PRODUCwT Revie Dated Material February 2014 • Vol 39 No. 5
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SND Board Messages .................................................... 4-6 Region Reports .................................................................. 14
1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649 (701) 328-5377 • FAX: (701) 328-5363 www.snowmobilend.org President: Laura Forbes V. President: Sheri Hoffmann Executive Director: Keri Wanner Denise Sanzo: denises@lblprinting.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR/EDITOR Keri Wanner 1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649 (701) 328-5377 • FAX: (701) 328-5363 E-mail: info@snowmobilend.org
Staff
Publisher: Editor Graphic Designer: Marketing Specialists/ E-Magazine Designer: Production Engineers: Contributing Writers: Administrative Specialist:
Brian Gidley Keri Wanner Denise Sanzo
Features
Hallof Fame.......................................................... 8 Club Reports........................................................ 12 Product Review.................................................. 10
Cover Photo: Scott Tomlinson with Klim
where to go...
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Chelsey Thronson Sandy Durisin Clark Scheurman Josh Siferd Keith Moore Keri Wanner Tari Norby
CONTRIBUTORS: We welcome unsolicited materials and letters for possible publication. The Sno-Dak News accepts no responsibility for returns, losses or damage of unsolicited materials. The Sno-Dak News is the official publication of Snowmobile North Dakota. CF41, 9.SNO-DAK NEWS USPS 393-110) is published six times each year in the months of October, November, December, January, February and March at Bismarck, ND 58501. Periodicals postage paid at SUBSCRIPTION: Subscriptions available through membership to Snowmobile North Dakota for $20 per year. Enclose payment and mail to above mailing address. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: SNO-DAK NEWS 1600 E Century Avenue, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503-0649
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the
r e c i ff o postings That is my question to everyone who doesn’t belong to a club or doesn’t want to participate in the club they belong to. I have listened to people say it is a burden to belong or get involved because they are already busy and they will be required to do more work, so they don’t want to get involved. What they really don’t understand is what the club and associations do for them and the future. The clubs and associations work together as a team to come up with ideas to make the organization better so we can enjoy the outdoors. As we work together we are strong and fight for the love of the sport and by this legislation will listen to what we have to say. Remember there are groups out there that are against snowmobiling. Our goal is to advocate for public land use. Clubs and associations are unique. We help with charities, groom trails, assist with search and rescue, have fun runs, and take snowmobiling trips. We know how to have fun and promote safety. Snowmobiling is a family-oriented sport. Our clubs are the grass roots to success! I am going to leave with you the top 10 reasons to join a club by John T Prusak: 10. Snowmobile clubs gain land access to create snowmobile trails. Without the clubs securing land leases and paying insurance costs, no trails would cross private property, and that means the sport as we know it would not exist. All this takes time, effort and money. 9. Snowmobile clubs clear and create trails. After the land access is received, somebody has to go out and clear away the brush, cut down interfering limbs, haul out trash and smooth the base of the trail. They also must build bridges over creeks, rivers and low spots, and that takes a lot of work and a lot of money. This is all done by volunteers who truly love the sport. Without these hidden heros, 4
WHY JOIN A CLUB?
either the trails would not get cleared, bridges would not get built and most trails would close, or some entity (say, the state) would have to pay a team of workers to do the grunt work. And if that happened, you could expect to pay several hundred dollars, maybe even a thousand, to register your snowmobile each year. 8. In most areas, members of the snowmobile clubs groom the trails. Sometimes clubs groomer operators get a token fee for their hard work, but the dollar-per-hour rate is menial at best, and that’s when a groomer operator actually gets paid. Again, these are more of the hidden heroes who spend their time in a slowmoving groomer, tending to the trails and making them as smooth as they are. Remember, if you are not a club member you have no right to complain about trail conditions. 7. While we’re talking trails, who do you think puts up all the stop signs that tell you the distance to the next gas station or restaurant? If you said “the snowmobile clubs,” give yourself 10 points and keep reading, because we’ve only just begun. 6. When funding is needed to pay for groomers, insurance or trails development, do you know where that money comes from? Sure, the $15 or $20 people send to join a snowmobile club helps, but in most states the money comes from snowmobile registrations and gas tax rebates. Why does our sport get this from the state? Because our sport is organized. If the state snowmobiling association can talk about its 25,000 members, for example, and then those members call their local lawmakers and ask for support, the bill has a much better chance of getting funded. Furthermore, it is snowmobile clubs and state associations that fight the battles to open public lands to snowmobilers, and there is strength in numbers. Become one of those numbers.
Presid ent 5. With s o m e clubs and associations, membership brings financial benefits. I know I get a couple grand worth of accidental death and dismemberment insurance, I get discounts at sponsoring businesses and I get the state publication. All this and more, for a mere $15 a year. 4. Belonging to a club makes for better, safer snowmobiling. That’s right, surveys and accident statistics have shown that snowmobile club members have a much lower accident rate than non-club members. Why? Because club members tend to be conscientious, they tend to stress safety and they are aware of saferiding issues. 3. Belonging to a snowmobile club gives you a great social outlet for your favorite hobby. You can attend club rides, go to club meetings, take part in club fundraisers or take a club trip to a faraway snowmobiling destination. Belonging to a club gives you a good opportunity to ride with different people, experience different areas and hang out with people who have similar interests. 2. Belonging to a snowmobile club makes you a part of the solution instead of a part of the problem. If you think the snowmobile trails should be groomed more often, that a certain trail should move to the opposite side of the road or if you consider some corners on the trail dangerous or poorly marked, get involved. Most snowmobile clubs seek fresh opinions and want more feedback from users. 1. And the number one reason to join a snowmobile club: It’s just the right thing to do. For all the reasons listed above and many more, you should belong to a snowmobile club. The costs are minimal, the benefits are nice and it is your responsibility to support the sport. It’s cheap, it’s simple and it’s right.
Laura
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s ngr offpioc stie
Hello fellow snowmobilers. We are in the midst of another lean snow year. Then to add insult to injury, -20? Let’s hope for better days ahead. I hope you didn’t miss the 2013 convention in Grand Forks. I went on the bus trip to Polaris or Friday ton Direcneat e really v i afternoon. It was to see t u c e Ex the plant. Roseau, MN, population approximately 2600, is the original home of Polaris. The company originally built combine choppers. When we were up there, there were about 1600 people working (in shifts) at the plant. They have three production lines at the plant, building snowmobiles, side by sides, and 4-wheelers. They threw a lot of numbers at us on the tour and I don’t remember them all, but it was staggering the amount of materials they go through. The welding and paint departments run three shifts a day, using miles of welding wire and gallons of paint a year. There were pallets of motors, wheels, tires, tracks, any part you can think of. There was an overhead track system moving parts from one area to another, robots drilling holes, riveting, and spot welding tunnels, people working at stations along the assembly line, each “stop” on the line doing their part of the build. It was my first real tour of a manufacturing facility and it was well worth the trip.
Good day all! Another season with several loops around the state checking trails and meeting with area clubs is almost over. It still amazes me how much time and effort you volunteers put into your trail systems. The amount and quality of signing has continually improved to the point that I may not be needed anymore—Ha! All kidding aside, you all should be very proud of the good work you do to promote this great sport. The new point system for signing and benchmarks has generated some questions regarding loss of points due to missing some signs. It should be noted that the purpose of
As far as the rest of the convention, there were some highlights. We had a lively general meeting as there were some questions and concerns over the new funding program. Those issues have been addressed and/or are being addressed by the staff and the board and will soon be resolved. One issue I would like to pursue is the date of the convention. Back in the early 2000’s when Perry (Brintnell) and I first became involved with SND we expressed concern about the convention being held during harvest. About 90% of our club members farm or work in an ag-related industry and are generally unavailable in October and early November. I am going to go out on a limb and guess the overall percentage of SND members in the same boat is 75%. For those of you who don’t farm, harvest is the culmination of months of work. When it’s time to harvest, it’s time. We work 7 days a week, more than 8 hours a day. There’s no waiting until Monday or whatever. It is the time when the money is made and the bills are paid. The new program requires each club has representation at the general meeting. Clubs have already voiced concern over the date of convention 2014. It is set for the end of October in Minot. I believe a by-law change may be in order. Our convention should
the inspections is to ensure a safe enjoyable trail system. The most important thing we need to do is address areas needing attention as soon as possible after receiving the inspection report. Complete lack of signing will result in loss of points if not noted on the first benchmark form. The associations that put forth the effort to sign have little to be concerned about, provided that areas needing attention in the inspection report are addressed in a timely manner. This season has been busy as usual including a successful convention in Grand Forks. We had the largest
be held at a time that is not just convenient for people Vice Pr but actually esiden t fits into our livelihoods. The idea of sending a proxy was brought up. We have one general meeting a year and if I was to send a proxy, I might just as well not be on the board. Who would Perry & I send? I would like to see you tell a farmer’s wife she isn’t busy during harvest and she can go. In our case, harvest is our business. Are Neil & I supposed to tell our customers, “oh, sorry we can’t combine your corn this weekend. We have to go to the snowmobile convention.” Then it snows/rains/hails and their crop is still in the field. Who else can groom all day on a Wednesday or Thursday? Or run well into the night because they don’t have to report to work at 8am the following day? I know in our club it’s the farmer who runs the groomer. Judging by the questionnaire responses from the convention I’m preaching to the choir on this issue. Let’s see what we can do to fix it. Happy Trails!
