remember when...
The I-500 track in October, 1968. 30,000 cubic yards of dirt had been moved but it still looked like a barren field from the air.
History of the
BIG I-500: #1 on the Michigan circuit
W
hat does it take to turn an idea into an epic? Well, for one thing it usually takes a little time, in addition to some effort, some publicity, some luck and a whole lot of determination. There are so many “unique” events in our lives today that it requires something really extraordinary to stand out — but the I-500 Snowmobile Race at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan has managed to get to the top of the totem pole in a remarkably short time. Actually, the I-500 has been more than an idea for only two and one-half years. Even measured by snowmo-
bile standards, that’s not very long. Following is a brief chronology of the high points in I-500 history, a skimming history that can only hint at the back-breaking labor on the part of men and women who have taken part. This is almost a plan that could be followed by any community with the desire to create a classic event — but it has only happened in the Sault. July 15, 1968 — On this date, the original idea for a 500-mile snowmobile event was first formally presented to the Sault Ste. Marie City Commission. The proposal outlined the basic thinking, including the fact that the Sault could
well use the economic boost possible from hosting a major winter event. A number of interested citizens and many civic organizations favored the idea and it was pointed out to the commission that city-owned property adjacent to the I-75 Expressway would be an ideal location for the race. From the start, it was intended that the track should be the finest available. The city gave its’ blessing. The only cloud on the horizon? No one knew if a snowmobile could run 500 miles. August 1968 — A group of original ideas are combined and the scope of the track is decided upon. It will be a one-mile banked oval, constructed in front of a hill that will provide a natural overlook for spectators. The formation of an international 500 project committee is achieved. September 1968 — Ground is broken. By this time, race rules, qualification dates and the date for the first race are set. The International 500 group has set up committees to supervise the building of the track and the organization of the race. Lake Superior State College, located in adjacent to the race site, aids the 500 group in construction by dumping clay from college building projects at the track property. October 1968 — General Chairman Jim Hoover announced that a $250 champion’s trophy would be up for grabs. The trophy was donated by the Sault Automotive Dealers’ Association. Purse sizes were still under consideration. A team driver principle is recommended and added to the race rules as a suggestion. October 8, 1968 — It is announced that the track is approximately one-quarter complete, with some 30,000 yards of dirt and clay moved into the area. October 10, 1968 — Prize money is announced by Hoover. It is decided that $1,000 and the champion’s trophy will be awarded to the winner. Second place will earn $750, third $500, fourth $250, and fifth $200. Sixth through tenth spots will each earn $100. November 1, 1968 — The track is about three-quarters completed, with culverts installed and the north and south turns roughly shaped. Some snowmobile manufacturers are requestcontinued on page 42
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JANUARY • 2022 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
