualifiers and FINALS starting around 10:30 a.m. Saturday races follow the same schedule. Races are limited to snowmobiles year 1980 and older.

MWR SnoCross Racing includes Junior 10-13, Transition 300, Transition 500 and Sport. SnoCross classes will alternate with the 120 races (Friday & Saturday beginning at 1 p.m.) and the Grand Western M120 Championships on Saturday.

Qualifying runs begin at 1 p.m., with FINALS starting around 3:30 p.m.

SWOOP Productions Flips SWOOP Productions brings Dare Devil Day to West Yellowstone with a Saturday afternoon exhibition of thrilling sport-bike freestyle performances for bike fanatics of all ages.

A rider formed company, SWOOP presents the exciting spectacle of freestyle street bike and Harley Davidson stunts, performed by some of the most talented FMX riders in the world.

This FREE show begins at 4 p.m. Downtown, with freestyle Trials Bike and Harley Davidson stuntmen competing to one-up each other in a fantastical show of music and noise, bike rattling and roaring, as machines and men are pushed to their limits. Joining them will be the Real KaMaKaZiE KiD, performing his Man on Fire trick!

Arrive early to get the best seats. You won’t want to miss this!

New for 2017 – Join the UTV Race!

SWOOP Productions and Snowmobile Expo 2017 switch things up on Saturday night. Area UTV riders are invited to be the show – and compete for cash prizes and bragging rights – as SWOOP presents UTV Races & a Polaris RZR 1000 Backflip Show from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the Racetrack.

Local UTV riders, this is your opportunity to compete for an audience! Get information and sign up by emailing swooppro@gmail.com.

Returning to add to this exciting event is the Real KaMaKaZiE KiD, performing more dramatic fire stunts in the dark.

But what’s this RZR Backflip stunt? Picture a brave man strapped to a Polaris RZR 1000 riding a ramp at 45 mph, then flying and flipping the RZR in nothing but air! Whether he makes it or crashes, it’s all done in 60 feet. You won’t see anything like this anywhere else in Montana!

120 Grand Champs The 120 Western Grand Championships bring upcoming superstars together to own the 2017 “Champion 120 Title.” 120cc racing is a special event for youngsters, who compete in four different classes. Kids 4 to 12 years old have a chance to try out racing or gain racing experience. It’s open to everyone. Participants must register and purchase insurance; no membership required.

Also back for the younger set: Free 120 snowmobile Demo Rides for kids ages 3 to 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday on Iris Street, just south of the Racetrack.

February 24, 2017 • Big Sky Publishing • Snowmobile Expo

Snow Bike

Racing Returns to West Yellowstone!

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he AMA Championship Snow Bike Series Round 6 will feature bar-banging, ski-to-ski action open to all snow bikes. Practice starts Sunday, March 12, at 9 a.m.

Racing begins at 10.

Onsite demo rides are available to fans 18 and older.

Championship Classes •

• •

Men, ages 16 and up (bikes up to 530cc, 2 or 4-stroke); Women, ages 16 and up (bikes up to 530cc, 2 or 4-stroke); and Seniors, ages 40 and up (any size engine).

Women may also enter any of the men’s classes.

No NOS or turbos.

Exhibition Classes • • • •

Open, ages 16 and up, (531cc & up, 2 or 4-stroke).

Youth Ripper, ages 6-15 on “Rippers” up to 150cc.

Vet Ripper, ages 30 and up on Rippers.

No NOS or turbos

The AMA will crown Men’s, Women’s and Senior (over age 40) champions at the end of the year. Prizes will include custom HMK jackets, Rockwell watches, and more. Trophies are courtesy of Excel Fabrication and Fresh Moto Graphics.

The AMA Championship Snow Bike Series follows the AMA amateur motocross rule book, with some supplemental rules for snow bikes. Racers must be an annual AMA member or buy a temporary weekend license to race. For rules, motorcycle requirements and registration visit www.amachampionshipsnowbikeseries.com.

