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EDITOR’S LETTER
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DRUMMOND ISLAND SNOWMOBILING!!
EAST JORDAN: AWAITING WINTER’S ARRIVAL ON THE BREEZEWAY
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VINTAGE SLED: 1979 SKI-DOO BLIZZARD 9500 PLUS
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WINTER FORECAST
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WATER’S INN
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UNDER THE HELMET: HARRIS RACING
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I-500: HOLD THAT THROTTLE DOWN
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THE POWER HOUSE: HEMMER MOTORSPORTS
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Gaylord...................... 5 Naubinway................. 9 Houghton Lake.......... 9 White Lake................. 9 Greenland.................. 9 Cadillac.................... 11 Grand Marais........... 13 McMillan.................. 13 Twin Lakes............... 13 Seney....................... 13 Epoufette................. 15 Lake Gogebic.15Curtis. 21 Copper Harbor........ 27 Hubbell.................... 30 Quincy..................... 30 White Pine............... 30 Rexton..................... 30 Sault Ste Marie........ 31 New Lothrop............ 31 Fenton..................... 31 Hulbert..................... 33 Indian River.............. 37 Newberry................. 37 Calumet................... 38 Paradise.................. 38 Grayling................... 39 Marquette................ 39 East Jordan........40-41 Deer Park................. 45 Grand Traverse........ 45 Midland.................... 46 Elmira....................... 46
MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • DECEMBER • 2023
| 3
from the editor
A
t Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV, I don’t know about everyone else – but I can’t wait to get my Ski-Doo MXZ 600 on the trails. Since Snow Show – I want to RIDE! I’m dreaming of heaps and heaps and heaps of Michigan snow… anyone else? I have the bug so bad this year, it’s awful. I don’t care where, how long the ride is, I just want to go for at least one hour. A full week long trip would be spectacular, a long weekend the next best and a day long ride would be just fine – but holy cow do I want to get that sled out of the shed and just RIDE. In my dreams my co-riders would be my husband, son, daughter and their closest friends. Then I’d love to invite along some of the families we met at
the Snow Show like Harris Family Racing that shared our booth, or Town Brothers Race Team or Richter Race Team or anyone of the many awesome family teams we have been fortunate enough to meet through the years. Then of course we would have to ask the Pink Ribbon Riders along to promote that worthy cause (please check out their website!) and hopefully one day there will be another group promoting St. Judes Childrens Hospital (another worthy website to check out!). Wouldn’t it be a blast to start out someplace like Gaylord and make our way to the Soo… might take a while to get a big group across the Mighty Mac – but I’d be willing to figure out a way to make the process fun. Or perhaps, trailer all the way to St. Ignace and
travel along the southern edge to the West side or maybe take a direct northern turn and head for Copper Country… on a saddle bag tour. So many adventures that can take place in our awesome state – it just takes a little planning, some friends, snow and time! But even as I’m writing this, I have one friend that will be in my heart as we ride and every ride from now on – Jim Duke. I want to keep this letter upbeat and request that each reader in memory of Jim ask themselves what can you do for our sport or for your community? Jim did so much for snowmobiling in Michigan through his volunteer efforts and his writing at Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV. In this little letter each month, I often draw inspiration from people like Jim. It’s my own effort to do my part. Each of us in our own way, making a difference.
Just a thought, if you haven’t done so already, maybe this month reach out to your local Snowmobile/ORV club and volunteer in honor of all of those that have served before us. As always at Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV, we hope each of you is enjoying good health while dreaming of fun and the smell of revving engines in our pages! We look forward to seeing everyone at the I-500! 60 more days to go… Please remember to keep all of our veterans, first responders and their families in your thoughts and prayers. Please feel free to reach out to us. Be safe and enjoy the trails until our next issue.
As alway, you can reach out to us at Michigan Snowmobiler at scottd@faragoassoc.com
PUBLISHER | Peter Farago
VOLUME 57 - NUMBER 4
EDITOR | Ann Drzewiecki
Founded September 1967
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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER and ORV INC., The Michigan Snowmobiler is published 10 times per year, September through February and May through August.
4 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR | Chelsie Dzbanski Fontenelle WEB MANAGER | Kelly Kosek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | Jim Duke, Ric Federau, Patrick Grzebinski ,Terri Norey, Mike Olmstead, Dominic Santina, Melissa Sullivan, Jesse Wiederhold , Joyce Wiswell SALES | Scott Drzewiecki, Peter Farago DESIGNERS | Kelly Kosek, Kaitlyn Schoen
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GAYLORD
Nov. HEARST .qxp_HEARST 10/22/19 11:04 AM Page 4
4 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER - November, 2019
““
Welcome Snowmobilers
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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • DECEMBER • 2023
| 5
Drummond Island Snowmobiling!! BY MIKE OLMSTEAD CONTRIBUTING WRITER
T
o be sure, when winter hits and the snow finally flies there are a lot of great places to ride your sleds in Michigan’s awesome upper peninsula (UP). But one of the more unique venues has to be the Drummond Island snowmobile trail system. Here’s a quick peek at that venue! Drummond Island sits quietly at the north end of Lake Huron, and is accessible by a short ferry boat ride from little DeTour Village on the mainland. The Island is 129 square miles of rocks and forest, has 150 miles of shoreline, and even has 36
inland lakes on the island itself! It is the seventh largest ‘lake’ island in the world and fifth-largest island in the contiguous United States. The Drummond Island trail system consists of 69 miles of groomed trails that wind through a scenic mixture of northern hardwoods, deep cedar and pine forests, meandering forest meadows, and even brushing up against the Lake Huron shoreline at times. The system’s trails are routed through a combination of public and private lands with 52 private landowners who have signed leases with the State for ex-
6 | OCTOBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
clusive snowmobile-only use of the trails crossing their property. There are a couple unique features about Drummond that set it apart from other snowmobile venues. The first is that it IS an Island! Yup, there’s water on all four sides! Although the frozen lake and river afford other possible avenues of access to the Island (you can’t just go ashore from the lake or river just anywhere, for both legal and practical reasons!), the predominant way folks get to the Island is the Drummond Island ferrry that runs the 10 minute (15 sometimes in the winter!)