Sheri turnout for sign class that we have ever had. The groomer classes were well Trail In specto attended as r well which is very nice to see. If I haven’t seen you in my travels this year, I certainly hope I get the chance. Ride Safe!
Todd
offpioc egrs stin
the
February 2014
place to snowmobile. The staff cares because all of us won’t settle for anything less than success providing opportunities to the volunteers, members, clubs, trail associations and of course snowmobilers.
I’ve spent countless hours researching the snowmobile industry and non-profits. I was taught to practice what you preach and to educate myself before I speak. All of this has helped me develop the career I have today but the two most valuable tools I learned came with experience. These tools included showing people I truly care about what I do and building relationships. These are usually the two tools that are taken for granted the most and they are two key components in any business including non-profits. Volunteers and members set-up and maintain trail, host events and fundraise because they care about snowmobiling being a part of their communities. The team of elected SND Board members is chosen because these individuals cared enough to represent snowmobiling at a local and statewide level. The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department cares because they have been selected to provide consumers a
All snowfla kes have 6 sides. 6
There is no way I can show you the countless ways all of us care in this one page article; or even explain the numerous stories I’ve heard from around the state on how individuals have went above and beyond to assist the state snowmobile program. But I can tell you that everything produced by the state snowmobile program is not done without sometimes years of research and monitoring entailing countless phone calls, emails and training. Everything is carefully evaluated before it usually even graces the hands of the Board of Directors to ensure we are presenting the best possible information for discussion and implementation. All of this is done to ensure snowmobiling remains a successful business in North Dakota and because all of us care. The new funding program for the state snowmobile trail system, although a change meaning some new requirements to get used too, was developed with the direction of two years of research, a recommendation from the 2013-2017 State Snowmobile Program Strategic Plan and because the snowmobile program closed last biennium with a $40 thousand deficit. It was decided if we wanted to see this recreation continue in the state, a new plan had to be developed because the program would only operate so long on the current format before there was no money to give. All involved cared too much to allow that to happen and so began the restructuring of the benchmark program.
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The state snowmobile program couldn’t have done all of this without building relationships. It’s our goal to make sure each of the state Trail Coordinators elected by the Trail Associations feel confident they can call the office and get their questions answered and do the best we can to assist as much as possible. We have chosen to build those relationships by processing paperwork within two weeks, being available after hours and contacting trail systems when we know a deadline is coming up and we haven’t received paperwork because we want all of you to succeed. We do our best to gain your trust because we care and we follow this example throughout every sector of SND business, trail related or not. We listened to all of the recommendations provided during the annual meeting regarding the new funding program and we greatly appreciate the suggestions. To continue providing this same type of service, the entire month of December was spent addressing these concerns and developing solutions that were presented to the Board of Directors for review and approval. This was done because all of us care about the work you do on the state snowmobile program and to continue building the relationships we have worked so hard to establish. Thank you and we look forward to continue working with all of you on making this a great snowmobiling state.
Keri
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February 2014
10 Cash Prizes Awarded at State Ride $2,500, $1,000, $500 - Friday, February 7, 2014 $2,000, $1,000, $500 - Saturday, February 2014 $1,000, $750, $500, $250 - Sunday, February 9, 2014
10 Ca sh Pri $2,50 zes A 0, $1 ward ,000, ed at $2,00 $500 State 0, $1 - Frid Ride ,000, $1,00 ay, Fe $500 0, $7 bruary : - Satu 50, $ 500, 7, 20 rday, $250 14 Febru - Sun 2,000 ary 2 day, F Tick 014 If ebrua 10 Ctiasnhot all tic ets Avail ry 9, able. kets me oPrizes A 2014 f w ade redsat $2,500, old a te $1,000, the firstar t thR rawin Sta Drawin w$5 e ide: ill00 - Frdid $2,000, b g g in Wal e ay , , Fe p ze p $1,000, halla, N s 7, 20 ry $500 - Sro-rated. brriua eed n LiN $1,000, ce 14 aturday, o#: t be 4 $750, $5 presense February 00, $250 nt to 26 1 Ticke 2014 - Sunda w in t equa . y, Februa ls 1 C 2,000 Ti ry 9, 2014 ckets Ava hanc If not all e ilable. tic time of th kets are sold at e first dr the Need no will be pr awing, prizes t be o-rated. present to win 1
$10/ticket • 2,000 tickets 10 Cash Drawings over the course of 3 days!
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Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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Hall Fame of
Dennis Gravseth
Dennis was one of the original members of the Metigoshe Family Snowmobile Club that was instrumental with starting the trail system that has grown in the Turtle Mountains. He helped with fundraisers, state rides, legislation rides and implementing gas tax to help fund the state snowmobile trail system. Dennis earned charter member status with the Roaring 20’s snowmobile club, which keeps the trails going today. He has been involved in every aspect of snowmobiling teaching safety classes, working on state rides through the Turtle Mountains, raising money for Special Olympics, and most recently volunteering as a guide for the Pink Ribbon Riders ND Snow Run. Dennis also served as the original guide and marker for the international rides. In the 90’s he helped the club raise funds through an annual Turkey Roast providing funding for warming houses and gates through the Turtle Mountain trail system. Dennis always has and continues to work with the land owners to make a trail system that everyone can travel safe on and enjoy. Dennis was involved as an officer in different positions and was a trail coordinator several times through the years with the Metigoshe Family Snowmobile Club. The club did more than just maintaining the trail system. It helped raise money for the community, fire departments, ambulance and giving snowmobiles away to kids and adults through numerous raffles. The Roaring 20’s club took over the trail system in the late 90’s. Dennis still works with the trails and will always be there to clean and mark trails, with safety and enjoyment in mind for all those that enjoy the sport of snowmobiling!
. . . w o n S Think The average snowflake falls 3.1 miles per hour
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Photo Credits: Bear Lodge Resort Facebook Page
Northern Big Horn Mountains Bear Lodge, Arrowhead Lodge & Elk View Inn.
with 1on1 Interview with Roberta Young on the Northern Big Horn Mountains The Sno-Dak News took the opportunity to chat one on one with Roberta, owner Bear Lodge, Arrowhead Lodge and Elk View Inn.
Sno-Dak News (SDN): Why did you choose the Northern Big Horns as your home and place of business? Roberta Young (RY): Rick and I both grew up in Upstate New York, in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. When Rick joined the Air Force, one of the first places we were stationed was FE Warren AFB in Cheyenne, Wyoming. While there in our free time we did a lot of hunting and traveling around the State. Rick always said that when he retired from the Air Force, we’re coming back to Wyoming - because of the people and because the climate and recreation we enjoy is here. SDN: How many lodges are located in the Northern Big Horns? RY: There are four lodges including Bear Lodge, Arrowhead Lodge, Elk View Inn, and Wyoming High Country. SDN: What customer services are provided by the lodges located in the Northern Big Horns? RY: Lodging, Gasoline, Full Service Restaurant, on and off-site catering, BarLounge, Meeting Rooms, Indoor Pool, Hot Tub, Coin Operated Laundry, Snowmobile & ATV Rentals and Guided Tours. Burgess Junction Rescue is also based at Bear Lodge. SDN: What type of lodging services do you offer? RY: We offer motel rooms with varied configurations, condo-duplex units, rustic cabins, and RV & tent sites. SDN: What makes each lodge stand out from the other? RY: Each Lodge has its own personality. Arrowhead has a reputation for a quiet cozy setting. Bear Lodge is a fun, action filled property starting with a dining room full of enthusiastic guests discussing their recreation and travel plans for the day. The TV’s in the Bears Den Bar often set the mood with sports and recreation videos playing all while awesome staff serves drink favorites to its guests. In the mornings recreationists line up in front of the lodge to leave on their “ride” for the day. Often those scheduled to check out in a given day are either hesitant to end their play and choose to stay another day or they express a healthy worn-out need to go home and rest up for their next trip. Elk View Inn is a newer property with 48 motel rooms and a condo unit, a beautiful log dining room and bar-lounge. It is also a fun filled atmosphere and a becoming a favorite choice of many travelers.