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Snowmobile Expo • Big Sky Publishing • February 24, 2017

The Groomin’

Behind the Zoomin’: West Yellowstone’s

Trail Grooming

Program

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est Yellowstone is a snowmobiler’s paradise.

The trail system begins in town, where snowmobilers share city streets with motorists, and continues onto trails in the Custer-Gallatin, Beaverhead and Targhee National forests.

Keeping the trails on the Montana side in pristine condition is the work of a small group of dedicated, skilled operators and mechanics. At night, while most of us are sleeping, the West Yellowstone Trail Groomers are out on the trails preparing them for the next day’s riders.

During a typical shift, three or four trail groomer operators, each outfitted with a different snowcat, set out on the trails just after dark. The snowcats can cover 40 miles of trails during a six- to eight-hour shift.

Three of the machines, two Pisten Bullies and one Caterpillar Tractor, are owned by the State of Montana Grooming Program. The West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce leases them for a minimal fee each year. The West Yellowstone Trail Grooming program owns another Pisten Bully.

The West Yellowstone Snowmobile Trail Grooming Program was the first of its kind in the nation, created more than 30 years ago by a public/private partnership.

In fact, Two Top Trail was the nation’s first National Recreational Snowmobile Trail. West Yellowstone resident Bill Howell was a driving force in creating the program, and his son, Jason, is the current committee chairman.

The Chamber of Commerce Snowmobile Trail Grooming Committee and U.S. Forest Service staff oversee the grooming team and operations. Funding comes from the Montana Snowmobile Trails Program, local businesses and the Federal Recreation Trails Program.

Trail Choices Popular beginner trails include the 20-mile Madison Arm Loop, located north and west of West Yellowstone, and the 20-mile Horse Butte Loop along the shores of Hebgen Lake.

The South Plateau Trail runs along the boundary of Yellowstone National Park.

You can ride this trail out and back, or link it up with others to make a great loop ride.

The most famous trail, the Two Top Trail is a popular choice for its variety of terrain and 2,000-foot elevation gain. It is groomed, and powder fields abound. On clear days, riders can see the Teton and Centennial Mountain ranges and far into Yellowstone National Park.

More experienced riders can access extra off-trail riding from Two Top or Lionhead Trail. Lionhead follows the Continental Divide, climbing through switchbacks to over 10,000 feet. There are numerous bowls with drop-offs and overhanging cliffs.

The Big Sky Trail is a challenging 110-miler that begins just north of West Yellowstone. While the first portion (about 9 miles from Hwy 191, or 19 miles from town) is groomed, the trail quickly turns into an ungroomed powder experience.

Services and Safety Local businesses provide snowmobile and clothing rentals on a daily or multiday basis. Snowmobile rentals range from two-up easy riding and trail models to high-powered sleds adapted for mountain and backcountry riding.

Additional equipment, including avalanche beacons and shovels for backcountry riding can also be rented. National Forest guide service is available for snowmobilers new to the area and those interested in back country riding.

For more information about snowmobiling, trail reports and other winter adventures, visit DestinationYellowstone.com/winter.

February 24, 2017 • Big Sky Publishing • Snowmobile Expo

Trails & Tours Are Easy to Access With more than 400 miles of trails in three national forests and 150 inches of annual snowfall – not to mention the option to take a guided tour into Yellowstone National Park – West Yellowstone offers some of the best scenery and snowmobiling anywhere.

Dip into Custer Gallatin, Beaverhead-Deerlodge and Caribou-Targhee National Forests and Island Park, Idaho, or go up Two Top Mountain, one of the area’s most popular rides.

Take a tour on the Madison Arm Loop by Hebgen Lake, ride the groomed trails at your leisure or head into deep backcountry with a guide.

Snowmobiling is allowed on many local streets, so you can begin your day’s adventure on your sled right at your lodging’s door. There are several access points and trailheads to trails beyond town around downtown too.

