from the editor
At Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV, we asked Santa for the white stuff for or sleds and boy did the man in the red suit come through! The Upper Peninsula was hit with 75 inches in certain areas. Northern Lower Michigan also was hit hard. Gaylord had 58 inches for Thanksgiving weekend. Not a bad start to the 2024-2025 season. Last weekend Scott had a meeting in Sault Saint Marie and we had a blast
driving through part of the snowfall. We splurged and got a hotel in Mackinaw City, the halfway point of our trip. I had a chance to walk around town and do a little last minute Christmas shopping while he went on Up North to take care of the meeting. The snow in Mackinaw was coming down just perfectly. I felt like I was walking in a snow globe or perhaps on a Hallmark movie set. What an amazing evening. I had one
VOLUME 58 - NUMBER 5
Founded September 1967
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definite gift mission and stopped into the Leather Exchange Co. for an American made leather belt. I highly recommend this shop. The owner is so kind and makes the belt to size as you wait. Quite a nice stop for a break if you are traveling from lower Michigan and heading to the upper parts of the U.P.
Hope your Holiday season was Happy and filled with friends, family and making plans for the variety of events we describe each month. MIRA (Midwest International Racing Association) has their calendar listed on page 25. The 56th running of the International I 500 will take place the week of Sunday January 26th through Saturday February 1st. Just 31 more days to go… but who’s counting. We’ve had our rooms booked since July, not that we are excited this year…
And, of course don’t miss the Pint Ribbon Riders event to be held January
PUBLISHER | Peter Farago
EDITOR | Ann Drzewiecki
25, 2025 in Gaylord. For more information check out their website pinkribbonriders.com. FYI, they do not cancel. Their philosophy if we cancel, we can’t raise money, we can’t help. I’d say that some tough ladies. As always, hope you find inspiration to do something new or talk with someone new within our pages! We look forward to seeing everyone at local events, chapter meetings and volunteering in support of Michigan Snowmobiling and ORVs. Please remember to keep all racers and race teams, our veterans and first responders in your thoughts and prayers. Please feel free to reach out to us. We love to hear from our readers. Be safe and enjoy the tracks and trails until our next issue.
As alway, you can reach out to us at Michigan Snowmobiler at scottd@faragoassoc.com
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Inaugural Snowcross Border Cup
Northern Power Race Park in Mancelona Michigan kicked off the snocross season in a major way.
BY DOMINIC SANTINA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Northern Power Race Park kicked their snocross season off in a major way. The inaugural Snowcross Border Cup occurred on Saturday, December 8, and Sunday, December 9. Team Canada claimed the cup over Team USA convincingly. Team Canada won by final points total of 3962 to Team USA’s total of 3098. Team Canada will hold the trophy until the teams meet again next December. Team Canada earned its championships in several different ways. The battle of the Border Cup pitted
Michigan’s snocross series against Canada’s. With the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association hosting one of their seasonal points races, all Canadian riders in the series showed up to Mancelona. While Michigan Snocross is the only top series in Michigan, many U.S. riders opt out of the battle to save themselves for the national circuit. This allowed Team Canada a significant advantage in the number of riders racing over Team USA.
While rider turnout helped, Team Canada also had
two good days of racing. One of the few divisions in which Team Canada excelled was some of the youth 120s and 200s. Vincenzo Dioro, Jackson Baker and Colter Cody all made significant impacts. Michigan Snocross series riders Jack Gelinas and Dylan Sabourin in the transition classes greatly impacted Team Canada. While they raced in the Michigan series, given they were riders for Canada, they were racing for Team Canada. Gelinas won and finished top-five in his transition
Snocross Border Cup
continued from page 7
classes. While Sabourin earned wins in her transition girls’ finals.
Carter Van Horsigh was chosen as the Most Valuable Rider by MI Snocross Media. He earned a first and second place finish in the Junior 14-17 and Sport finals on both Saturday and Sunday as another contributing factor to Team Canada. Tyler Billings (Pro-Am +30), Shyann Gosselin (Pro-Am Women) also made significant contributions with final wins.
In the pro class, Jake Wier and Taylor McCoy helped cement the Border Cup win by taking both Saturday and Sunday’s final from hometown rider Tyler Archambault.