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| 7
Drummond Island HERE’S WHERE YOU CAN GET TRAIL UPDATES, GROOMING REPORTS, AND OTHER DRUMMOND ISLAND INFORMATION: On Facebook: Drummond Island Snow & Groomer Report “Michigan Interactive” www.fishweb.com/recreation/snowmobile/ reports/snow-drummondisland.html Drummond Island Tourism Association (DITA): www.visitdrummondisland.com
continued from page 7
From the top of the bluffs you look out over the naked aspen treetops to the stony beach 90 feet below. Gaze to the north you’re looking out over the North Channel, and you can see the Canadian shoreline most days. Turn your attention to the southeast and you’re looking at Cockburn Island out over the False Detour Channel. And on a super clear day you might – might - even be able to make out the little Canadian town of Blind River 30 miles to the northeast! And finally, unique to Drummond Island is the annual Ice Bridge to Canada! The Drummond Island community and the Canadian town of Milford Haven on St. Joseph Island collaborate to create a snowmobile trail between the United States and Canada! As the crow flies, the two Islands are about 10 miles apart. The trail is commonly referred to as the Christmas Tree Trail because for years it’s been marked with the cast-off Christmas trees from the recent holiday season! In recent years however, some of the Ice Bridge is marked by dedicated markers made of PVC pipe and outfitted with a reflective marker. The continued on page 10
8 | OCTOBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • OCTOBER • 2023
| 9
Drummond Island
continued from page 8
trees & markers are placed about every 1/8th mile to ensure that there’s always several in sight for ease of navigation. The communities shoot to open the Ice Bridge by late January to run through late March, but obviously both ends of that time frame are weather dependent. On the US side the Ice Bridge starts at Yacht Haven, on the northeast side of the Island. It winds north through Potagannissing Bay near Harbor Island, cutting through Burnt & Wilson Islands, and on to Milford Haven on St. Joseph Island. It’s also important to note that riders in both directions must check in with Canadian and US customs and carry the appropriate identification for international border crossings. A quick internet search on “ice bridge between Drummond Island and St Joseph Island” will get you all the
information you will need. As soon as there is sufficient snow the trails are groomed on a regular basis, with regular updates. The Drummond Island Tourism Assn. manages the trail maintenance and trail report updates. They have two John Deere groomers, and volunteers do all the grooming work to keep the trails open and safe. A COUPLE FINAL THOUGHTS ABOUT SLEDDING ON DRUMMOND: • Lodging is available in the winter season! Drummond Island Resort and the Drummond Island Motel are two establishments that are open. There are others but it varies with the demand. Best bet is to contact the Drummond Island Tourism Assn. for information (906 493-5245).
10 | OCTOBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
• A good meal is another requisite for a good time, and Drummond has several very good eateries that are open for the cold weather crew! Three good ones that come to mind are the Northwood, Chuck’s Place, and the Pins. They are all uniquely and delightfully different and have plenty of parking for sleds. • All snowmobiles using the Drummond Island trail system must have an annual trail permit and be registered with the Michigan Secretary of State. And don’t forget Drummond Island once you’ve put your sleds up for the season! The Island is a four-season outdoor person’s wonderland that has offerings for a number of activities – ATVs and Jeeps are very popular, not to mention hunting, fishing, boating and much much more! Give it a shot!! •
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| 11
business spotlight
A Relaxing Getaway Where You’re Treated like Family
S
cott & Brenda Bicknell had been visiting the Gaylord area for many years and were looking to invest in the motel business. They wanted to provide visitors a clean, comfortable room at an affordable price. They established the the Waters Inn in 2004 as a peaceful alternative to the Gaylord area, without the traffic, noise and neon, but still providing access to the usual amenities. The SxS or snowmobile trail – depending on the season sits just “across the road”. When the weather cooperates several golf courses are within a quick drive from the Inn for a fun/frustrating game after a great trail experience. Honestly, just great lodging for those who would prefer to enjoy everything the Gaylord area has to offer, without
the noise, the big box stores and the traffic jams, and yet be within 8 miles of the extra amenities of Gaylord if needed. The Waters Inn is a family owned Motel and when you stay with the Bicknell’s it’s like you are with family. Each room is decorated with a theme. You can choose your room, golf, hunting, fishing or the history room. Each room has that up north feel you are longing for with Wi-Fi, a small refrigerator, a microwave and coffee pot. Please check them out on TripAdvisor, the customer reviews speak for themselves. To ensure that great experience, the Bicknell’s asked Bob Holmes to join the family as Resident Manager and eventually a Partner. Bob stays on the property 24/7 to assist visitors
12 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
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with any requests. The Waters Inn is conveniently located two miles off exit 270, Waters, MI. Just turn to the west. Then turn north at the BP station. You can’t miss it. The Waters Inn has ample parking could easily accommodate several trailer/tow vehicle combinations for a group ride. The BP Convenience Store /Gas Station is a quick 200 foot “or so” drive that allows for easy SxS or snowmobile fill ups just before hitting the trail, then filling up the tow vehicle just before heading home.