West Yellowstone also offers the easiest access to the winter wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Snowcoach and guided snowmobile tours leave town each morning at 8:30 for Old Faithful or the Grand Canyon area, and return by 5. There are regular stops for sightseeing, wildlife watching and lunch. You’re sure to see bison, elk and geysers – maybe a wolf – and scenery you can’t see anywhere else. Don’t forget your camera. Last day of the winter season is March 15.

If you plan on heading into the backcountry, consider hooking up with a local guide. DO take avalanche rescue equipment. Be sure to check out the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center’s daily report (www.mtavalanche.com). Remember, the speed limit on all groomed trails and in the park is 45 mph.

Serving Breakfast & Dinner 7 days a week

406-646-7811 205 Yellowstone Ave. West Yellowstone, MT 59758

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Snowmobile Expo • Big Sky Publishing • February 24, 2017

Snowmobile Expo 2017 Thursday, March 9 5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m................ VSCA & WSVSA Vintage OVAL Check-in & Racer Registration

at Holiday Inn Convention Center

Friday, March 10 8 a.m. – 9 a.m..................... Vintage Drivers Meeting at SnoCross Track 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ................... MotoTrax Snow Bike Demo Rides at Iris Street 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ............ MWR Vintage Snowmobile OVAL Racing Qualifying at Racetrack 10 a.m. – 10:15 a.m............ EXPO Vendor Opening Ceremonies at Racetrack 10 a.m. – 5:45 p.m.............. EXPO Vendor Area at Racetrack 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m....... MWR Vintage Snowmobile OVAL Racing FINALS at Racetrack Noon – 1 p.m...................... MWR 120 & Junior SnoCross Driver Crew Meeting at SnoCross Track 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. .............. MWR 120 & Junior SnoCross Qualifying at SnoCross Track 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. ......... MWR 120 & Junior SnoCross FINALS at SnoCross Track 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. ................... WSVSA Vintage Snowmobile Round Up Registration at

Three Bear Lodge Conference Room 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m........... Casino Night at Holiday Inn 8:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. .............. Calcutta for the Vintage Racers at Holiday Inn (after Casino Night)

Saturday, March 11 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. ................... Vintage Drivers Meeting at SnoCross Track 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. ................... EXPO Vendor Area at Racetrack 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ................... MotoTrax Snow Bike Demo Rides at Iris Street 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. ............ MWR Vintage Snowmobile OVAL Racing Qualifying Rounds at SnoCross Track 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. ................... VSCA National Show & WSVSA Vintage Snowmobile Show at SnoCross Track 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m....... MWR Vintage Snowmobile OVAL Racing FINALS at SnoCross Track Noon – 1 p.m...................... M120 & Junior SnoCross Driver Crew Meeting at SnoCross Track 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. .............. Western Grand Championship M120 Races & Junior

SnoCross Qualifying at SnoCross Track 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m........... M120 Western Grand Championships & Junior SnoCross FINALS at SnoCross Track 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. .............. SWOOP Motorcycle Street Freestyle Exhibition

& Dare Devil Show at Downtown West Yellowstone 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. ................... WSVSA Vintage Snowmobile Awards Banquet at Holiday Inn 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. ............ UTV Races & RZR Flip at Racetrack

Sunday, March 12 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. .............. Snow Bike Race Registration at SnoCross Track 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. ................. AMA Championship Snow Bike Series Round 6 Practice at SnoCross Track 9 a.m. – Noon..................... EXPO Vendor Area at Expo Area 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. .......... AMA Championship Snow Bike Series Round 6 at SnoCross Track

February 24, 2017 • Big Sky Publishing • Snowmobile Expo

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WELCOME SNOWMOBILERS, RACERS & EXHIBITORS

THE TIMES HAVE CHANGED, SO HAVE WE! All of West Yellowstone would like to thank-you for coming to our 2017 Snowmobile Expo and Races. We appreciate your loyalty and time to make this event a huge success. If there is anything we can do at Westmart Building Center to make your visit more enjoyable and successful, just stop by and see us.