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Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
11
s w e N b Clu
February 2014
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Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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Jesse Fritz Region 2 Update Hello All! My name is Jesse Fritz and I’m the newly elected Region 2 board member. I write to you from warm and sunny Rugby, ND where its currently T-shirt weather and 14 degrees above zero. I am currently employed at Rugby MFG where I’m a full time welder. My lovely wife Jessica is an elementary teacher and also coaches girls volleyball and track. We have three boys; Kristian (9) Kiefer (5) and Kash (6 months). My oldest two enjoy riding snowmobiles as much as anybody. We are lucky enough to have a large yard and my boys have the corners down to the dirt often on their self-constructed “snocross track”. We are members of the Northern Lights Trailblazers association where I have served as treasurer, groomer operator and assisted with the many events we’ve hosted. I was even presented with SND’s “Snowmobiler of the Year” award for the 2010-2011 year! We are a very busy family and are always on the go. When the snow goes away late in April, we trade our thumb throttles for twist throttles and tear up the motocross scene across the state. I’ve found motocross to be a good way to stay in shape during the off-season and when the snow flies my body feels as though it’s still been hit by a truck. As many of you, my passion for snowmobiles started as a youth. Growing up, my family didn’t have much money and the thought of someday owning a sled was definitely a dream. Fortunately a few of my close buddies always had sleds and I was an eager passenger. Early on, I can remember riding in dad’s truck on his delivery service route and being excited just to see snowmobile tracks in the ditch, envisioning myself as the rider who made those tracks. Dad’s delivery service brought us through Bottineau where at one time there were
four different snowmobile dealerships. If we had extra time, we’d stop in and grab a brochure and look to see what used machines they had. I remember being in love with the Polaris Indy Lite and Arctic Cat Puma, perfect beginners sleds. Then, in December of 1992 Mom and Dad bought my first machine, a 1976 Arctic Cat Pantera 5000 complete with two gas tanks, a “lightweight aluminum frame” and the best suspension a guy could ask for, well maybe not that good. Dad thought it was a little overpowered so he took a chunk of rubber hose, cut it in half and taped it around the handlebar with electrical tape limiting the machine to about 1/2 throttle. But, it didn’t matter because I finally had one of my own and couldn’t have been happier. It was still a rocket and got me around the 10 acre lot where I logged countless laps. Fast forward to present day. The machines are totally different, technology is incredible, but the excitement for the first storm and making tracks is the same as it was 25 years ago. I still get excited while driving down the highway and come upon a group of snowmobilers wondering where they’re going and where they’ve been. I look forward to working with everyone at SND making sure our trail system is the best it can be and continuing the dream of snowmobiling for years to come! Thank you to everyone who helped with the 2013 State Convention. It went over smoothly. My family and I had a great time. I encourage everyone to attend these events, as there is something to do for everyone. As part of this year’s convention weekend fun, several SND members went to Roseau, MN and got a tour of the Polaris factory. Our guide, Nathan Anderson, was very informative and answered our many questions. He said parts for the 2015 models were virtually behind one wall and we were that close of getting a glimpse of machines constructed of glue.
For those of you headed out west this year in Avalanche Country please keep a few things in mind: - Read the Avalanche advisory for the area you plan to ride and understand the condition of the snowpack. - At a minimum, Always carry a beacon, shovel and probes. Without these tools you won’t be able to find a buried friend. - Travel one at a time in sketchy avalanche zones. Do not attempt to help a stuck friend on a slope. They are on their own. -There is no such thing as a bad day riding. Adjust your riding to the conditions and bring everyone home safely. NLTB Club Happenings: February 22nd - Bunny Run February 23rd - Family Day Vintage Run - TBD
Brian Sauer Region 3 Update Hello fellow snowmobilers! Well, convention is over and this year it was in Grand Forks, very cold but was a good time overall. Lots of people from around the state but not too many from our area. Hope to improve attendance from the northeast at the next convention. It’s definitely winter now, 25 below but we still do not have enough snow to groom in the Northeast. This year our west groomer’s new trail coordinator is Jon Iverson. He took the job over from Wayne Aune this year. Wayne had been the coordinator for years and did a very good job. Thanks Wayne! When the groomer was taken out of storage and moved to Jon’s, we noticed a few issues. These are now fixed and the groomer is just waiting for a four-inch base of snow! Our signing is almost complete. We did have some major washouts in the Gorge but we sent an excavator in and they were repaired. We have one spot yet to fix or relocate the trail but otherwise it is ready to go. 13
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February 2014
www.snowmobilend.org
continued on page 13 This year the state ride is in Walhalla on Feb 8. Watch for further information. The next time you go riding, be sure to take a youngster with you. In order to keep our clubs going across the state, it is necessary to bring in new, young blood. If you know of someone who rides but does not belong to a snowmobile club, bring them to a meeting so they can see what the local clubs do for the snowmobile trails and how important membership is to the local clubs. If you went to the convention, you already know about the new point system. A portion of the trail money disbursed to associations will be based upon points earned. Be sure to read Sno-Dak News for more information regarding details of the new point system. Happy riding - hope to see you on the trails!
Travis t t e n n e B Universal Repair, Inc. 701-282-3997
Kristie Thone Region 5 Update We have just completed the first grooming of our trail system and it went great. The trail set up nicely and we have a great base to start. Hopefully we will receive more snow, for now we will do the snow dance every day and hope. State Convention went great. Eight more groomer operators were certified for our region. This should help relieve some pressure on the current four groomer operators. Thanks to all who stepped up and came to the classes. All who were certified groomers also attended the signing class. With the changes in signing we all took in the signing class this year. Change is good. I appreciate all of the hard work it took to put the convention together. People with similar interests coming together to make the trail system better. On Friday we also had the opportunity
Greetings again from the frozen North. After a brutally cold start to the season, we are finally picking up enough snow to get in some serious riding. Record-setting cold in December seems to have kept most riders indoors, where it’s warm. We are only a few days away from the North Dakota State Ride, which is being held in Walhalla this year. Those of you who have never ridden in the Northeast corner should make a point of attending the State Ride, as this corner has
to tour the Polaris production plant In Roseau, MN. Bus Trip from Grand Forks and back was a blast and many new friendships were formed. Thank you to everyone who helped put this trip together. The tour was awesome and something we will definitely do again. We are planning some group rides, and events this year. Become a Facebook friend and like the pages for Red River Sno-Riders and Rural Cass Snowmobile Club. This will keep you informed of any upcoming events or changes and connect you to others who appreciate snowmobiling as much as you do. As we move into the new year and plan for our events that are upcoming I wish everyone a safe, fun, and prosperous 2014. Maybe this is the year I win the lottery. I will let you all know if I do!
some unique riding opportunities not found other places in the state. North Dakota Parks and Recreation recently rehabilitated approximately 6 miles of the trail through the scenic Pembina Gorge. I hope to see a lot of you out on the trails in February and March. Hopefully the weather will be more conducive to riding than it was in December.
www.universalrepair.net Manager Darvis Sommer
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Snowmobile Salvage Cylinder Sleeving Crank Shaft Rebuilding
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Just for Fun!
Hot Chocolate Cake in a Cup Ingredients: – Cooking spray – Chocolate cake batter – Marshmallow creme
February 2014
How to make it. Simply coat the insides of oven safe mugs with cooking spray, then fill the mugs halfway with chocolate cake batter. We used a mix for German chocolate cake, which is a lighter color than regular chocolate cake and looks more like hot cocoa.
Advertiser’s In
dex
Johnson’s Sp orts................... ..... 3 Joe’s Sport Ce nter................. ...... 3 KX-Sport.......... ........................ ..... 7 Moritz............. ........................ ....... 7 SkiDoo............. ........................ ..... 2 SND State Ride ......................... ... 7 Spearfish Cany on...................... .. 9 Track.............. ........................ ....... 9 Universal Repa ir...................... .. 14 Yamaha........... ........................ ... BC
Follow the cupcake baking instructions on the cake mix package. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center of one comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Allow the cakes to cool for about 15 minutes. Top each mug with a generous dollop of marshmallow creme and serve with a spoon. One cake mix makes enough batter for 12 of our mugs; if you want fewer than a dozen, bake the remaining batter in a small pan.
E-Magazine Highlights
Calendar
1on1 continued
Young on the N orther Horn Mountain n Big s ISOC Update
SND State Ride: ND February 8, 2014 – Walhalla, International Ride: February 15, 2014 SnowJam: , ND February 15, 2014 – Mapleton
with Roberta
USXC Update Divas SnowGea r Partner Parts Canada s with Polaris Anno Organizationa unces l Change
Published by Snowmobile North Dakota - An Organization of North Dakota Snowmobile Clubs
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Visit your nearest Yamaha dealer or PRO Yamaha dealer today. For more on PRO Yamaha dealers, visit yamaha-snowmobiles.com.