As soon as your ride is ready, the trail sits within a half mile from the door of each of the rooms. The Waters Inn is definitely set up to be an up north oasis for visitors. Many amenities are within walking distance including the Keg Bar & Grill, followed by Trailside Creamery & Pizza for extra treats or just sitting on the motel front porch! Another great choice is family favorite Gobblers Restaurant. Located just off I-75 on the Waters Exit and also with plenty of parking for riding groups traveling together. So many choices
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continued on page 14
Open daily 7am - 9pm Pasty Hot Line 906.288.3888 of Corner nd M26 a Rd. Lake Emily from across Trail 3
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September 15-16, 2023
Trail report 906-499-3200
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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • DECEMBER • 2023
| 13
business spotlight
so very close to this location! For history buffs – the Waters Inn started in 1952 as the Space-E Motel. In 1996 the Motel was partially destroyed by fire. The motel owners at that time were from Rochester Michigan and also operated a mechanical contracting firm. They were able to reopen in 1997 as Roger’s Roost. In 2004, the Waters Inn name came from a family discussion and from local input. Many community members thought Roger’s Roost was a private club, so the Bicknell family thought to themselves and with input from their daughter – decided the name needed to be a gift back to the community – and the Waters Inn was named…the rest as they say is history. •
14 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
DALE HAMMOND
continued from page 13
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Under the Helmet
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16 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
team owners
acing Biff Harris Jr. & Tifenie Harris
Who got you into snowmobiling and when; what was their influence on your regard to the sport? When I was a kid, my dad was involved in snowmobiling and racing. This made me want to race and get involved with snowmobiles. My dad is a small engine mechanic, so we always had snowmobiles, bikes, and other off road vehicles. This kept us involved in many different types of racing as we grew up. When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far on the track? I started snowmobile drag racing in 2000. In 2008, I started racing vintage ice oval snowmobile racing with Sue Pitcher Racing. My proudest achievement is when I took points championship at Bevra Racing in the 440 Super Stock class in 2015. Another moment was when my son, Dakota, placed in the top 10 at the Vintage World Championship at Eagle River in 2019. Also, when Dakota won the semipro points championship at MIRA in 2020. Dakota also took continued on page 18 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • DECEMBER • 2023
| 17
under the helmet | owner interview
continued from page 17
5th in the FIII class at Eagle River World Championship in 2022. Finally, a proud moment was when my wife and I were able to start our own race team, Harris Racing, in 2021. What is your career goal as owners? As the team owner, the goal is for our team to win the Vintage World Championship at Eagle River, the FIII and pro enduro class at Eagle River World Championship, multi pro enduro races for MIRA, and pro enduro points championship. What were the driving factors to start a race team? After racing for other teams, we my wife and I decided we wanted to have our own team that was family oriented. We started our own team built with all of our own family members and a few very close friends. We would not be able to have started the Harris Racing Team without the support from all our sponsors. TEAM INTERVIEWS on page 20
18 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
derful things the Racing Wertz warriors do. ot to anknow because of mobile grapher, and faei, ch, another Like Vic Wertz, Mark circuits. Then, others Markfrom was totally Mark ile Racing circuits. LikeContinued Vic“the Wertz, Mark onBird” pagemous 28 his days dedias ers. eir ranking in the , who I e Reams, who I Plus, many many othwas also hugely fas Detroit Tiger. soup. Dave White, a another fa, many manyothers oth- Fidrych, was also hugely fa-a Tiger. And, like Vic, Then, there was Then, Continued on page 28 ause of from themobile Snowers. mous from his days as Like Vic Wertz, Mark circuits. rapher, andRacing mous from his Bird” days asMark Detroit Tiger. ch White, amous Mark “the was totally dediin as theDave Then, there washugely a Tiger. Plus, many othwas also fa- And, like Vic, Reams, who many Iand Then, there was a Tiger. And, like deographer, others Fidrych, another fa-Vic, Mark was totally Mark “the Bird” ers. mous from his days as on Continued pagededi28 rom Snowk “the Bird” was totally dediayne the Reams, who mous I Mark White, a Detroit Tiger. Fidrych, faThen, there was another a Tiger. And, like Vic, Continued on page 28 ych, another faewand from the SnowDetroit Tiger. Continued on page 28totally dediMark “the mous Bird” Mark was Detroit Tiger.another fa,swho I Fidrych, January, 2020 - MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER 27 Continued on page 28 Snow- mous Detroit Tiger. day. And, have overcome. And, are so very happy. All of a sudden, whatever it is that’s bothering me just does not seem that bad after all. Over the years, I became friends with many of the Warriors. Some, like Vic Batanni, a former President, and Ken Mattei, another President, who I got to know because of their ranking in the group. Then, others such as Dave White, a videographer, and Wayne Reams, who I knew from the Snow-
The athletics are the reason for the wonderful things the Wertz warriors do. mobile Racing circuits. Plus, many many others. Then, there was Mark “the Bird” Fidrych, another famous Detroit Tiger.
Like Vic Wertz, Mark was also hugely famous from his days as a Tiger. And, like Vic, Mark was totally dedi-
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| 19
under the helmet crew chief
Biff Harris Sr.
Who got you into snowmobiling and when; what was their influence on your regard to the sport? I started working at a dealership at the age of 16 (1972). The dealership where I worked raced at the I-500. I had the opportunity to help them during the time they raced at the I-500. I went on to work at Nelson’s Speed Shop. They had two 24 hour endurance race teams that I had the opportunity to help during them during their race season. When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far on the track? I started racing around 1972. My proudest achievement is when the Harris Race Team placed in the top 10 at the Eagle River World Championship Races. What is your career goal? It is my goal to help the team win all the races we can. We run hard and are very competitive at every race. How did you become part of this racing team? I became part of the Harris Race Team when my son, Biff Jr, and his wife, Tifenie, started the team. My son asked me if I would be crew chief for the the Harris Race Team and agreed to help out the family and the team. TEAM INTERVIEWS continued on page 22
20 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
eptember, 2019
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BRIAN CASWELL/SPEEDSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY
under the helmet | driver interviews
Scott and Dakota Harris continued from page 20
driver
driver
Scott Harris Dakota Harris
Who got you into snowmobiling and when; what was their influence on your regard to the sport? The person who got me into snowmobiling is my Dad. I would go with him to the ice drags when I was 8 years old. Watching my Dad at the ice drags got me wanting to race.
Who got you into snowmobiling and when; what was their influence on your regard to the sport? My dad is the one who got me into racing. It all really started when I was young and he was racing dirt bikes. My parents got me a dirt bike and ever since then I was hooked on racing.
When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far on the track? I started racing oval racing in 2009 for Sue Pitcher Racing. In 2010, I won the overall points championship in the vintage oval racing at Bevra. In 2020 I started racing Enduro sleds. I took first place overall in points for the WV Racing Team in the semipro class in 2021.
When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far on the track? I started racing racing snowmobiles in 2014 when I was 13 years old. There are so many awesome moments and memories we have as a race team, but one of the biggest achievements so far is finishing 5th at the worlds at Eagle River.
What is your career goal? My goal is to accomplish the championship in the Enduro class.
What is your career goal? My all time career goal is to get a win at the Vintage World Championship at Eagle River, the modern week World Championship at Eagle River, and the Soo I500.
How did you become part of this racing team? I became part of the Harris Race Team when my brother approached me and asked me if I would be interested in driving as the second driver if he was able to put a team together. He wanted to keep it in the family and have our own Harris Racing team. Now my nephew and I are racing together for the pro enduro Harris Racing team.