-The crew at Westmart

406.646.9578

100 Faithful Ave. W.Yellowstone

Hours: M-F 7:30-5:00 Sat. 8:00-3:00 Closed Sun.

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Snowmobile Expo • Big Sky Publishing • February 24, 2017

Kids ‘N’ Snow

Weekends Share

Snowmobiling Fun

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now is the winter story in West Yellowstone.

The town averages more than 153 inches each year. It begins to accumulate in late October and generally stays through mid-April.

Getting outside and engaging in winter activities is critical for the kids in West Yellowstone.

The Kids’N’Snow program (www.kidsnsnow.org) offers an opportunity for all kids – local as well as winter visitors – to try new things in a safe and fun, hands-on learning environment. They burn off energy, discover the magic of winter in West and, hopefully, begin a lifelong love affair with winter sports and activities.

Kids’N’Snow started with a “test” weekend in December 2010 and expanded to a full program featuring one Kids’ Weekend a month in 2011.

Since then, with the help of many partners, the program has served thousands of young participants, including many from other states and several other countries, over four weekends each winter. In 2012, it received the “Tourism Event of the Year” from the Montana Office of Tourism, and in 2014 was recognized as an Association of Zoos and Aquariums Nature Play Site.

Each weekend includes a variety of outdoor activities: snowshoe hikes with a Forest Service or Yellowstone Park ranger, rides with a professional sled dog racing team, outdoor games and more. Saturday evenings feature Skating, S’mores and Sleddin’.

In January, kids have the chance to learn how to ice fish (and get a free rod) as part of the NAIFC-Cabela’s Kids Camp. West Yellowstone’s Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center offers special learning programs including “Birds of Prey” and snowshoeing to find animal tracks.

The West Yellowstone Snowmobile Events Committee donates three M120 snowmobiles to provide hundreds of free rides for kids ages 6 to 12, and the West Yellowstone Snowmobile Trail Grooming Committee contributes time to create and maintain the track for the rides. It’s a great way to introduce the next generation to safe snowmobiling fun.

For more information, call the Visitor Information Center at 406-646-7701 or visit DestinationYellowstone.com/winter.

Welcome Snowmobilers!

Box Lunches Deli Sandwiches Full Breakfast Hot Lunches Espresso/Coffee Bar Soup, Stew, Chili & more Free Internet 406 Highway 20, West Yellowstone 406-646-9467 • erniesbakery.com

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February 24, 2017 • Big Sky Publishing • Snowmobile Expo

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What to Know Before You Go

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or those of you new to the EXPO, race events & demonstrations are held at the old airport at the western edge of West Yellowstone off Iris Street.

Every year, hundreds of volunteers work together to build the venues, erect snow fencing and set up each area. The grandstands are built from snow, 25 feet high and tiered.

Dress warmly for the evenings outside, including warm, weatherproof boots. Dressing in layers is highly recommended. During the day, carry sunscreen and sunglasses.

You can bring an outdoor chair or blanket to sit on in the grandstands. Concessions and outdoor toilets are available in the track area.

The exhibition area displaying new snowmobiles, after-market parts and accessories – all free – is located just outside the racetrack along Iris Street. The Holiday Inn is the location for nightly events (free admission), including Friday night’s Casino Night and Calcutta. Live music and a magician are new activities this year.

Parking is available close to the Racetrack. The track is also within walking distance of most lodging facilities.

For information on lodging, call 406-646-7701 or visit www.destinationyellowstone.com.

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Snowmobile Expo • Big Sky Publishing • February 24, 2017

Follow the Rules

of the Trail

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nowmobiling is a fun, family-oriented activity, & around West Yellowstone, a vast amount of National Forest land is open for winter travel.

In some areas, those traveling by skis, snowshoes and snowmobiles must share the same space. Common sense and courtesy provide a safe, pleasant experience for everyone.

Represent the Sport Well • Be a savvy sports enthusiast. Recognize that people judge all snowmobile owners by your actions.

• Use your influence with other snowmobile owners to promote good conduct.

• Promote proper snowmobile education and training.