PRO YAMAHA DEALERS T’S TEAM YAMAHA 509 11TH ST W BOTTINEAU, ND TSTEAMYAMAHA.COM
REVOLUTIONS POWER SPORTS, INC. 4225 36TH AVE SOUTH GRAND FORKS, ND REVOLUTIONSPOWERSPORTS.COM
VALLELY SPORT & MARINE 2125 ELK DRIVE MINOT, ND VALLELYMARINE.COM
U MOTORS, INC. 217 38TH ST S FARGO, ND UMOTORSINC.COM
VALLELY SPORT & MARINE 2800 E BISMARCK EXPY BISMARCK, ND VALLELYMARINE.COM
SND Officers
SND Staff
PRESIDENT Laura Forbes 45 Rolling Hills Dr Minot, ND 58703 701-839-1050 dlforbes@min.midco.net
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Keri Wanner 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) keri@snowmobilend.org
VICE PRESIDENT Sheri Hoffmann 4320 Camp Ave Larimore, ND 58251 701-397-5260 nwhoff@polarcomm.com DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE Marty Malachowski 4198 13th St NW Lot 33 Garrison, ND 58540 701-337-2350 lmmala@srt.com
ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST Tari Norby 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) tari@snowmobilend.org
Beaver Valley Sno-Goer’s Dan Tveito PO Box 394 Linton, ND 58552 701-254-4433
Magic City Driftbusters Laura Forbes PO Box 1094 Minot, ND 58702 701-839-1050
Cattail Snoriders Ben Gullicks 931 142nd Ave SE Galesburg, ND 58035 701-3712165
Marion Snoriders Kevin Isakson 10510 63rd St SE Litchville, ND 58461 701-883-5315
Dakota Trailblazers Sherman Pladsen PO Box 1012 Minot, ND 58702 701-720-9501
May-Port Sno Travelers Greg Thykeson Box 221 Portland, ND 58274 701-371-6582
Flatland Trailblazers Dave Seltvedt 2363 46th Ave NE Harvey, ND 58341 701-324-2698
Minto Area Joy Riders Trevor Slominski PO Box 111 Minto, ND 58261
Gasmann Coulee Cruisers Crystll Kuhnhenn PO Box 14 Burlington, ND 58722 701-833-1697
Moonlighters Snowmobile & ATV Club Randy Barta 9453 104th Ave NE Langdon, ND 58249 701-256-4037
Jim River Driftskippers Gene Leininger 3181 Hwy 281 SE Jamestown, ND 58401 701-320-3631
Mouse River Sled Runners Anthony Best PO Box 523 Towner, ND 58788 701-537-0500 Nekoma Trailblazers Bob Wilhelmi 212 Main St Nekoma, ND 58355 701-949-2781 North Valley Riders Mark Briese 14399 County Rd 3 St. Thomas, ND 58276 701-257-6448
Brian Sauer 1405 9th Ave. E Langdon, ND 58249 701-370-9019 bnc@utma.com
Byron Norsby PO Box 914 Minot, ND 58702 701-728-6688 outbackautobody@srt.com
REGION 4 Shawn Cole 2055 W Main St Valley City, ND 58072 701-840-1663 scole@csicable.net
REGION 2 Mark Shipley PO Box 493 Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-6896 marley493@yahoo.com
Todd Rasmusson 6340 Valley Rd Lisbon, ND 58054 701-678-2862 tnrasmusson@drtel.net
Jesse Fritz 20 Country Rd Rugby, ND 58368 701-208-1253 screemn80@hotmail.com REGION 3 Perry Brintnell 12668 57th St NE Fordville, ND 58231 701-331-1096 xcr600pb@polarcomm.com
Clubs
2013-2014
Little Missouri Snowmobile & ATV Club Mike Storley 1491 1st Ave E Dickinson, ND 58601
REGION 1 Dale Deibert PO Box 99 Surrey, ND 58785 701-721-9378 vdeibert@srt.com
TRAIL INSPECTOR Todd Thronson 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) todd@snowmobilend.org MARKETING SPECIALIST Chelsey Thronson 1600 E Century Ave, Suite 3 Bismarck, ND 58503 701-328-5377 701-328-5363 (F) chelsey@snowmobilend.org
Lake Region Mark Shipley PO Box 981 Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-739-8263
Board of Directors
Northern Exposure Snowmobile Club Nick Parslow 403 Washington St Bisbee, ND 58317 701-793-4956 Northern Lights Trailblazers Joanie Bruggeman PO Box 191 Rugby, ND 58368 701-681-1361
Red River Snowmobile Club Steve Magnuson 225 Plain Hills Dr Grand Forks, ND 58201 701-746-5370 Ridge Runners Perry Brintnell PO Box 132 Fordville, ND 58231 701-331-1096
Kristie Thone 307 Dakota Ave Horace, ND 58047 701-277-8709 thone13@gmail.com
2013-2014 Roaring 20’s Loren Johnson 61 Green Acres Ave Bottineau, ND 58318 701-228-4272 Rough Rider Snowmobile Association Al Hossel PO Box 4162 Bismarck, ND 58502 701-391-8713
Rural Cass Pembina Hills Trail Riders Snowmobile Club Tod Soeby Jason McSparron PO Box 825 PO Box 58 Walhalla, ND 58282 Casselton, ND 58012 701-549-3711 Sargent County Ransom County Snowmobile Club Driftskippers Aaron Lyon Shane Radtke 620 7th Ave 101 Main St Milnor, ND 58060 Lisbon, ND 58054 701-640-1251 Red River Sno-Riders Kristi Thone PO Box 2295 Fargo, ND 58108 701-277-8709
REGION 5 Victor Evjen 7604 Brink Dr Horace, ND 58047 701-429-1657 evjen2008@gmail.com
Seldom Seen Snowmobile Club Scott Gailfus PO Box 25 Rock Lake, ND 58365 701-370-0524 Sheyenne Sno-Drifters Joel Iverson PO Box 342 Valley City, ND 58072 701-845-2565 Sno-Busters Drew Courtney 9425 103rd Ave SE Oakes, ND 58474 701-490-0824
Southern Valley Trail Riders Association JD Link 17290 78th St SE Wahpeton, ND 58075 701-640-8061 Tri-County Snow Dusters Bev Bachmeier 10517 55th St NE Brocket, ND 58321 Tri-County Trailriders Christian Larson PO Box 55 Park River, ND 58270 701-284-6207 Turtle River Roughriders Brandon Thorvilson PO Box 131 Manvel, ND 58256 218-791-9818 Valley Snow Drifters Gene Loftsgard 125 Manvel Circle Grafton, ND 58237 701-360-0380 Walsh Coulee Cruisers Chad Lindell 7101 123rd Ave NE Adams, ND 58210 701-331-2459 Williston Trail Riders Russel Wyman PO Box 235 Williston, ND 58802 701-570-7355
2013-2014 Ackerman Acres Resort 318 Shelvers Place Devils Lake, ND 58301
Crocus View Farms 6931 88th ST NE Rock Lake, ND 58365 701-303-0143
Action Motor Sports 1417 38th Ave SE Mandan, ND 58554 701-667-4524
D Bar P Bumpers 7601 128th Ave NE Glenburn, ND 58740 701-728-6828
Bearcat’s Den 1303 3rd Ave Cando, ND 58324 701-739-7792
Dakota Outdoors 949 2nd Ave N Grand Forks, ND 58203 701-215-0641
Blake Angus Ranch 7495 85th St NE Egeland, ND 58331 701-230-2308
Donna’s Diner 604 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2013
Boehmer Snowmobile Repair 9446 62nd St NE Lawton, ND 58345
Earl’s Bar 115 Central Ave Leeds, ND 58346 701-466-2770
C&L Electric PO Box 217 Munich, ND 58352 701-370-1555
Emery Visto Imp. 1009 S 7th St Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2167
Calio Bar 108 Calio St Munich, ND 58352 701-682-5360
Flyway Bar 107 Railroad Ave Webster, ND 58382
Cando Bar & Grill PO Box 682 Cando. ND 58324 701-968-3412 Computer Express 505 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2632
Gary Beck Farm 8050 83rd St NE Munich, ND 58352 701-370-2006 Hampden-Edmore Cooperative PO Box 126 Hampden, ND 58388
Associate Members HWY MVP 209 Hwy 2 SE Rugby, ND 58368 701-776-5346
Marketplace Motors 332 Hwy 2 W Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-7571
Indian Triumph of Fargo 2745 Main Ave Fargo, ND 58103 701-277-4584
Mertz Lumber 715 S 7th S Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-9663
Keller Paving & Landscaping Inc. 1820 Hwy 2 Bypass E Minot, ND 58701 701-852-5030 Ken’s Auto Inc. 95 N 2nd St Strasburg, ND 58573 701-776-5346 KJ’s Bar 137 Main St leeds, ND 58346 701-4662045 Klemestrud Plumbing, Heating & Air Cond. PO Box 648 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Kvalevog Drywall & Painting 8210 52nd St NE Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-4459 Leevers Foods 323 5th St NE Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-662-4945
Mike’s Body, Paint & Glass, Inc. PO Box 328 Towner, ND 58788 701-537-5770 Moritz Sport & Marine 2540 Marina Rd SE Mandan, ND 58554 701-222-2000 Mostad Insurance 824 3rd St Langdon, ND 58249 701-256-2253 Napa 803 7th St S Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2192 Napa Auto Parts 515 College Dr N Devils Lake, ND 58301 Nicholas W. Miles PO Box 122 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Outback Autobody PO Box 914 Minot, ND 58702 701-837-1890
2013-2014 Pain Reliever 212 Main St Nekoma, ND 58355 Praskas Hardware Hank 19 S 5th St Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-2034
St. Michel Furniture 137 Main Ave S Rugby, ND 58368 701-776-5887 Stenson Farms 6533 99th St NE Rock Lake, ND 58365 701-266-5399
Revolutions Power Sports 4225 36th Ave S Grand Forks, ND 58201 701-746-4997
Taras Thrifty White 610 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-3824
Roughrider HarleyDavidson 3708 Memorial Hwy Mandan, ND 58554 701-663-2220
The Glass Shop 319 S College Dr Devils Lake, ND 58301 701-351-3342
Schwan Wholesale PO Box 710 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Shake N Bake 502 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-3036 South Dakota Snowmobile Association PO Box 206 Gary, SD 57237 South Dakota Wheat Growers 600 7th St S Oakes, ND 58474 701-+742-2149
Walhalla Inn Box 94 Walhalla, ND 58282 Wheels Inc. 432 36th St S Fargo, ND 58103 701-235-6459 Wild Rose Foral & Enchanted Events 5002 Main Ave Oakes, ND 58474 701-742-3316 Wright Place Bar & Grill 124 Main St Egeland, ND 58365 701-266-5121
Become an associate member for only $31 a season! BENEFITS INCLUDE:
FREE business listing in six issues n o A mo n o i t i of the Sno-Dak n g le subs nthly Reco owmobi cript News in both the n t a o S ion t o t e h k e th a S D printed version and n h o-Da Nort bsite k N e ws the e-magazine We TO BECOME AN ASSOCIATE MEMBER
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[1 on 1] with
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Northern Big Horn Mountains
Bear Lodge, Arrowhead Lodge & Elk View Inn SDN: What types of recreations are featured in the Northern Big Horns? RY: Over 300 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and a wide variety of terrain for off-trail riding; including logging roads, wide open meadows, hills of all sizes and extreme cornices; catering to every level of rider ability. Summer ATV Trails take riders beside mountain streams, through wooded areas, and often through areas which are a popular grazing area for moose, elk, and mule deer. Groomed cross country ski trails, blue ribbon fishing, hunting, hang gliding, paramotor, kite skiing, mountain bikes, horseback riding, mountain lakes for canoeing and kayaks, hiking, wildflower studies, geological studies, and more. There are activities for all ages and all types of interests to get outdoors and have fun. SDN: What do you recommend every customer should bring to make their experience better? RY: Proper layers of clothing to maintain body temperature to safely enjoy the sport or activity of their choice, along with the proper equipment, and a camera to have the memories to relive their experiences and to share them with others. SDN: How many guides do you offer and what guiding services do they provide? RY: We have eight part time guides. Our guides know the mountain and can safely get riders to the areas of riding ability they desire. They are First Aid and CPR trained, love to ride and experience the mountains themselves, and most are members of Burgess Junction Rescue. SDN: What kind of equipment do you rent and where are the rentals located? RY: We proudly rent Polaris snowmobiles - which are based at Bear Lodge. Our Polaris ATV rental fleet is based at Elk View Inn. We also offer clothing rentals for all seasons; individual items or a full set. Helmets are required and included as part of all rentals; however, many guests bring their own. SDN: What point of interest located in the Northern Big Horns is a must see when recreationalists visit the area?