22 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
How did you become part of this racing team? This is a family team, and my parents and I agreed to go all in on this race team. It means a lot to me that so much of my family and friends support me in the sport I love the most. •
PRO ENDURO RACING CIRCUIT JANUARY 6-7th
KINROSS, MI JANUARY 20-21st
EAGLE RIVER, WI JANUARY 27- 28th
TRAVERSE CITY, MI FEBRUARY 10-11th
GAYLORD, MI FEBRUARY 17-18th
LINCOLN, MI BY D E T N PRESE
1-500 the finish line
Hold That Throt
BY RIC FEDERAU CONTRIBUTING WRITER
t’s December, time for race fans. to get excited about the upcoming 55th running of the International 500 snowmobile race hosted at Sault Ste. Marie, MI. the first Saturday of February every year. This is the time when race fans need to confirm their plans for attending the International 500 and it’s also a time when race teams are in full force preparing for the 55th. running of the most prestigious snowmobile race on the planet. I’d like to take a moment and make a couple recommendations. First ...Is being certain YOU have your lodging reservations confirmed. Second.... Is for YOU to keep in mind that your entry button allows you entry to all the weeklong series of events as well as the I-500 main event. It’s a week of race related fun for everyone to enjoy. Visit the International 500 web site to review the schedule of events for the whole week leading up to the main I-500 race. (Visit: www.i-500.com ) Let’s get moving at a faster pace. It’s time to jump
I
24 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
directly into the segment titled... “ Tech-Chatter”. This is an opportunity for YOU the reader to learn a little bit more about the inner workings of the International 500. From building the ONLY mile oval ice track in North America to a few good ole “ Sunday sit down “ interview sessions with some of the best of the best professional snowmobile race drivers who will answers questions race fans have and facts that will give YOU the opportunity to know more about the drivers and perspective. From this point forward within this article you’ll learn about the interesting perspectives and history of these professional drivers who indulge in the “High Octane” sport of “Oval Ice Endurance Racing” So once again, grab the beverage of choice, a snack, get comfortable and set back to experience another lap around the track with some of the best of the best. Let’s head down “Pit-Row” and commence a couple “Sunday Sit Down” interviews aka: “Tech-Chatter” with two outstanding drivers.
tle Down
DRIVER CAM VERMEERSCH Age: 32 Hometown: Unionville, Michigan
Ric: Before we get started, I want to take the time to mention how much I appreciate you sharing this information with the racing community and the race fans. It’s always great to help people understand what goes on behind the scenes And it gives them the opportunity to get to know the drivers and their personal perspectives. So again, I want to thank you very much for this opportunity. Let’s get started, shall we?...... Ric: So Cam.... How long have you been involved in oval ice racing? And how did you get into it? Cam: I’ve been racing sleds since I was two years old. My father was racing at the time and he got me into it. We’ve had family racing since the start of Oval ice racing. Ric: Driving for a particular sponsor and team you obviously have a supporting cast of team members. How many are on your team? continued on page 26
1-500 the finish line Ric: Can you give me a brief explanation of what goes through your mind while you’re on the ice racing? Cam: I try not to think too much. I just try to relax. I watch what the driver in front of me is doing and I look at anyone that passes me t try and see if their line is faster. You can pick fast line down the straightaway to gain three or four miles an hour during the race. I do have thoughts about what bumps there are that need avoiding and how the corners are set up for massive bumps coming out of turn #-4. And the bigger kicker. is under the bridge that claims many riders. continued from page 25
Can: We have around 10 people that try to make it to every race, even if they can’t make it, they show up to work on the sluds every week to get them ready and get them going every year. We seem to find one or more person to help out, which is really great. Ric: When racing at the international 500 race, On an average, how many times do you have to make pit stops? Cam: We try to pit every 100 laps. However, it seems we pit around 60 to 80 to get a fresh driver or to throw some more woodies Carbides on. Ric: When racing at the International 500 how many drivers do you normally carry on your team? Cam: We try to have at least three drivers. Every session when we go out we ride as hard as we can while pushing the limits. When we get off, we like to have a few labs to get the fatigue worn off, get something to eat and drink then it’s get back on. This year, I’m racing with Eric Churchill and we’ll have Andrew Terrell backing us up. Ric: I-500 Fans want to know what make snowmobile you ride and what size engine you use. Cam: Word die hard Polaris racers.
We raise the brand new 600R which is a 600 CC race sled that Polaris offers. Ric: At the International 500. the straightaways are long, and the speeds get really fast. What type of speeds do you reach on the straightaways at the I-500? Cam: We shoot to hit at least 112 miles an hour. But we look for 115 miles an hour. I’ve been Clocked at 124 miles an hour down the back stretch before. But we all know what goes fast, doesn’t go as fast for long. We’re looking to average A118 miles an hour during the qualifying sessions. Ric: This is an interesting question Cam. At the International 500 the corner banks are high, you entered turn #-1 at a high rate of speed when you come out of turn #-1 and head in to turn #-2, What kind of average speed do you have between the two corners? Cam: It’s hard to say. With clean ice during qualifying we’ve hit a 105 miles an hour by the first trailer in line. during the race, it’s hard to get those fast. runs with massive bumps and dust. I would say during the race were probably averaging around 95 miles an hour with a good pull.
26 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
Ric: When racing at the International 500 the ice is smooth and fast. What effect does incoming snow have on your ability to race at the International 500 should snow move in to cover the track? Cam: One of the biggest concerns I have is snow dust. I know better than to drive over my ability at the time, but a lot of others don’t. So it’s hard to navigate when some people let up really to see the other guy bury it into the corner, racing over their head, causing bad situations. Luckily, in the past years at the I-500 there has been an awesome mixture of snow dust control that keeps it safe for everyone. Ric: What do you like best about racing at the International 500? Cam: When it’s over!! You see we prepare for it all year long, whether it’s in the gym or in the shop building race sleds. There’s so much time, anxiety and sleepless nights that go into this. And if you ever had the opportunity to finish that long grueling race, then you know how great of a feeling it is to make it to the 500th. lap. Ric: During this past summer The International 500 went on a summer tour promoting the sport of oval ice racing and the International 500. Do you feel it’s important and why? Cam: Absolutely !!! The
of our options are our amazing grilled steak sandwich and fried brussel sprouts. Plenty International 500 wouldn’t of options to cater to be what it is today, without snowmobilers and skiers all the great fans and at the start or end of the businesses that support day. us. I think it’s awesome Our bar features that they’re promoting and toast with strawberry toast with strawberry several crafted cocktails helping outLake where they compote, and our signacompote, and our signalike the Effect and can. ture homemade ture homemade biscuit Brockway Blast.biscuit We also with local jam and with jam andhoney honey have alocal wide variety of butter. For dinner Ric: Do you hav butter. For dinnerabeer afew few UP and Michigan of our options are our e any racing you go ofwell our options are our as as rituals domestic faamazing grilled steak through before racing at hot amazing grilled steak vorites. Hot coffee or sandwich and fried chocolate with a splash the international 500? Like sandwich and fried brussel sprouts. Plenty of Bailey’s Irish Cream a routine ofsprouts. sorts before brussel Plentyis ofsure options toto cater totoon toevent? warm you the main of options caterup snowmobilers and skiers asnowmobilers cold day! Cam: Mywinter wife knows and my skiers at the start or end of the We are excited toofhost routine and usually lets me at the start or end the day. you this winter season! be to get my head on right day. Our bar features Please call our offi asseveral long ascrafted shefeatures gets a ce preatOur bar cocktails 833-326-6946 or visit race kiss Lake ascrafted far as acocktails good several like and ourthe website Effect fannyhooe. luck charm. I’ve tried just like the Lake Effect and Brockway Blast. We com to book a roomalso or about anything I could think Brockway Blast. We also have a wide variety of view our menu. • of, and I’ve comevariety upbeer empty have aMichigan wide of UP and so Never stop trying. UP and beer asfar. well as Michigan domestic favorites. coffee or hot as wellHot as domestic faSummer and Winter trail chocolate with a splash Ric: Racing at the vorites. coffee or hot riders, weHot are located ofon Bailey’s Cream Trail #3Irish and have ais International 500 going chocolate withand a splash sure to warm you up on great selection of lube 500of miles consecutively it is Bailey’s Irish Cream aproducts, cold day! belts, spark can takewinter itswarm toll onyou you sure to upason We are excited toand host plugs, hardware, drivers. After racing the a cold winter day! you this winter season! safety gear. famous race. How do WeI-500 are excited to host Please callnext our ce Suzi at Owners Mikeoffi and you feel the day? you this winter season! 