Care for the Environment • • • •

Do not litter trails or camping areas. Do not pollute lakes or streams.

Snowmobile only when there is sufficient snow so you don’t damage the land.

Do not damage living trees, shrubs or other natural features.

Do not harass wildlife. Avoid areas posted for the protection or feeding of wildlife.

Respect Wildlife All winter recreationists should be aware that they have an impact on wintering wild animals, and that disturbing or displacing them causes them to burn more energy. Minimize your impact on wintering animals by following these guidelines:

February 24, 2017 • Big Sky Publishing • Snowmobile Expo

• • • • •

Avoid winter range whenever possible.

Do not linger in the presence of animals; move along in a steady, deliberate fashion.

It is unlawful to chase, harass, herd or rally wild animals.

Keep your machine in well-tuned condition to minimize noise and pollution.

Avoid areas designated as “closed” for wildlife protection.

Be Considerate of Others • •

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• •

Respect other people’s property and rights.

Do not interfere with hikers, skiers, snowshoers, ice fishermen or other winter sports enthusiasts.

Operate at minimum speeds near other recreationists and do not accelerate until well beyond those on foot.

Stop and yield the trail to dogsleds. Skiers and snowshoers should yield the track to oncoming and overtaking snowmobilers, unless the track is wide enough for safe passage.

Lend a helping hand when you see someone in need.

Make yourself and your vehicle available to assist search and rescue parties.

Practice Safety • • • •

Ride smart, be prepared and stay in control.

Check ice and weather conditions before riding. Dress appropriately.

Practice Zero Tolerance with respect to impaired riding.

Never travel alone. Let others know where you are going.

Perform a Pre-Ride Inspection The performance of a pre-ride inspection is paramount to a safe, stressfree ride. Most equipment failures can be avoided by periodic maintenance and inspection.

Safety on Ice The safest snowmobiling rule is never to cross lakes or rivers. Besides the danger of plunging through the ice, you have far less traction for starting, turning and stopping.

Collisions on lakes account for a significant number of accidents. Don’t hold the attitude that lakes are flat, wide open areas, free of obstructions. Remember, if you can ride and turn in any direction without boundaries, so can other riders.

Therefore, the threat of a collision can come from any direction.

If you do snowmobile on the ice, make absolutely sure the ice is safely frozen.

Don’t trust the judgment of other snowmobilers. Drowning is a leading cause of snowmobile fatalities. Know what to do if you go through the ice.

Be Avalanche Aware Learn to recognize avalanche areas and avoid them. Carry avalanche rescue equipment including a transceiver, probe pole and shovel, and know how to use them. Review the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center’s daily report at www.mtavalanche.com.

Montana Snowmobiling

Regulations

It is your responsibility to know and follow established rules and regulations. Here’s a summary, but you should also review additional information available from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, U.S. Forest Service offices and ranger stations, and other state and county government sources.

General Snowmobiling Laws Montana Code Annotated 23-2-6 defines the rules for operating a snowmobile in Montana.

• Operation at night: When operating between dusk and dawn a snowmobile must use a lighted headlight and taillight.

• Accidents: The owner or operator of a snowmobile involved in any accident, collision or upset in which personal injury or fatality occurs to any person shall report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency immediately.

• Firearms: A person may not discharge a firearm from or upon a snowmobile.

Laws for Road Riding MCA 23-2-631 states that snowmobiles may operate on maintained streets, roads or highways only if: • The roadway is drifted or covered by snow to such an extent that travel is impossible by other motor vehicles.

• The local government allows snowmobiles to travel on plowed roads with wheeled vehicles.

• The snowmobile operator possesses a motor vehicle driver’s license or a snowmobile safety certificate and travels under the visual supervision of an adult.

Trail Passes Required Residents must also purchase a Trail Pass to ride on any of the 4000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Trail Passes are valid for three seasons and are $18. Trail Passes apply to all “mechanized equipment” including, snowmobiles, motorized snow bikes and fat tire pedal bikes.