TEAM USA
While they did not bring home the big trophy, that still does not mean that some great efforts were not had. Tate McQuestion was the top performer from the youth classes by earning a win on Saturday. Eva Gifford showed some overall improvement and won a couple qualifying rounds in the Junior Girls 9-13 age group.
In the transition classes, local national riders, Charlie Lucas and Ryder Hayes performed well and earned wins in their Junior and Transition classes. In ProAm +30, Danny Delecki stole the show from Billings and won the Sunday final. Shade Meyer also earned a big win, as he jumped up divisons to the Pro Lite class and came away with two finals wins to begin his year.
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Your Winter Playground
continued from page 8
While Archambault, did not earn the wins on either night in the Pro class liked he hoped. He put together two greats rides after dealing with adversity to finish in fourth on Saturday and second on Sunday.
A few other riders found themselves on podiums as well, such as Austin Allen in Sport Lite, Tess Stone in the 200 classes and Jackson Goike in Transition 11-13. However, the greatest race for Team USA came in the Transition 11-13 divison and on Sunday. Where they took the top four spots. The group was led by Lucas, followed by Goike, Hayes and Dominic Munford. A strong showing and a real bright spot in a weekend controlled by Team Canada.
The defeat will have to sit with Team USA until next December and the question will remain, can they get enough of a showing to reclaim the Border Cup?
The event drew many spectators, especially trail riders who stopped in to check out what was going on at NPRP. Overall, the event was a great opportunity for all of the riders to get some time on the snowmobile before the ISOC National series kicked off in Ironwood the next weekend.
The Michigan Snocross series will be busy the rest of the winter, with nine more rounds of snocross left to be contested. The next round of competition will be hosted on Saturday, January 4 and Sunday January 5. The park will also have a ton of other snowmobile events going on throughout the winter and a schedule can be found at Northerpowerracepark.com. •
BY KIM KISNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
or decades, the name Bunke Racing has been synonymous with snowmobile racing, representing a legacy of speed, resilience, and family tradition. From its origins with Jerry Bunke, a pioneer in the sport, to the current leadership of Gabe Bunke and the rise of his sons, Boe and Taylor, the team has carved out a unique place in snowmobile racing history. Through victories, innovation, and a natural affiliation for the sport, Bunke Racing continues to lead the pack.
THE FOUNDING YEARS: JERRY BUNKE’S VISION
Jerry Bunke grew up immersed in the world of snowmobiles, with his father owning a dealership. This early exposure sparked a passion that would define his life and legacy.
In 1969, Jerry made his USSA racing debut, beginning a remarkable career marked by unparalleled success and influence. By 1973, he had earned the title of Central Division High-Point Driver, which secured him a coveted spot on the Polaris team in 1975.
Jerry’s career peaked in 1977 with an astonishing 15 feature victories, including wins at the Kawartha Cup, the Alexandria International Championship, and a rare fourclass sweep at the Wisconsin State Open Championship.
In 1978, he continued his dominance, securing another Kawartha Cup title and a prestigious 440 feature win at the Eagle River World Championship. Tragically, Jerry’s life and career were cut short later that year. While
continued on page 14
BRIAN CASWELL/SPEEDSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY
I-500 Bunke Racing
continued from page 13
competing in the World Series of Snowmobiling in Beausjour, Manitoba, he collided with another racer, resulting in a fatal accident. Gabe was only a year and a half old and the loss left a lasting impact on the snowmobile racing community.
“I attribute much of my success to the people that I’ve been able to be around.”
— GABE BUNKE
Jerry Bunke’s legacy was honored in 1996 when he was inducted into the Snowmobile Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a pioneer and legend in the sport.
GABE BUNKE: THE NEXT CHAPTER
That same year, Gabe began racing professionally and his talent quickly became evident.
“After high school, I took a job at Polaris and was exposed to Bob Eastman and others who had raced with my dad,” he said. “At the age of 20 I purchased a sled and the minute I threw my leg over it and went racing I knew it was a natural fit.”
Gabe says it was almost like a subconscious thing. “It was something I was meant to do.”
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I-500 + A Partnership in Speed!