833-326-6946 or visit Borlee established theat Cam: If I work out offi every Please call our ce our website fannyhooe. Copper Harbor Fuel day for 4 months before, I 833-326-6946 or visit com room or Stoptoinbook 2016ato connect can usually not be useless our website fannyhooe. view our to menu. • visitors the Keweenat aw work on theit day 3toafter com toall book a room or and has offer. theOver racethe If I’m not in the view our menu. • last four years, best then I’m grown pretty Summer Winter trail theshape, Fuel and Stop has useless for four riders, we the arenext located into your one-stopSummer and Winter days. Noopen matter what on Trail #3 have a trail shop; 364 days a riders, we are located great selection of lube workouts do, you•can’t year to you serve you! products, belts, spark on Trail #3 and have get in shape for the nexta plugs, hardware, and great selection of lubeto I-500 unless you’re able safety gear. products, belts, spark ride a snowmobile every Mike Suzi plugs, and dayOwners for twohardware, weeksand straight Borlee established the safety gear. beforehand. Copper Harbor Owners MikeFuel and Suzi Stop in 2016 to connect Borlee established Ric: CAM..... It’s a rap the visitors to the KeweenHarbor Fuel andCopper a pleasure my friend. aw and all it has to offer. Stop in 2016 to connect Again, I wanna thank you Over the last four years, visitors to the Keweenfor allowing me the time the Fuel Stop has grown awdown and one-stopall it have has to offer. tointo sit and your Over the last four ashop; “ Sunday Sit364 Down “years, open days a the Fuel Stop has grown Okay. with • you. year interview to serve you!
your one-stopI’m into certain the readers shop; open 364 days a will enjoy reading your year to serve you! perspective. Thanks again • my friend.....
continued on page 28
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1-500 the finish line continued from page 27
OKAY race fans, let’s continue with another entertaining and exciting “ Sunday set down “ with another best of the best. Let’s continue down ‘Pit-Row”........ Next UP..... PROFESSIONAL DRIVER MR. BILLY SKEA Age: 48 Hometown: Maple City, Michigan Ric: Billy, I want to thank you for taking the time to sit down with me for this interview. Much appreciated by many. Ready to Rock?.... Lets get roll’n. Ric: How Long have you been racing oval ice endurance racing? And how did you get into the sport? Billy: This will be my 24th year of racing sleds. I was introduced to it when I was asked if I wanted to head to the lake for an afternoon Test session with someone who is now my crew chief. and I haven’t looked back. Ric: Race fans wanna know what type of sled do you ride and what
size engine do you have? Billy: I ride Polaris and it’s a 600 AXYS. Ric: You raised for a specific race team and sponsor. How many people are on your team during the race at the International 500? Billy: I race for Novak Motorsports on the #24 sled. Our team has allowed 12 in the pits during the race, and I believe we always fill our spots. Everyone has multiple jobs to complete and it’s a tall task when you’re racing 500 miles. Ric: Obviously, when racing you have pit stops, what type of things happen during your pit stops and how many times do you pit during the race at the International 500? Billy: The pit stops seem like a blur as they’re happening, but they’re strategized every lap because the racetrack and the drivers change the outcome. Typically, we change skis, fuel up, adjust the track, check fluid levels, and swap racers under. 14 seconds. We typically we pit usually seven to eight times during those 500 miles at the international 500.
28 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
Ric: During your time on the track while racing, do you have any primary concerns? Billy: The only concern I have is when chances are taken without the thought of consequences. You have to respect other drivers because we don’t have protective roll cages. Ric: At the International 500 the tracks corner banks are high banked corners. When coming out of turn #-1 and going into turn #-2 what might your estimated avg. speed be? Billy: Speeds in turns #-1 & #-2 and turns #-3 & #-4 are totally different. Turns 1 & 2 carry tremendous speed and seems to average high 80’s to low 90’s. Whereby turns 3&4 are at 4555 mph. Ric: What does winning at the International 500 mean to you? Billy: To win the International 500 would be a great accomplishment for this whole team. Everyone works so hard to give me the best chance to win They all deserve it, continued on page 30
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and I’d like nothing better than to hand them the trophy. Ric: What do you like best about racing at the International 500? Billy: I actually like the longevity of the race to be out there at the end is such a feeling of YES!!, We did it followed by thoughts of what could we have done different to be better? Guess winning would definitely answer that. Ric: Do you think the international 500 summer tour was worth the effort? And did it help the sport of oval endurance racing? Billy: I think it was important to do. Racing breathes racing and campaigning the International 500 at the race tracks in the summer is a perfect way to NOT let winter racing fade too far from people’s minds. Ric: Racing snowmobile endurance races requires an enormous level of personal fitness. Going 500 miles is tough, and the sleds are getting faster and they’re heavier. It’s man versus machine and the elements that Mother Nature bestows upon us during a race. What do you do to prepare yourself physically for the international 500 race Billy? Billy: Sept. is my time to really start working on areas that I know will be used over and over. Therefore, I do many quats, push-ups, curls, jumping rope and most importantly, yoga stretching. Any areas I miss will be barking at me for a couple days after the race is over. Ric: Billy, I want to thank YOU for your personal time and willingness to sit down for this interview. I’m certain race fans will appreciate all you had to share. Thanks again, my friend. WELL.... RACE FANS..... That’s a wrap for December 2023. Time to zero in on the next issue whereby I’ll be sitting down for a “ Sunday Sit Down “ with additional professional drivers. Dr. Deric Kolbus driver for Team # - 8 - “ Kolbus Racing and another bright driver, Mr. Kyle Richter. And.... let’s not forget the “Sunday Sit Down” with International 500 race director, Mr. Billy Cryderman. There’s only a matter of a few short weeks before it’s happening at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan hosting the world class International 500. To learn more about this great week-long series of events and the main I-500 race, visit our web site at: www.i-500.com Till next time...... “ It’s all left turns from here...” •
tween the Soo and Kinross has improved greatly. They have fixed most of the problems in that area. As you may recall, there
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watch
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The Powerhouse Hemmer Motorsports brings together two northern Michigan athletes as teammates for the 2023- 2024 Snocross season BY DOMINIC SANTINA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
O
ver the last couple years, there have been two riders in the state of Michigan that have put the ISOC National Snocross circuit on notice. Both of them have belonged to the Polaris brands and have been dedicated to the brand while many have made decisions to change it up. Now they will end up being teammates in the same semi. Inanna Hauger, a Boyne City native and current Pro-Am Women rider has signed with Hemmer Motorsports this fall. Hauger hopes the transition to Hemmer helps turn the tides on what was a challenging 2021-2022 season. Tyler Archambault, a Mancelona native has been promoted to the Hem-
mer Motorsports semi, as he makes the jump from the Sport class to Pro Lite. Archambault raced last season for Hemmer Motorsports as a satellite rider but is excited to make the jump to the team trailer. Both riders will be making a trip to Minnesota to head to Hemmer’s training facility this fall. They will be able to practice and train with the team and mechanics.