RY: There are just so many unique and beautiful places to see - and it really depends on the time of year. Twin Buttes, Steamboat Rock, Bucking Mule Falls, Porcupine Falls, Devils Canyon, Shell Canyon, Shell Falls, Tye Flume, and Medicine Wheel are a few favorites that come to mind. SDN: What is the biggest event you host in the area? RY: We host Jeep Jamboree USA, Tour‘d Wyoming, and Poker Runs to name a few, but probably the biggest even is our Annual Bad Boys Riding Club Raffle held in November each year with a $10,000 Grand Prize. SDN: What is the Bad Boys Club? RY: Twelve years ago, a group of extreme riders decided to form an organization to raise funds to support Burgess Junction Rescue - a non-profit emergency first responder service. Burgess Junction Rescue and the Bear Lodge Bad Boys Riding Club both are part of the Northern Big Horn Mountain Recreation Association which is also a non-profit group started in the 1990’s. These organizations work to promote and serve the recreationists in the Northern Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming. SDN: How do you go above and beyond to show customers the lodge and staff care about their experience while they stay with you? RY: I guess I don’t really think of it as above and beyond, it’s just who we are, and we’re doing what we enjoy. We try to welcome our guests and make them feel part of our Mountain Family. Our goal is to have them enjoy the beauty of the mountains, area, and lodge experiences during their time here. Our employees enjoy the area and the people that visit too. They enjoy visiting and know that part of their jobs is to ensure our guests have a memorable experience and that they’ll want to return and bring others with them. Up until the last few years, Rick would ride approximately 5,000 miles a winter season with guests to be sure they got a true mountain experience. He enjoys hunting too and sharing his experiences. We try to ride with our guests, whether it be on snowmobile or ATV and love to watch their faces when we round another corner or crest a hill top and they see the views. A never tiring phrase we often hear is, “Wow. You live out here all year? This is beautiful!” Yes, it truly is beautiful and we are fortunate to have picked this part of the world to live in. Our mountain regulars make guests feel welcome and don’t hesitate to give them advice on the area and answer their questions. It’s neat to watch expressions when the door opens and return guests walk in. SDN: What is your favorite meal at each one of the lodges? RY: Breakfast Buffet at Bear Lodge with Big Mike’s Action Station or a Ribeye Steak. The hand pressed burger at Arrowhead Lodge and the chicken quesadilla or the mouthwatering pork chop with spicy apple chutney at Elk View Inn. SDN: Who is Big Mike? RY: Big Mike has been at Bear Lodge for over 24 Years; in fact we like to word it “He came with the Lodge” and is a part of the history! He is known for his “PR” as he charms the guests and employees with his Arkansas accent as he tells a joke or talks about the history of the mountain,
where the animals can probably be seen that day, what the hunters and fisherman have shown him, which direction he’d recommend driving off the mountain and sites to see along the way. He prides himself on making pies, soups, and his morning Action Station featuring belgium waffles, eggs, and omelets. He is famous for his saying, “Pie Fixes Everything”, or going to a table of hungry guests and saying, “Boys, you don’t get much to eat at home, do you?” and then laughs knowing he’s going to make sure they don’t leave hungry. He has a vast knowledge of the mountain, the people, the area, the lodges, and the mountain happenings & history. SDN: When did you get the contract with the State of Wyoming to manage the state snowmobile trails? RY: The 2013-2014 is our seventh season of grooming. SDN: Roughly how many hours does you staff spend preparing the snowmobile trail system for each season? RY: We usually spend five days staking and signing the trails at the beginning of the winter season, and five days taking signs and stakes down at the close of the season. Other than the actual grooming, most other trail upkeep is done by State Employees with Wyoming State Trails. SDN: How many groomer operators do you employ to maintain the state snowmobile trail and how do they plan their grooming schedules to ensure excellent trail riding? RY: There are four drivers. Rick sets up the schedules and makes changes and reroutes as needed. SDN: What types of snowmobile riding is featured in the Northern Big Horns? RY: One of the main attractions of the Big Horns is the wide variety of riding; groomed trails, boon-docking, open meadow powder, extreme climbing, and high-marking. SDN: If there is one thing you could tell people on why they should come visit, what would it be? RY: To experience the beauty of the Northern Big Horn Mountains and enjoy the many things they have to offer. As you enter Wyoming, most of the Welcome to Wyoming signs say, “Like No Place On Earth”. The unique terrain offers beautiful experiences in a part of the United States that almost seems undiscovered. We want visitors to come and enjoy the area with us and help us discover a legendary experience that will last for a lifetime; enticing visitors to want more! SDN: How can customers contact and learn more about the lodges and their services? RY: The most popular is through our websites: www.bearlodgeresort.com, www. arrowheadlodgewyoming.com, www.elkviewinn.com, find us on Facebook, contact us through Email: mtnswin@hotmail.com, leave a voice mail on 307-751-7444 requesting information, or call Bear Lodge 307-752-2444 / 307-752-5444, or 307-752-8444. Roberta thanks for your time and sharing your amazing stories on a beautiful area that should be a vacation destination for all recreationalists seeking adventures.