Sunday, January 26th, 2025
12:00-5:00p.m. - Of ce / Press Center Hours
1:00p.m. - Walsh Service Solutions Mini5 Kids Snowmobile Races Rig Parking & Unloading (East Parking Lot)
/ Registration (Press Center) Mini-5 Divisions
Racing
Kitty Kats
Stock 120 Mod 120
Super Mod 120
Monday, January 27th, 2025
9:00a.m.-7:00p.m. - Of ce / Press Center Hours
12:00-5:00p.m. - Rig Parking / Unloading / Check In / Tech
(ALL Classes Racing on the Legendary 1-Mile Ice Oval)
• Wheeler Trucking #SooI500 Pole Qualifying Presented by Owosso Speedway (#SooI500)
Meijer Pro Shootout IV (#MPS)
Kokosing-Alberici-Traylor Old 600 Modi eds Shootout IV (#KAT600Mods)
Wheeler Up tters Soo Vintage Shootout (#SVS)
Tuesday, January 28th, 2025
Opening Day / Bud Clarke Day
8:00a.m. - Remaining Rig Parking / Unloading Resumes / Check In Continues / Tech Resumes (ALL Classes Racing on the Legendary 1-Mile Ice Oval)
Wheeler Trucking #SooI500 Pole Qualifying presented by Owosso Speedway (#SooI500) Meijer Pro Shootout III (#MPS)
Kokosing-Alberici-Traylor Old 600 Modi eds Shootout III (#KAT600Mods)
• Wheeler Up tters Soo Vintage Shootout (#SVS)
Wednesday, January 29th, 2025
9:00a.m. - Remaining Rig Parking / Unloading Concludes / Check In Resumes / Tech Continues (ALL Classes Racing on the Legendary 1-Mile Ice Oval)
• Wheeler Trucking #SooI500 Pole Qualifying Presented by Owosso Speedway (#SooI500)
Meijer Pro Shootout IV (#MPS)
Kokosing-Alberici-Traylor Old 600 Mods Shootout IV (#KAT600Mods)
9:00a.m.-One Hour Following the Last RaceOf ce / Press Center Hours
11:00a.m.-12:00p.m. - #SooI500 Practice
1:00-9:00p.m. - #SooI500 Merchandise Trailer Hours
1:00-2:00p.m. - #SooI500 Pole Qualifying Round I
3:00-4:00p.m. - #SooI500 Rookie Practice 1
Thursday, January 30th, 2025
9:00a.m.- One Hour Following the Last Race - Of ce / Press Center Hours
10:00a.m. - Check In / Tech Resumes (ALL Classes Racing on the Legendary 1-Mile Ice Oval)
• Wheeler Trucking #SooI500 Pole Qualifying Presented by Owosso Speedway (#SooI500) Meijer Pro Shootout IV (#MPS)
Friday, January 31st, 2025
FINAL Track Prep (No On-Track Activity)
Saturday, February 1st, 2025
RACE DAY
7:00a.m.-45 Minutes After Post-Race Ceremonies
Of ce / Press Center Hours
7:00a.m. - 56th Running of the I-500 Check In / Tech / Field Grids on Frontstretch (Tech Order set by Reverse Order of the Of cial Starting Lineup)
8:00a.m. - Spectator Gates Open
8:00a.m.-45 Minutes After Post-Race Ceremonies
Apparel Trailer Hours
9:00a.m. - Opening Ceremonies Begin / Special Presentations / Race Dedication / Rider Introductions
9:40a.m. - Invocation / National Anthem(s)
9:50a.m. - Riders Start Your Engines
• 10:00a.m. - Green Flag for Owosso Speedway Presents: the 56th Running of the International 500
• Snowmobile Endurance Race Powered by Wheeler Trucking
* I-500 Schedule subject to change
continued from page 14
Over the next 27 years, Gabe would achieve victory after victory, including major wins at prestigious events like the International 500 (I-500) and multiple United States X-Country (USXC) titles. His reputation as a strong competitor and natural ability earned him respect not only from his peers but also from fans across the snowmobiling community.
“I attribute much of my success to the people that I’ve been able to be around,” Gabe said. “I was mentored by Corey Davidson and ended up on a team with Aaron Christensen, and also have had years of support from Polaris.”