32 | OCTOBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
INANNA HAUGER # 331 Hauger took over the Pro Women ride for older sister Cora Hauger in the 2016 - 2017 season. She spent her first few seasons racing for her family team of Hauger Motorsports. Hauger had her first breakout season came during the 2018 - 2019 season where she finished fourth overall in the point standings. A promising start to the 2019 - 2020 was derailed with injuries which limited her to just 33 points. She bounced back though during the 2020 - 2021 season by regularly ending up on the box. This allowed her to put the series on notice that she will be a serious championship contender. Hauger ended up earning her first top 3 finish in total points with a finish of 3 overall. The 2021 - 2022 season would again make a jump in the championship standings. As she made a breakthrough by not only winning her first race but winning multiple races throughout the season. This allowed her to earn her highest finish in championship standings, with a second place finish, 60 points behind the series champion. continued on page 34
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continued from page 33
Hauger earned most of her success by being able to grab the holeshot and hold on for race wins, if not consistently ending on the podium. With grabbing so many holeshots, she was able to earn the nickname, Holeshot Hauger. While she was the one pulling the trigger, her father Joe Hauger was the one helping pull off the great starts behind the scenes. As he has not only been her dad, but the funding behind her racing, transporting her sled and her mechanic for many years. The 2021 - 2022 success led to her first team deal, where she sign”ed to ride for Frattalone Racing during the 2022 -2023 season. While she remained healthy and continued to contend for race wins. Some mechanical issues caused it to be a very stressful season, and more frustrating than the previous season. Even through all of the adversity, Hauger was able to hold onto another top three finish in the points standings.
With the new deal to ride for Hemmer Motorsports for the 2023 - 2024 season, Hauger is optimistic for the upcoming season: “ I am very excited to be racing for Hemmer Motorsports and Polaris this winter. The team is amazing, very welcoming and has such a great family atmosphere. I truly couldn’t be more excited. I have the top mechanics, crew and teammates and I am excited to work with them this winter,” said Hauger. Hauger knows she has a great opportunity ahead with Hemmer motorsports but she is not just taking that for granted. Polaris has come up a great sled this winter! I will for sure have the best snowmobile in the Pro Women’s class. I am very confident going into this season. I have been training all summer long for this winter, so I can chase my championship, said Hauger.” Hauger is set up well for another title chase and might be set up the best she ever has been. Can she
34 | OCTOBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
help bring Hemmer Motorsports their first Pro Women Championship, as well as her first as well? Time will tell, but the moves this summer look promising. TYLER ARCHAMBAULT # 901 Archambault has been working his way through the ISOC series over the last few years. While also being able to get extra practice time at his hometown track of the Northern Power Race Park for the last two seasons. Archambault first found success at the national level during the 2018- 2019 season. As he competed in the Sport Lite class and earned a third place in the championship standings. The 2019 - 2020 season was a little bit of a struggle, but also saw Archambault make select appearances in the Sport class. The 2020 - 2021 season saw him find success in the Sport class, as he had a top 10 finish in the championship standings. Archambault continued on page 36
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finished seventh overall, just 1 point behind sixth, but 60 points out of fifth place. The 2021 - 2022 season saw Archambault continue his rise in the standings, as he finished sixth overall in the championship battle. However, it was last season, during the 20222023 season that he came into his own in the Sport class. Archambault found himself on the podium multiple times throughout the season, while also earning his first career Sport class victory. All of which helped lead to a top three finish in the championship standings for the Sport class. Archambault had help from the Hemmer motorsports trailer last season, but will be brought into the trailer this season. He will also make the jump from the Sport class to the next step up, which is the Pro Lite class. Hemmer brought Archambault in to replace former Hemmer Motorsports Pro Lite rider Nick Lorenz. While Archambault has been apart of the Hemmer program, he knows this move into the semi is a huge reward, “Being able to race out of the semi this year means everything to me. I’ve worked my whole life for this moment. I am so grateful to be given this opportunity. I will finally have a professionally maintained sled, so I can solely focus on racing,” said Archambault
36 | OCTOBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
continued on page 38
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38 | OCTOBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
He knows that the team is going to give him all that he needs to compete in his rookie season in the Pro Lite class. He hopes not only to compete in the championship standings, but for podiums and race wins. HEMMER MOTORSPORTS Hemmer Motorsports is familiar with competing for race wins and championships. Their two other riders Avery and Lila Hemmer are both multi time winners and series champions in their divisions. Avery Hemmer will be aboard the #415 Polaris while racing in the Transition 8 - 11 and Junior Girls 9-13 classes. Lila Hemmer will compete in the Champ 120 division this upcoming season. One of the up and coming Polaris racing teams, Hemmer Motorsports was founded in 2017 by former Snocross racers Nick Hemmer and brother Steve Hemmer. The team was originally founded to help their daughters have a place to race not only on the Isoc National Snocross circuit but also compete at the near by ERX Motorsports park in Elk River, Minnesota. You can follow each individual rider by their social media accounts or can follow Hemmer Motorsports to stay up to date with what is going on. You can also stream all Amsoil Snocross racing action on FloRacing.com. •
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LISA DUNSON
Awaiting Winter’s Arrival on The Breezeway
A
s I am writing this article two days prior to Thanksgiving, there has been little hints of snowflakes in the air. Hard to believe just one year ago today we had over a foot of snow on the ground. (However, it did disappear within a week). The weather forecasters are saying we are dealing with a strong El Nino this winter and communities orour region isoffer goingfrom to see chards, corn mazes, pumpkin warmer temperatures and lower precipitation. patches, art galleries,We resale may have another shops, handto do blown glass “Snow-Dance” like we did shop, antiques, restaurants andseveral much years more.ago! That particular year wePumpkin did a The East Jordan snow dance just prior Fest will be celebrated on
of Activities
efore now Flies!