Yamaha Racers Post Strong Results in Hayward; Henry Wins X Games Bronze Pleasant Prairie, WI – The eye’s of the world were honed in on the slopes of Aspen, Colorado this past weekend, as Winter X Games 2014 brought together the best extreme athletes in the world for a competition only rivaled by the Olympics. Amongst them was adaptive snocross athlete and motocross legend Doug Henry. With special modification made to his Yamaha SR Viper RTX snowmobile, Doug rallied late in the final to pass Jim Wazny and earn the bronze medal at the line. The medal certainly wasn’t a first for the long-time Yamaha athlete who is perhaps best known for being the rider to first win an outdoor national motocross championship in 1998 aboard a Yamaha YZ400F. The bronze marked Doug’s sixth medal in X Games competition, with four coming from Winter X and two more at Summer X. While many of the world’s top snowmobile racers were at Winter X, several Yamaha independent riders were battling the elements in Hayward, Wisconsin in round two action of the COR Powersports cross-country series. The regional series is known for its demanding natural terrain courses, and Hayward proved to be all that and more, as sub-zero temperatures and wind gust in excess of 30-mph further challenged racers. Highlights from the weekend include a strong showing from Pro Women’s racer Sarah Wiedmeyer, who captured the win in Women’s, a second in the Trail class, and a third overall in Vet 30. Matching Sarah’s efforts was last year’s rookie of the year Mitch Sebastian, who grabbed a pair of second place runs in Junior 16-17 and the 85
classes with his Phazer. Mitch also joined his father to snag another second place finish in the Team class aboard a Yamaha SR Viper. Other Yamaha racers with strong showings included: a fourth place finish by Justin Steck in Pro Open; a second place run by Dusty Bodine in Sport Stock; and a fifth place in Vet30 by Seth Thorson. Up next is the legendary Soo I-500, where Yamaha is one of the favorites to win it all. Follow all the action throughout the season at facebook.com/ YamahaSnowmobilesUSA and youtube.com/user/YamahaSnowmobilesUSA
USXC Gets Kids In On the Act with Mini I-500 & 250 Events Two Special Races Announced for 120 Competitors at I-500 and Walker Sites The tradition in cross country snowmobile racing has been to start them off young and that legacy continues in 2014 at two USXC Racing venues. USXC has added two special race events to the schedule geared directly at kids on 120cc sleds to give them a taste of real cross country competition. On Saturday, February 8, 2014, during the Seven Clans I-500 race in Thief River Falls, there will be a special “Mini I-500” held. The course will be one mile in length and racers will complete five total laps in a test of kid and machine. Winners of the Mini I-500 race will receive a one night stay at Seven Clans Casino Water Park including six water park passes and a $50 gift from Recreational Motorsports. Then, at the year-end Moondance Jam 100 race in Walker, MN on March 8, kids will again be able to test
their riding skills in the “Mini I-250.” The Walker course will be a quarter mile in length and racers will battle through another five laps in pursuit of the checkers. Four classes will be available for racers at each of the two events. The classes will be made up of two age groups, 6-8 and 9-12 years old. Racers in the two age groups can choose to compete in Improved Stock, which allows for open gearing on an otherwise stock 120, and the Pro 206 class, where the big Briggs & Stratton four strokes make their home. Race entry fees are only $37.50 and additional information can be found on the USXC website at usxcracing.com. Last year’s Yamaha Junior 1013 class points champ, Ean Voigt cut his racing teeth aboard a 120Z Arctic Cat. Mini racing has long been the start for many cross country
racers, beginning with Arctic Cat’s Kitty Kat model in the early ‘70s. Thanks to the recent partnership between Arctic Cat and Yamaha, all four brands are now represented in the 120 class with the addition of the Yamaha SRX 120. USXC owner Brian Nelson is excited about the two events. “We wanted to do something for the kids that was really special, not just a novelty sprint race, but something with a real cross country course,” Nelson said. Moms, dads, and friends will be burning wrenches preparing their 120s to take the green flag in a few weeks. The USXC Mini I-500 and 250 events will be the longest 120 class races held in the history of cross country snowmobile racing. USXC Racing looks forward to seeing these future pros compete between the arrows.
Faust Scores a Two-for-One at USXC Willmar 100 Ryan Faust (Pol) Earns First USXC Win in Pro Stock at Willmar Area Lakes 100 After alternating Arctic Cats in the Yamaha Pro Stock winner’s circle in the first two rounds of USXC competition, Polaris got off “the schneid” this weekend with Ryan Faust at the controls. The Willmar Area Lakes 100 wrapped up round three of the schedule, as well as the pure lake racing portion of the circuit. A lemans-style ice track couldn’t get any more technical, as 10 miles of lefts, rights, chicanes, and straights snaked around Foot Lake in Willmar, MN. A fresh blanket of snow covered the area the night before the race, forcing USXC owner Brian Nelson behind the wheel of a plow truck at 4:30 AM Saturday to clear the course. By the time the 8:30 AM driver’s meeting adjourned and riders staged for the first race, the sky was sunshine blue with a stiff breeze to help with snow dust. Saturday appeared to be the day a few riders figured things out in a big way. In the SemiPro class, Cale Anseeuw piloted his slammed ice setup, turning some impressive laps to grab Ski-Doo their first major victory of the season. The top three in Semi-Pro, Anseeuw, Cole Nymann (Cat),
and current point leader Casey Pries (Cat) were only separated by about 2 seconds, besting veteran Jon Arneson (Cat) and Polaris rider Alex Hetteen. At the end of the day, all eyes turned to the 10 lap, 100 mile Yamaha Pro Stock final. Coming into the race, Christian Brother’s Racing rider Brian Dick (Cat) won the Speedwerx Pro Open class, setting a best lap time of the day at 8 minutes and 47 seconds. Dick did this aboard his usual Pro Stock sled, despite competing against some true “open” equipment. Anyone placing a bet, would have put large coin on the Pro Stock win being a slam-dunk for Brian Dick. Not so fast. Always in the hunt, Ryan Faust (Pol) decided the hunt was over and it was time to go for the kill. From the moment Faust jumped over the start/finish line, bar-to-bar with Aaron Christensen (Pol), something looked different. All clichés aside, Faust appeared like he had been shot out of a slingshot right into the first turn. Brian Dick gave some early signs he was going to make it a race, but he just never found the pace, while Faust threw down some eye-watering laps. For the first
half of the race, Faust bested each one of his laps down to an8:48, just one second slower than the day’s best. Even with only a 20 second fuel stop and brief surge, it wasn’t enough for Brian Dick and Ryan Faust logged his first Yamaha Pro Stock win in USXC competition by over a minute, an impressive gap in pro competition. “The sled felt the best it has all year,” Faust said through a sweaty ear-toear grin. “I really liked the more technical layout here and it felt good to get my first USXC win.” A few side notes of the day included both Chad Lian (Cat) and round one winner Zach Herfindahl (Cat) finishing the Pro Stock race with no brakes. There was also a Ryan Simons (Cat) sighting, taking laps in the Speedwerx Pro Open race aboard, of all things, a Christian Brother’s Racing-badged Arctic Cat four stroke. Now it’s on to the terrain at the Oslo 100 in Oslo, MN January 25, 2014.
Herfindahl Wins at USXC Oslo 100 USXC Racing returned to the ditches Saturday at the Oslo Merchants 100 after three consecutive lake races to kick-off the season. At the end of the 100 plus mile Yamaha Pro Stock final, Christian Brothers Racing’s Zach Herfindahl (Cat) managed a narrow victory. In hot pursuit were two racers with veteran resumes: Polaris’ Gabe Bunke (2ndplace) and Justin Tate (3rd). For the first time all season, race-perfect temps and moderate breezes awaited those arriving Saturdaymorning. Plenty of snowfall repositioned by Minnesota winds, however, were the recipe for some rough ditch lines. The course consisted of 27 miles of technical ditch and some high speed Red River running. After three consecutive races where pro class lap times shrunk as the day progressed, the Oslo Merchants 100 race broke that trend. By the time the Pro Stock race dropped, the course had holes as deep as four feet greeting racers. A total of seven riders dropped out of the Pro Stock race before the checkered flag flew, by far the most DNFs at the half way point of this season. In the continued revolving door of podium finishers in the pro classes, Bunke earned a decisive victory in Speedwerx Pro Open over the returning Ryan Simons (Cat), with Ross Erdman (Doo) breaking out of a funk with a solid third. Bunke’s best time in Pro Open was a shade under 23 minutes, his Pro Stock time was a full 3 minutes slower. Making a charge at Oslo, Bunke’s teammate Spencer Kadlec battled for a fourth place finish in both the Pro Open and Pro Stock classes. Rider parity this season is not restricted to the pros, with the semi-pros trading out positions, as well. Clearly using his knowledge of the area to his advantage, Oslo local Timmy Kallock (Cat) managed a first place finish in both the Semi-Pro and Amsoil Semi-Pro Improved classes. No stranger to the semi-pro podium, Alex Hetteen (Pol) grabbed second place in both classes, but his lap times increased too as the day progressed. Perhaps just as notable as the winners and losers, was who did and did not show up in Oslo. Christian Brothers and Arctic Cat welcomed back Ryan Simons, as well as an old friend to cross country racing, D.J. Ekre. Ekre, who retired after a season-ending injury early last season apparently missed the smell of two stroke smoke enough to make a comeback. CBR, however, was missing racer Brian Dick Saturday, who likely would have made a serious run in the pro classes. Also conspicuously absent from Oslo was Yamaha’s Corey Davidson and semi-pro riders Cale Anseeuw and Casey Pries. The Oslo Merchants 100 could be a preview of what’s up next: The Seven Clans Casinos I-500 in Thief River Falls, MN February 6-8. Parents, February 8 marks the running of the special Mini I-500 for the hard chargers on 120cc sleds. See www.usxcracing.com for details.