THE RISE OF THE THIRD GENERATION: TAYLOR AND BOE BUNKE
Both Boe and Taylor grew up immersed in the world of snowmobiling, learning from their father and the stories of their grandfather and developing a deep love for the sport. In 2012 and 2016 respectively, Gabe’s sons, Taylor and Boe stepped into the spotlight, continuing the family’s racing tradition.
“They’ve taken the legacy piece and ran with it, and I hold that dear to my heart” says Gabe.
The boys have quickly made names for themselves on the professional circuit.
Gabe says Boe brings a calm, fluid approach while Taylor is a bit more aggressive.
“It’s been fun to work with them and see them grow and get better,” says Gabe. “It’s mind-boggling to see their natural abilities and how they operate the machines the way they do.”
He says snowmobiling keeps the family together, and now, the three Bunkes represent the past, present, and future of the team.
A WINNING RECIPE
For Gabe, success in endurance racing is built on two key pillars: mental preparation and trust in equipment.
“Endurance racing is more mental than physical,” Gabe explains. “You can be in great shape, but if you lose focus, it can cost you valuable time.”
He says this approach sets Bunke Racing apart. “Our recipe is a little different than most. My boys are in good shape, but they’re not in the gym seven days a week.”
This mindset ties directly into their emphasis on equipment. “Endurance racing demands not just trust in your team but complete confidence in your sled,” Gabe notes. “You need to know your equipment inside and out. That trust allows you to stay focused and make the right decisions during a race.”
The combination of mental resilience and equipment mastery has become a hallmark of
BRIAN
I-500 Bunke Racing
continued from page 17
Bunke Racing’s sustained success, as outlined here in their achievements through the decades:
1996 – Gabe Bunke made his snowmobile racing debut.
2002 – Gabe Bunke won his first Soo I-500 with Mike Gentz.
2003 – Gabe Bunke wins first USCC Pro Open Championship.
2004 – Gabe Bunke won his second USCC Pro Open championship.
2005 – Gabe Bunke won his second Soo I-500 title with Josh Davis and Corey Davidson.
2007 – Gabe Bunke won his third USCC Pro Open championship and his only USXC Pro Stock Championship.
2008 – Gabe Bunke won his fourth USCC Pro Open Championship.
2009 – Gabe Bunke won the USCC “Iron Man” award.
2012 – Gabe Bunke won his third Soo I-500 championship with Aaron Christensen, Bobby Menne.
2012 – Taylor Bunke made his snowmobile racing debut and earned 2nd in the USXC Sport and Sport Improved classes.
2013 – Gabe Bunke won his fourth Soo I-500 title with Aaron Christensen.
2013 – Bunke Racing won the USXC “Team of the Year” award.
2014 – Gabe Bunke won his fifth Soo I-500 championship and third consecutive with Aaron Christensen.
2015 – Taylor Bunke claimed 3rd in points in both the USXC Semi-Pro and Semi-Pro Improved classes.
2016 -Gabe Bunke won his sixth Soo I-500 title with Aaron Christensen and first Soo title for Taylor Bunke.
2016 – Taylor Bunke won his first USXC Semi-Pro points championship.
2016 – Boe Bunke made his snowmobile racing debut.
2017 – Gabe Bunke won his seventh Soo I-500 championship and Taylor Bunke won his second title.
2017 – Boe Bunke competed in his first full season with USXC.
2018 – Taylor Bunke picks up first Pro Stock win in Naytahwaush.
2018 – Taylor Bunke claimed 3rd in the USXC Pro Open points.
2019 – Boe Bunke makes Semi-Pro debut at Pine Lake (USXC 2019-2020 season).
2020 – Bunke Racing wins Soo I-500. Gabe Bunke ties Corey Davidson with the most wins at eight. Aaron
Christensen earns fifth I-500 win. Taylor Bunke earns his third title.
2020 – Boe Bunke wins first Sport 600 Championship.
2021 – Taylor Bunke finishes second overall in Pro Stock Championship.
2022 – Taylor Bunke wins season opener, Gerald Dyrdahl Memorial- Pine Lake 200.
2022 – Taylor Bunke wins Okoboji 100, clinching back-to-back wins.
2022 – Taylor Bunke finishes third overall in the Pro Stock points championship
2022 – Boe Bunke wins Semi Pro Improved championship.
continued on page 20
I-500 Bunke Racing
“They’ve taken the legacy piece and ran with it, and I hold that dear to my heart.”