Nonresidents who plan to ride their snowmobiles and motorized snow bikes in Montana must purchase a Snowmobile Nonresident Temporary Use Permit for $25 per machine.

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Snowmobile Expo • Big Sky Publishing • February 24, 2017

Photos: SWOOP Productions

From SWOOP Productions Stunts, Fire & Flips, and Your Chance to Race UTVs L

ooking for bike stunts, RZR backflips and lots of fire?

Don’t miss SWOOP Productions’ Powersports and Dare Devil Shows, coming to Snowmobile Expo 2017 on Saturday, March 11.

But there’s more!

For 2017, there’s a whole new twist to Saturday night, and it stars daring Expo fans. We’re talking UTV Racing by the audience, for the audience. For a share of $2,000 in cash, plus prizes and bragging rights.

First up is the FREE SWOOP Motorcycle Street Freestyle Exhibition & Dare Devil Show at 4 p.m. Downtown. It’s super family friendly fun, nonstop entertainment featuring sport-bike freestyle performances by Harley Davidson and Trials Bike riders – some of the best in the nation.

“The Trials Bike is basically a built-down dirt bike that climbs and jumps over stuff. I love watching the kids’ reactions. That’s why I do it. It’s my obsession,” said Brian Giordano of SWOOP Productions. Fans will get the chance to meet the stuntmen after they perform. “Get an autograph. Shake their hands. It’s all about having a good time,” he added.

February 24, 2017 • Big Sky Publishing • Snowmobile Expo

Saturday Night Races At 6:30 p.m., the fun moves to the Racetrack, featuring the crowd participation UTV Races and a crazy Polaris RZR 1000 Backflip. Audience admission is just $10.

First up, the UTV races. They’re on snow, using the same track the sleds will use during the day. To participate, bring your own machine – 800cc and 1000cc classes – and the $30 entry fee. Register in advance by contacting Giordano at swooppro@ gmail.com, or show up on Saturday. Men and women welcome; racers must be 18 or older.

It’s sure to be fast, fun action under the stars! Whatever you do, don’t leave until the end.

This show’s grand finale is a stunt seen only once before in Montana: An amazing, heart-stopping Polaris RZR 1000 Backflip. “There are only a few guys in the world doing this one,” said Giordano, who brought this stunt to Montana once before in Helena.

The driver straps in, launches his vehicle up the ramp at 45 mph, starts flying and does a full Backflip in 60 feet of air. Or he crashes.

“It’s a lot of machine doing something it shouldn’t be doing. It’s a pricey stunt, because if he crashes, he will really wreck the machine,” Giordano added. “Everyone hopes he crashes, though. People are crazy like that.”

Meet the Real KaMaKaZiE KiD Featured at both shows will be the Real KaMaKaZiE KiD, a fire-breathing, runthrough-fire, set-himself-on-fire stuntman out of Casper, Wyo. (facebook.com\RealKaMaKaZiEKiD and youtube.com/user/realkamakaziekid).

“I’ve been doing stunts since 2008, when I met touring daredevil Dr. Danger in my hometown,” he said. “He needed someone to help him get ready for a car crash and explosion, and he picked me because of my mohawk. It was a chance to light two pounds of black powder and two gallons of gasoline into a huge fireball, and I was hooked. It was awesome.”

A few months later, Dr. Danger taught the Real KaMaKaZieKiD his trade, and the Real KiD was featured in a History Channel Show called “American DareDevils.”

He’s been chasing adrenalin around the country ever since, and appears every year in Butte for Evel Knievel Days in July.

These days, he breathes fire like a dragon – 10- to 15-foot flames – does the KaMaKaZiE Body Burn and runs through fire.

“I soak a cape in gasoline, put it on and light it on fire. I get a pretty decent, big gnarly 700-degree flame. But I have lots of safety gear,” he cautioned. (Don’t do this at home.)

“I am really stoked to come to West Yellowstone,” he added. “I’ve heard all about it and am super excited to check it out. I’m looking forward to meeting the folks.”

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