The sport of snocross racing and AMSOIL enjoy a special synergy when the temps plummet below zero When the recent ‘polar vortex’ rushed down from Canada and blanketed the United States in a deep freeze - from the Snowbelt States all the way down to Florida and northeastern Mexico, all-time records for cold temperatures were smashed, schools and businesses where shut down for multiple days, roads and railways were closed and thousands of flights were cancelled. The U.S. was pretty much frozen solid. But as theater veteran Noel Coward once said: “The show must go on.” And thanks to AMSOIL synthetic lubricant products, the show did go on at Canterbury Raceway (Shakopee, Minn.). And this despite temperatures that forced Governor Mark Dayton to close the entire Minnesota public school system on Jan. 6th - just
a couple days after AMSOIL Championship Snocross, powered by Ram, ran round three of its series in Shakopee. ISOC, the producers and promoters of AMSOIL Championship Snocross, enjoys one of the more ‘symbiotic’ promoter/sponsor relationships in all of motorsports with its series’ title sponsor. For all intents and purposes the world’s premier professional snocross racing circuit is able to go racing in these ultra-frigid temperatures thanks much to the products its title sponsor produces. “To say the least we have seen some pretty adverse conditions at the last two nationals,” said ISOC’s Assistant Race Director Jesse Strege. “Asking anything mechanical to work in sub-zero
temperatures is not the norm. And with AMSOIL products in our track groomers and sideby-sides we have not skipped a beat. That is a huge testament to how well AMSOIL’s synthetic line of lubricants work.” With the course properly built and continually groomed, racers still have to get after it on their performance sleds. Cold temperature performance is critical when dealing with today’s modern two-stroke engines. So racing is no exception. When the temps start to drop drastically and recreational riders can decide to stay in the house, AMSOIL Championship Snocross racers race regardless of the conditions. Today’s sophisticated snowmobile engines place heavy demands on the oil, extreme cold is no exception as AMSOIL’s Len
Groom, Technical Product Manager Powersports, explains: “Some may say that piston protection is key in race motors and cold temperature performance is not as important,” cites Groom. “AMSOIL recognizes that in order for the oil to do its job of protecting the engine it must flow freely in all temperatures. With that in mind AMSOIL formulates an oil not to do just one job but many jobs.” Groom cites three crucial areas where AMSOIL Synthetic Lubricants played a critical role during the brutal cold spell in the premier racing engines on the AMSOIL Championship Snocross circuit. 1.) Piston protection. 2.) Cleanliness. 3.) Cold temperature performance. “Each of these require special attention yet they all work together to provide trouble free performance,” said Groom. “Modern snowmobile engines direct less oil to critical components...through narrower passages...and for longer distances. “So the bar for cold-temperature oil performance has been raised. And even at forty below zero, AMSOIL INTERCEPTOR remains fluid. It reaches critical components in the coldest weather, keeping your engine protected.” Scott
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Motorsports knows this, using AMSOIL products to help propel his top rider, Ross Martin, in the Pro Open class. “In the past month we have been out racing and practicing our Polaris race sleds in -25 degree temperatures,” said Judnick. “From our AMSOIL DOMINATOR 2-Stroke Racing Oil, to our AMSOIL Chain case & Gear Oil, and our AMSOIL Synthetic Brake fluid, along with DOMINATOR Racing Grease and AMSOIL Anti-Freeze - we have not had one issue! There is a reason we choose AMSOIL ... it is simply the best! Steve Scheuring of Scheuring Speed Sports agreed, saying that he’s been confident in the AMSOIL brand since day one. “For us it starts with our groomer on our practice track. Getting the groomer started and running can make or break a day. And thanks to AMSOIL that happens - all day, every
day.” Scheuring and Judnick also agreed that it’s not just the performance snowmobiles that benefit from AMSOIL’s line of products, as Scheuring points out. “Racing the sleds is half the battle. You still have to get to the race, so it’s the behind-the-scenes things like worrying about getting some bad gas out of the pump, or a generator not working is where AMSOIL products can help out a great deal. Not only do the lubricants, but the whole gambit of products. And whether its minus-25 like this past week at Canterbury, or 85-degrees like it was at Lake Geneva two years ago, I’ve been sold on AMSOIL products from day one.” For more information on AMSOIL synthetic lubricants check out their website at www. amsoil.com
Polaris Industries Inc. Announces Organizational Changes
Organizational changes to further strengthen end-to-end customer support and global growth goals Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today announced that, effective immediately, it is merging its Polaris sales (this announcement has no impact on the Motorcycle sales force), sales operations, service, corporate marketing and interactive team into a unified global customer excellence team led by Tim Larson, vice president of Global Customer Excellence. The company also announced that Bill Fisher, vice president and chief information officer, will retire from Polaris at the end of 2014, necessitating leadership transitions
within the company’s Information Services organization. These leadership changes are consistent with Polaris’ talent and succession plans that are designed to support the company’s growth goals and longterm strategy. Following Larson’s hiring in August 2013, a thorough evaluation of Polaris’ channels and customer-facing initiatives led to the decision to create a consolidated Global Customer Excellence unit. By unifying all Polaris sales, marketing and interactive operations under his leadership, the
company is better able to provide more seamless experiences for customers and dealers, thereby driving greater satisfaction, sales and sustainable growth. “By combining Tim’s extensive background in delivering industry-leading customer experiences with our dynamic, innovative leaders, we have created a unified team capable of delivering the premium end-to-end experience our customers expect,” said Scott Wine, Polaris Chairman and CEO. This sales and marketing consolidation frees
Mike Jonikas from those responsibilities, allowing him to focus his efforts on growing Polaris’ Snowmobile business unit and launching the company’s Slingshot product line, debuting in 2014. Jonikas will assume the title of vice president, Snow and Slingshot. Concurrent to these organizational changes, Polaris began the succession strategy for Fisher January 1, when Matt Emmerich assumed the role as CIO. As CIO, Emmerich will report to President and Chief Operating Officer Bennett Morgan and be responsible for all IT-related operational and infrastructure support activities across the global enterprise. Fisher will work through 2014 supporting the transition within the Information Services organization. He will also continue to
spearhead the Interactive and Rider X Initiatives in 2014, while serving as integration leader for the recent Primordial acquisition. He has served as vice president and Chief Information Officer since November 2007, and has been CIO since July 1999. Fisher has also served as General Manager of Service overseeing all technical, dealer, and consumer service operations since 2005. He has played a critical role in helping to build the information services infrastructure that has helped contribute to Polaris’ growth during the last decade. Emmerich has been with Polaris since 2004. He started his career at Polaris as a project manager and quickly assumed greater responsibilities, including his most recent role as director of applications.
In the last 10 years, he has contributed to major information services initiatives related to key acquisitions, facility expansions and infrastructure development.
AMSOIL Championship Snocross history’s made in Shakopee, Minn. as Tucker Hibbert sets all-time wins mark SHAKOPEE, Minn. (Jan. 3, 2014) - On a bitter cold night with snow blowing sideways and temps reading in the single digits the thousands of core Minnesota motorsports fans that braved the weather at Canterbury Park Raceway witnessed history as Monster Energy/Arctic Cat/Ram racer Tucker Hibbert wrote his name into the AMSOIL Championship Snocross, powered by Ram racing history book with his 85th career Traxxas Pro Open, presented by Jimmy John’s main event victory - passing the legendary Blair Morgan (84 wins). The ever-humble Hibbert, flanked by his family, teammates and friends on the podium, was quick to
thank his longtime friend and competitor - Morgan - in victory from the top rung of the rostrum. “Thanks to Blair for pushing me tonight - just like back in the day when I always tried to pass him, it felt the same way tonight,” said Hibbert. “I tried a ‘Superman’ (Morgan’s signature trick victory celebration move) over the finish line and it was horrible, but that was my salute to Blair.” Joining Hibbert on the Pro Open class podium was Kody Kamm (Hentges Racing/ Monster Energy/Polaris) in 2nd and Johan Lidman (SkiDoo/NSK/Stud Boy) in 3rd. Winning the support Pro Lite class was Andrew Carlson of Polaris Racing/Sportech/
PMC. Pro Open Holeshot from the inside No. 1 gate pick, having won both of his qualifiers, and leading the contest wire-towire was Hibbert, who kept his undefeated record on the season intact at 5-0. Kamm would show a ski to Hibbert early, on the first turn, but Hibbert would respond by blasting off the back straight triple jump and looking back at Kamm - mid-air - as if to say ‘Not tonight, buddy.’ Quickly up three seconds on Kamm by the third lap, Tim Tremblay (AMSOIL/ Scheuring Speed Sport/SkiDoo) would get past Kyle Pallin (Mystic/Polaris/Team LaVallee) and into 3rd place.
Rushing up towards the lead pack early would be Logan Christian (Arctic Cat/Stud Boy/Speedwerx) and Ross Martin (DuPont/Jack Links/ Polaris), going bar-to-bar in a great battle for 4th place before Martin fell off his sled in a wild wreck on lap six. At the midway point of the 14-lap Pro Open main event was clicking off methodical lap after lap, increasing his lead over Kamm and Tremblay to more than five seconds. The three had spread out and looked to represent tonight’s podium - only to have Tremblay’s sled suffer a mechanical issue and come to a stop on lap 11 (while charging to pass Kamm). At the white flag Hibbert was up seven seconds on Kamm (2nd) and cruised to
the record-breaking victory. Lidman would inherit Tremblay’s 3rd place position with Cody Thomsen (Arctic Cat/Speedwerx) and Pallin rounding out the top five in 4th & 5th, respectively. Pro Lite Pulling the holeshot and leading the entire race, Andrew Carlson was on a rail on the Canterbury horse race track. The hometown Minnesotan led a field of Polaris sleds that would sweep the podium another big positive for the Minnesota-based snowmobile manufacturer. “All of us up here speaks volumes for Polaris,” said Carlson from the top of the podium that also included Leighton Motorsports/Polaris teammates Zak Mason in 2nd and Trevor Leighton in 3rd.
“The sleds were rippin’ fast all day long.” Pursuing Carlson off the start early in the contest were Leighton and teammate Corin Todd, along with week two winner Andrew Lieders (Mystic/Loctite/Polaris). But on lap three Todd came off his sled and Leighton and Mason moved in to 2nd and 3rd. Mason would then bolt past his teammate on the following lap as the white flag flew, setting up his first career podium finish and the allPolaris podium. “This is a dream come true,” said an elated Mason on the podium. “I can’t thank my team enough for pushing me to get up here. I’m speechless. Living the dream I guess.”