— GABE BUNKE
continued from page XX
In 2020, after clinching his eighth Soo I-500 victory, Gabe decided to retire from competitive racing. For him, that particular race marked a pivotal moment.
“I was ready to be done,” Gabe reflected. “Racing has been my life for so long, but it felt like the right time to step back and focus on helping my kids more.”
Now, with Boe and Taylor at the forefront, Bunke Racing is entering a new era of excellence. Both
have carved out their own paths, carrying the legacy forward with determination and skill.
For aspiring riders who dream of following in the footsteps of Bunke Racing, Gabe offers simple yet impactful advice:
“Ride. Get out and ride,” he said. “You must love the sport. Understand how a snowmobile works by riding in all kinds of terrain—trails, ditches, lakes. Build that trust in your machine. From
there, the sky’s the limit.”
For fans and competitors alike, Bunke Racing continues to represent the pinnacle of snowmobile racing. With a rich history, countless achievements, and a commitment to innovation and family, their story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the sport. As they look to the future, one thing is clear: the legacy of Bunke Racing is far from finished. •
Under the Helmet
Racing
Who got you into snowmobiling and when; and what was their influence on you with regard to the sport? What got me into snowmobile racing?
The biggest influence that got me into racing snowmobiles would be my father, Earl Kay, and John Wicht III. It essentially started with my father, Earl Kay. He had me at the I-500 track as young as one years old–younger, actually: I was born in October and he had me there that January and February. He used to be the Chairman of the Board. I believe he was the Race Director for a while, also.
He did a lot of things at the track, so I grew up there. I mean, it got to be a
part of my life. And it was, you know, just where I went every year with Dad. It got to be that I was old enough to start meeting racers, and around the age of 9–1989, 1990, somewhere in there–I met John Wicht III and John Wicht, Sr. From there on out, every year they would come to the Soo, I would meet them. They’d be parking their trailer and I’d be at the door. They taught me a lot and they really welcomed me with open arms. It was a friendship that was built beyond racing. Watching him do the Soo I-500 by himself, it was always a dream to follow in his footsteps because I always thought that was really cool.
James Kay Owner
That’s why I run the #52. I’ve always run a 52, it’s just been a part of me throughout my life. I ran 52 as part of my race number back when I started racing sno-cross; I was 19 years old then, and my number was 852. I started racing sno-cross in 2000. I raced the ASRA and the CSRA circuit. I traveled all over Northern Michigan and throughout parts of Canada; I got to race some dome events down at the Pontiac Silver Dome. My rookie year, I made the podium for all three classes that I raced in: I took 3rd place for the season in Stock 600, Stock 440, and the Open class. That was a
pretty proud moment, starting off like that.
When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far at the track?
The next highlight of my career would be in 2011 when I was part of the G-Wiz Racing Team, or Gutter Wizard, on the #37 race sled. When I got invited to ride with them, we took third place at the Soo I-500. That was a very proud moment there, to be a part of that crew. We had a good group of guys, all different ages, all different
walks of life that came together and we formed a very good team and we did really well.
You know, and that’s something that a lot of people don’t realize about enduro racing: essentially, we are one big family. You know, I’ve seen guys need help, I’ve needed help, and we all come together. Yeah, we want to beat each other [on the race track], but we help each other out. And that’s the thing I love about the Soo I-500. It’s the camaraderie at that place. It’s just amazing.
continued on page 24
under the helmet | IRON MAN Racing
continued from page 23
What is your career goal as an owner?