noked ning nual ival 1– an. dercelern onestiof moque now ood bile
dan mes
to our winter festival. It Center is open year-round dan High School Welding started snowing the next and offers so may exhibits Class made the beautiful day andSeptember, it didn’t quit!2019 I and activities for the entire one-of-a-kind arch and - MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER 17 had a lot of people scold family, from the animal installed it just in time for me for that! They still to 16th room to the technology Day. The comWednesday, October Visit our website Veteran’s at this will tell center to the outside plete renovation is expectfromday 5:00 PMme to“Don’t 7:00 PM www.ejchamber.org. ever do that East again!” All in featelescope and now the ed to be done in time for downtown Jordan good awesome Dylans Dock. Memorial Day 2024. turingfun! children’s games, venAs we wait for winter’s The center is an amazing Wishing everyone a dors, business special sales arrival the communities place to visit and explore. joyous and Happy Holiand events, pie contest, face of East Jordan, Ellsworth When visiting East day Season from our East painting and and Atwood haveTwister numer- Joe Jordan, don’t forget to Jordan Area Chamber Northern Michigan’s Favorite ous holiday events comcheck out our Jordan of Commerce staff and Balloon plus more. ing up forArtist residents and Art Walk featuring our 20 membership. • When planning fall color visitors to enjoy. your Besides sculptures. Be sure to visit tour and event the destinations… Most sincerely, special events, “natthe Grand Army Republic make sure East Jordan is ural beauty and outdoor Park on Main Street which Mary H. Faculak activities areon available forEmail is home to Honor Star. A number #1 your list! President/CEO all enjoy. Greatfor hiking, new arch has been added or to call us today color tour East Jordan Area hunting, raftinginformation and star- and to the park which is under routes, area gazing enjoyed. a major renovation project. Chamber of Commerce more can at be 231-536-7351 or Raven Discovery Members of the East Joremail Hill info@ejchamber.org –
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roads and scenic overlooks to get those “ahha” and “oohs” from Leaf Peepers of all ages! There are also a number of festivals and events celebrating the fall season including…Fall • Boat and Snowmobile RepairFest in East Jordan at the beauti• New and ful Used Parts Tourist Park located on the South(All Arm Lake Makes) of • Full Service Charlevoix – Saturday, Sep612 BRIDGE STREET • EAST tember 28th,JORDAN the 11th Annual Fall Breezeway Color Cruises – September 28, October 5 & 12. Cruise at your own pace “discovering” all that The C-48 Breezeway (26 miles long from Atwood to Ellsworth to East Jordan and on to Boyne Falls) has to SEASONALS • COMMERCIAL offer after you pick up your Auto // Home // RV // ORV // Snowmobiles goodie bag full of tour tips, 824 Water St., East Jordan, MI 49727 special sales/coupons/swag T 231.536.3331 F 231.536.3332 from businesses located along The Breezeway. Expeinfo@theinsuranceshop.net rience all that the Breezeway
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HEARST.qxp_HEARST 8/26/19 11:56 AM Page 17
lenty of Activities Pl Before the Snow Flies!
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The East Jordan SnoBlast Committee has kicked off their festival planning meeting for the 39th Annual Sno-Blast Winter Festival scheduled for February 21 – 23, 2020 in East Jordan. Looking for another wonderful family-friendly festival celebration winter in northern Michigan for snow and nonsnow-lovers alike! The festival offers a multitude of activities including snowmobile radar runs, antique snowmobile snow, snow sculpture competition, food events ATV and snowmobile rides, plus much more. In the meantime, East Jordan “owns” the fall when it comes to fall splendor and beauty! The area is abundant with fall foliage and great country roads and scenic overlooks to get those “ahha” and “oohs” from Leaf Peepers of all ages! There are also a number of festivals and events celebrating the fall season including…Fall Fest in East Jordan at the beautiful Tourist Park located on the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix – Saturday, September 28th, the 11th Annual Fall Breezeway Color Cruises – September 28, October 5 & 12. Cruise at your own pace “discovering” all that The C-48 Breezeway (26 miles long from Atwood to Ellsworth to East Jordan and on to Boyne Falls) has to offer after you pick up your goodie bag full of tour tips, special sales/coupons/swag from businesses located along The Breezeway. Experience all that the Breezeway
communities offer from orchards, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, art galleries, resale shops, hand blown glass shop, antiques, restaurants and much more. The East Jordan Pumpkin Fest will be celebrated on
September, 2019 - MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER 17 our website Wednesday, October 16th Visit from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM www.ejchamber.org. downtown East Jordan featuring children’s games, vendors, business special sales and events, pie contest, face painting and Twister Joe Northern Michigan’s Favorite Balloon Artist plus more. When planning your fall color tour and event destinations… make sure East Jordan is number #1 on your list! Email or call us today for color tour routes, area information and more at 231-536-7351 or email info@ejchamber.org –
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may not be exactly as shown. Shown with optional accessories. ©2019 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Product and specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider on closed *Models may exactly as shown. Shown withaccessories. optional ©2019 Yamaha Motor U.S.A. All rights reserved. Product specifications to change *Models may notnot be exactly asand shown. Shown with ©2019 Yamaha Motorallowing Corporation, U.S.A. All reserved. Product and specifications subject toand change without notice.subject Professional rider onwithout closed notice. Professional rider on closed nder controlled conditions. Always wear an approved helmet, eyebe protection protective clothing. Rideoptional responsibly and always accessories. ride within your capabilities, time and distanceCorporation, for rights maneuvering, and respect round you. Know the conditions. Observe all stateunder and local laws. Don’tconditions. drinkconditions. and ride. course controlled AlwaysAlways wear an wear approved eye helmet, protectioneye andprotection protective clothing. Ride responsibly and Ride alwaysresponsibly ride within your allowing time and capabilities, distance for maneuvering, and respect course under controlled an helmet, approved and protective clothing. andcapabilities, always ride within your allowing time and distance for maneuvering, and respect
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| 41
vintage sled
1979 Ski-doo Blizzard 9500 Plus
BY BRYAN LEHR CONTRIBUTING WRITER
J
ust when you thought that you have all the sleds you want, another one pops up that you just can’t let go. I was in the garage one night when my wife came out and said her son sent this snowmobile to me to show you, but I don’t want to because you have more than enough. Although I know it’s a Blizzard and you would have been mad if I didn’t show you.