Photos courtesy of Lissa Marsolek/ISOC
Hibbert completes the Canterbury Park sweep of AMSOIL Champoionship Snocross in Minnesota SHAKOPEE, Minn. (Jan. 5, 2014) - In the most thrilling premier Pro Open class main event of the year thus far on the AMSOIL Championship Snocross, powered by Ram tour, Tucker Hibbert (Monster Energy/Arctic Cat/Ram) battled longtime rival Ross Martin (DuPont/Jack Links/Polaris) to take the come-from-behind win at Canterbury Race Park, sweeping the Traxxas Pro Open, presented by Jimmy John’s weekend of racing with a double 1st/1st place effort. And in Pro Lite class racing it was James Johnstad (DuPont/Jack Links/Polaris), pulling the holeshot and leading the support class race from green to checkers. Pro Open With a clean Stud Boy Holeshot and open track ahead of him, Martin took charge of the weekend’s final race early, only to bounce off Hibbert in a turn - which allowed Kody Kamm (Hentges Racing/Monster Energy/Polaris) to take the early lead. Martin and Hibbert quickly regrouped and rallied their sleds only moments after the incident and Martin took off after Kamm, passing him back on lap two. With Hibbert three seconds back of Kamm and Martin, Martin took off on a wide open track and put up a half second on Hibbert during lap four (41.334 to 41.887). The three would separate themselves from the rest of the pack in a furious chase for the lead position, with Hibbert catching and passing the sophomore Pro Open class racer Kamm on lap six in a gnarly section dubbed the “Gravity Cavity.” At the halfway point of the 14-lap contest Hibbert would cut a half second out of Martin’s lead with a risky triple/double jump move down the back stretch (a move that no other racer could manage to pull cleanly during the main event). Through the eighth lap Martin’s lead was 2.46 seconds over Hibbert. And by lap nine, when the two started to run into lapped traffic, Martin’s lead fell to 1.3 seconds. On lap ten, using his triple/double jump to set up Martin, Hibbert caught his rival on the exit corner from the straight and passed Martin in the Gravity Cavity. Within moments Martin would be down two seconds to the all-time winningest pro snocross racer - a gap he’d never be able to recover. With Martin solidly in 2nd place and Kamm equally strong in 3rd, Johan Lidman (Ski-Doo/NSK/Stud Boy) - who made the podium on Friday at Canterbury - was running in 4th with Logan Christian (Arctic Cat/Stud Boy/Speedwerx) in 5th. Christian would falter on the final lap, allowing former Pro Open champ Tim Tremblay (AMSOIL/Scheuring Speed Sport/Ski-Doo) to take 5th.
Photos courtesy of Lissa Marsolek/ISOC
Pro Lite Saturday AMSOIL Championship Snocross Pro Lite winner, Minnesota's James Johnstad, was kind of on the fence this weekend as to if he was going to even race or not. Back at the season opener in Duluth and after winning on Saturday, Johnstad proceeded to break his collarbone in Sunday's race. Missing the Bessemer, Mich. round (Johnstad made two painful starts, just to secure points, but didn't race), Johnstad decided to give 'er a run this weekend at Canterbury. "I can't explain how good I feel," said an elated Johnstad from atop the AMSOIL Championship Snocross Pro Lite podium. "I didn't even know if I was going to even race at Canterbury. But we did and it paid off." Johnstad parlayed a clean holeshot on his Polaris sled into an early race lead ahead of Jordan Kraus (Relentless Racing/Polaris) and Corey Watkinson (Watkinson Motorsports/Arctic Cat). The three held position through three laps before Watkinson got past Kraus and into 2nd place. On lap four of the nine-lap contest Corin Todd (Leighton Motorsports/Polaris) would move past Kraus and into 3rd, while Friday Canterbury Pro Lite winner Andrew Carlson (Polaris Racing/Sportech/PMC), who started on the back row, was moving up into the top five. As Johnstad opened up a 2.6 second lead on Watkinson, Michigan's Zak Mason (Leighton Motorsports/ Polaris) was up onto Todd and eventually into 3rd place on lap seven. Consistency and speed would allow Johnstad to easily win the contest, with Watkinson and Mason finishing in 2nd and 3rd, respectively. The 2nd place for Watkinson would be his first career Pro Lite podium and Mason's 3rd place would be his first career double podium weekend (2nd on Friday). SkiDoo racer Maxime Taillefer would place 4th with Carlson rounding out the top five.
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Ski-Doo X-Team Sweeps Podium at Eagle River World Championship It was a spectacular weekend for BRP’s Ski-Doo snowmobiles as Ski-Doo racers just dominated the Eagle River Derby World Championship oval race. Malcolm Chartier led every lap of the final en route to winning his second championship in a row. He was joined on the podium by fellow X-Team racers Matt Schulz and Travis MacDonald. Chartier and his Rotax-powered mills set the tone for the event on Friday night at the Friday Night Thunder event. His impressive victories in the heat races and final earned him the pole position for Sunday’s World Championship and enabled him to bypass Saturday qualifying. He still put his sled into action in the time trials – and easily put down not just the fastest lap, but the second-fastest as well. The Cottrellville, Mich.-native is just the eighth racer to win the Derby back-to-back in its illustrious 51 year history. One of the others is Ski-Doo legend Mike Houle – who builds the chassis of Chartier’s race sleds. The East Coast Snocross series hosted an event at Airborne Speedway in Plattsburgh, New York and the Pro Open and Pro Lite classes were all SkiDoo. On Saturday, Ski-Doo racers took the four top spots in Pro Open with Lincoln Lemieux winning, followed by Danny Poirier and Dave Allard. Leo Paternaude won the Pro Lite class and was followed by three more MX Zx 600RS racers. It was a similar story on Sunday – Danny Poirier led the way in Pro Open, heading a contingent of Ski-Doo sleds, as 6 of the top 7 finishers were X-Team racers. Paternaude also won Sunday’s Pro Lite race, another podium sweep for Ski-Doo. For more information on Ski-Doo snowmobiles visit www.ski-doo.com For more Racing information check our On Track blog site or Ski-Doo Face Book page
US Airforce Returns to Series’ Sponsorship Lineup Minneapolis (Jan. 13, 2014) - Officials with International Series of Champions (ISOC), the producers and promoters of AMSOIL Championship Snocross, powered by Ram, announced today that ACS sponsor United States Air Force will return to the series’ sponsorship lineup for the 2013-’14 competition season, backing both the Feb. 7-8 Seneca/Allegany (N.Y.) Air Force Snocross and the March 7-8 Air Force Snocross at Buffalo River Race Park in Glyndon, Minn. Featuring the highly sought after 17-35 athletic, mechanically-inclined male/female demographic, AMSOIL Championship Snocross has been a strategic partner for the USAF’s key messages to potential recruits over the past three competition seasons. The Air Force Recruiting Service (AFRS), which looks to add approximately 26,000 annually for 150 different career fields (with more than 8,500 career opportunities in the mechanical area), enjoys the synergy that the high tech world of professional snowmobile racing offers - along with the Air Force-quality fans the series attracts. “Like Snocross, the United States Air Force uses teamwork and finely-tuned equipment to accomplish its mission,” said Col. Marcus Johnson, AFRS Strategic Marketing Division chief. “From working on engines of an F-22 Raptor to engineering the next generation of quad rotors, all of our missions require Airmen to be innovative and have technical acumen.” In addition to the positive interaction between ACS fans and the USAF’s popular on-site activation efforts, the USAF’s also a champion of the calculated team effort that it takes to pull together a successful racing endeavor on the ACS circuit - both professional and amateur. Teamwork and team-oriented values are critical to the success of the United States Air Force. And these values are intrinsic in all levels of racing on the ACS, matching the USAF core values of Integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do.
“Precision, loyalty, technology and speed - AMSOIL Championship Snocross and its fan base is a natural fit for the United States Air Force and we welcome them back for another competition year beginning this weekend in Duluth (Minn.),” said Carl Schubitzke, ACS President/Race Director. The AFRS mission is to inspire, engage and recruit the brightest, most competitive and diverse men and women for service in America’s Air Force. In addition to flying fighter jets, snocross competitors, teams and fans can find Air Force careers available in Aircraft Maintenance, Cyberspace, Electronics, Healthcare, Intelligence, Communications, Space and Special Operations, to name a few. For more information on the Feb. 7-8 Seneca/Allegany (N.Y.) Air Force Snocross and the March 7-8 Air Force Snocross at Buffalo River Race Park in Glyndon, Minn. link to www.isocracing.com. And for more info on the USAF link to www.airforce.com 2013-’14 AMSOIL Championship Snocross, powered by Ram Round/Date
City/State
1 - Nov. 29-Dec. 1 2 - Dec. 6-7 3 - Jan. 3-5 4 - Jan. 31-Feb.1 5 - Feb. 7-8 6 - Feb. 21-22 7 - March 7-8 8 - March 14-16
Duluth, Minnesota Bessemer, Michigan Shakopee, Minnesota Deadwood, South Dakota Salamanca, New York Mt. Pleasant, Mich. Fargo, N.D. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Beginning with AMSOIL Championship Snocross' season-opening round in Duluth, Minn. and running through the season finale in Lake Geneva, Wis. CBS Sports Network will air 16 half-hour programs of the ACS races.