A career goal for me, for the #52 Ironman Racing team, would be to win the Soo International 500. That would be an amazing feat. That being said, that is a very difiifuclt feat to be there at the end of the day when that checkered flag flies. It’s a–It’s a feat all on its own, which–we succeeded in that goal in 2023. In my eyes, we did really well in 2023. We didn’t have a good qualifying set-up, so we had to sit and wait for a scratch to get in the show. Lo and behold, there were enough scratches that we were able to make the starting grid. And the stars aligned; we were able to work our way from 37th, or 38th, wherever we started at, to 15th when the checkered flag dropped. I am very proud of that accomplishment that we had that day. We had two different style race teams that came together: it was myself, my son Takota, and we had Thomas Wisner from Wisner Racing. Wisner brought their whole crew and we came together. We butted heads a little but, but we came together and we were able to keep the sled out on the track. We fell off the pace a little bit, but we were able to muscle-up through and just keep grinding laps. Eventually, it paid off for us. We got the 15th place trophy that year. We also were awarded the Lynn Filipchek Hard Charger Award for gaining, I think it was, 22 positions. And then I was awarded the Skid Roe Award for sportsmanship. So, in my eyes, we had a great year. 2024, we didn’t do so well. We struggled in 2024. If it wasn’t for John Hoos from the #67 Hoos Racing team, I don’t know… They helped us out tremendously. They knew we were struggling. John walked into our trailer, points at our primary clutch, and he says, “Hey, what weights you got in there?” I said, “Well, I got, I think I got 54s.” John said, “Give the weights, give me the clutches.” John Hoos took the clutches from our race sled, said, “I’ll be back”
and went to his trailer. He came back a little while later after working some magic, handed the clutches to me and said, “I need them back at the end of the race, Okay? Go get in the show. Good luck, if you need anything, let us know.” That’s what I love about the Soo. That right there.
Then you got the #77 Brownlee Boys Racing Team, they’ll do anything to help you out. The #19, Mike Otto, Chad Bauer, Cody Bauer, the Bauer Racing boys, they’ll do anything they can to help. At Hoos, you got Tom Morgan, John and Matt Hoos, they’re great
I’m at the track trying to help water or help do whatever because I love that place. Something about that place that’s just, I can’t explain it. It’s the Soo I-500. It’s the granddaddy of them all.
What were the driving factors to start the race team?
people. They help out. I could keep going, there are so many great people, even Gabe Bunkie and his crew, I know him pretty well. The Piche boys, Piche Racing, them guys, they help out. I’m honored to tell you all about these people and why I love this track and this race.
I’m rambling all over the place. I’ve already answered some questions and now i’m side-tracking, but there’s so many things at that track that I love.
I love to go up there and volunteer. I was just there, today’s the 4th or 5th of December? I was just there over the weekend, spent three days helping clear the snow, pack frost when I’m not working on a race sled or gone working because I’m a traveling union worker.
How did I become a part of this team? I started this team. I started Ironman Racing back in 1998 when I took a 1996 XCR 440–’96? Or ‘98? God, I gotta remember the year; yeah, ‘96–and I went over to Christmas, MI. I had the sled in the back of my pick up, and they were having a sno-cross and an ice oval day out there, and I entered into every class I could enter. I got the snot whipped outta me in everything. Trail carbides, trying to turn laps, out there trying to double and triple and do tabletops with that big ol’ heavy sled that had no suspension. I’d been beating the sled up on the trails all season, and here I am trying to race it. I threw a ‘52’ on the windshield in little, tiny numbers, threw on some safety gear and I went over and I tried to start it up, and the announcer there said, “Man, this guy just won’t quit; he gets the Ironman award!” and it stuck.
That’s where Ironman Racing started. A couple of years later, like I mentioned before, I started racing sno-cross professionally, even as an amateur, I went to everything I traveled all over for every race. I went to Searchmont, Sudbury, Traverse City, Gaylord, Pontiac, Cadillac. I even made some trips out to the WSA series that was going at the time, went to Lake Geneva.
99% of my racing has been on Polaris. Ok, 95%: I did switch for two years racing sno-cross to Ski-doo. They just seemed like their chassis were working really well on the sno-cross circuit, so I switched to them. I’ve banged bars on the sno-cross track with some big names, met a lot of great people. I tried continued on page 26
January 18-19, 2025
WCDC World Championship WCDC, Eagle River WI
January 25-26, 2025
The Kinross 250
Chippewa County Fairgrounds, Kinross MI
February 8-9, 2025
Extreme Power Sports 250 Gaylord MI
February 15-16, 2025
Michigan Kenworth 250
Alcona Recreation Area, Lincoln MI
February 22-23, 2025
Make up date
under the helmet
MAN Racing
continued from page 24
to stay going with my sno-cross career but unfortunately my military service cut that short. I was deployed and had to sell my race sled. I told the dealership that I got it through to go ahead and sell it for me, I’m not gonna be here. So they sold my race sled for me.