I looked at it and I wanted the sled since it was a 1979 Blizzard 9500 plus that I really liked it. This was the first year for this sled so, I had him give the guy a call. It was still available, I then called the guy only to find out he was only fifteen minutes from me. It was late on a Thursday night, but he was ok with me driving up to see it, I jumped in the truck and went to see the sled. When I got there,
42 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
I saw the sled and knew right then that I would buy it. It wasn’t in the best shape, but I knew I was going to be able to fix it up to make it a rider. As we started talking, we found out that we were both firefighters and we talked for a while about our careers in the fire service. I told him I would take the sled but couldn’t pick it up for a couple of days. continued on page XX
For a sled that the wife didn’t think I needed she said it turned out nice and I can’t wait to ride it.
After I picked it up and took it home, I started looking it over to see what it needed as I was planning on making it look better. It had a hole in the hood, the seat cover was a mess and the belly pan was dented and rusted, but I was only going to do minor things to fix it up. THE TRANSFORMATION BEGINS As I looked more into it, I found out that several track clips were missing also. Well, the only way to put new clips on was to take out the suspension. So out it came. I then borrowed a track clip tool and was that ever a job to put about fifty of them in one at a time. As long as the suspension was out, I decided to go through the suspension to clean and refresh it. Then that was put back in and the tunnel got polished. Now onto the hood. There was a hole in the left corner of the hood and some of the front was missing. So, I started sanding down the hood to prepare it for some fiber glassing. I have learned to use fiberglass, and I enjoy it. Creating the missing pieces using fiberglass is fun and when you see the finished product it gives me great pleasure to know I created it. Once that was done, I started filling and
priming the rest of the cracks on the hood several times to get all the spots smooth before painting. New stickers were ordered to make it look like it did when it came off the production line. Now onto the belly pan that had some dents on both sides and underneath it as well. I sanded and filled the dents to make it look like new again. I didn’t just stop there I also went inside the belly pan to clean it up and make it look new again also. Everything under the hood got cleaned and painted if it could except, I didn’t pull the motor. The belly pan on the 79 Blizzard was a light gray color and believe it or not I found a spray can at Menards that matched it almost perfectly. Now under the hood looks nice. So, I then took the skis off and sanded them down so I could paint them. They got a fresh coat of gloss black to make them look new again. I ordered a new seat cover to replace the one that was a mess. Lucky for me that the seat foam was in good shape as I stretched the new cover over the foam and stapled it to the seat bottom. Now that all the parts are finished, it was time to put it all back together. As the parts went on it was starting to look like the machine that was in the showroom at one time many years ago. What a nice sled once it was finished. There was a lot more work put into this project than I really planned on but as you know one thing leads to another. I should have just done a full restoration in the first place. But for a sled that the wife didn’t think I needed she said it turned out nice and I can’t wait to ride it. • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • DECEMBER • 2023
| 43
T
El Niño
May Mean Less Snow BY JOYCE WISWELL CONTRIBUTING WRITER
44 | DECEMBER • 2023 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
his is not the forecast that sledders are hoping for, but the signs are pointing to a warmer and less snowy winter than usual. We’re heading into El Niño, said Matt Zika, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in Marquette/Negaunee. That weather pattern means weaker trade winds over the Pacific Ocean, which leads to warmer ocean waters and ultimately warmer air temperatures. While areas like Southern California, Texas and the southeastern U.S. may see more rainfall, El Niño typically means less of the white stuff and icier conditions in places like Michigan. “Obviously seasonal forecasting is a struggle; sometimes we struggle to forecast for tomorrow,” said Zika. “However, there are times when we can pick up on oceanic and atmospheric contributions and a strong one is El Niño, when the water temperature is way above normal.” It’s not a common pattern -there have been only five or six strong El Niños since the 1970s, Zika noted, and each one meant warmer temperatures and less snow. On the other hand, “last winter was one of the warmest on record and it was not related to El Niño. We were in La Niña,” which causes the jet stream to move northward and to weaken over the eastern Pacific. Last winter set a record at the National Weather Service office in Negaunee, where only eight days saw the temperature dip below zero. In January, the office recorded a rather remarkable 16 days of liquid rain. “We can’t say to get ready for the same warmth this winter but there is a least a 60 percent chance that it will be warmer than usual,” Zika said. “It’s hard to say how far above normal.”
HOKO R - October, 2019 LE SUIT KO
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Michigan Snowmobiler Magazine Winners are responsibleCity________________Zip_____________ for any30600 Northwestern Hwy., P.O. BoxSuite 417 306 Deadline entries shipping or for transportation costs and no Farmington Hills 48334 Phone______________________________ East Michigan Jordan, MI 49727 February 28, 2024 will be given. cash equivalent One EntryFax Per231-536-7691 Person email_______________________________ Deadline for entries January 11th 2020
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The 32-foot-high Keweenaw Snow Thermometer, located on US-41 north of Mohawk, marks last winter’s total.
For proof of unpredictability, look again to last winter, which despite those warmer temperatures also came in as one of the top five seasons for snow. “A very unusual winter,” is how Zika put it, noting that October 2022 had record snow followed by a warmer-than-typical November. The Central UP saw the most snow while the Western region, including the Keweenaw Peninsula, recorded less than normal. Calumet saw 292 inches while Painesdale had “just” 249. The influence of the Great Lakes makes weather forecasting particularly challenging. Meteorologists have to develop tough skin to deal
with Monday morning forecasters who delight in pointing out inaccurate predictions. Zika said he’s lived all over the United States and has noticed an interesting phenomenon. “In a lot of places when we forecast more snow than we get, people are ecstatic. In the UP, when there is less snow than forecast we get a lot more complaints. Everyone wants more snow, more snow.” There may not be as much as everyone wants, but it will come, Zika said. “There will be snow and it will get cold at times,” he said, “but we will also have these periods of less snow and/or more sloppy conditions.” •
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