I was deployed, and when I came back, I decided I was going to take a break from racing. 2011 came around, and that’s when I got the opportunity to race for Gutter Wizard, G-Wiz racing, #37 Ski-doo. We got everybody qualified. We ended up taking 3rd place.
I did try to qualify a sled a couple of times for my, well, ex-brother-inlaw, who is still a really good friend of mine and one of the riders for Ironman Racing, Richie Sutherland. We tried to qualify his sled; he had an Arctic Cat that he wanted to try to get in for a couple of years. So we, we battled with that. We did race some MIRA races with it and had a lot of fun.
I then took a break again until 2020. I got onboard another Ski-doo for George Armstrong in MIRA. I went down to the Gaylord MIRA Race–I believe it was the first Gaylord race–and I was walking around and George saw me and said, “I’ve been looking for you! Can you race my sled?” Free ride? “Yeah, I’m in.” I raced a couple of races for him. He wanted to come and race at the Soo, but we just ended up disagreeing on too many things. I wanted to change too much stuff on the sled to make it better [from my perspective], and [George] he wanted to keep it the way he wanted to keep it. So, we parted ways, and we parted ways peacefully. Shortly after, my youngest son, Tate, bought an IQR, and we started Ironman Racing back up and brought it back to life.
First year out, 2022, we made her 49 laps at the Soo and we lost the crank in the motor and she was done. Our day was over. 2023, like I said, we took 15th, and 2024 we blew a track at about, we were at lap 360, the race was about the 400 mark, and we were done for the day.
We are currently trying to get out
stuff together, get some funding together, and get to the Soo for the 56th I-500. We are unsure of our plans for MIRA; we just haven’t decided what we’re going to do there, yet. Our #1 goal is the Soo I-500. We would love for the stars to align and be the first ones across the line, we would love to be the sled leading them down the front straight-a-way at lap 500 and take that checkered. That’s a big dream. In reality, will we do it? We don’t know. I would say so.
I’m to the portion of your questions now that are owner questions, some of them are repeated. So again, I would reiterate that it was my dad and John Wicht III that got me into racing. I should add this:
You know, I started being their kid, running around, having fun, learning how to water, flagging in the corners, flagging time trails. Then from thereI’ve gone to plow truck, tow sled, then being lead plow truck for a few years. Finally, I made the jump to racing it. So I’ve gone full circle, kind of, at that place. The only thing I haven’t done is doing anything in tech or be the race director. I used to help out in the old timing shack when it was back in the old days, the way we used to do timing there. I used to help count laps, I’ve helped run the carousel on top of the bunker. I’ve got many hours plowing that track. I’m still volunteering, helping to plow the track, water it. My dad, who hasn’t been around that place for many years, hes now back up there hanging out in the press center while i’m out on the track.
It has been quite the endeavor I’ve put out there. A lot of struggles, just a privateer team. The team consists, well, did consist of me and one of my sons and his uncle. In 2022, it was myself, Takota Kay (my middle son) and Thomas Wisner when we lost it 49 laps in, the motor locked up. In 2023, the riders were again Takota, Thomas, and myself. In 2024, the riders were Takota, Richie Sutherland, and myself. We were supposed to have Tate Kay as a rookie and Matthew McGuire as a rookie, but they weren;t able to race at the Soo this past February.
We did race at Traverse City before the Soo this past season; Takota, Matthew and Tate raced there. We had
motor issues at that race. After the Soo, we raced in Kinross, where, in addition to Takota and myself, my oldest son Tylor raced. Tylor shocked us all, he did awesome. We are hoping that in 2025 he’ll be a force on the sled.
For the upcoming 2025 season, Our riders will be me as the lead driver, Tylor Kay, and Richie Sutherland. I do have an amazing crew behind me, and I could have mentioned them first, but here we go. None of this would be possible without them. In 2022 and 2023, Wisner Racing was awesome to work with and their whole crew. In 2023, Kevin Titus, from Brimley, joined our team, wrenching and fueling up the sled, and now is our Team Manager. He deals with all of the phone calls and emails, trying to get us funding to race. He gets the bad news and breaks it to me, or gets the good news and breaks it to me. He runs our facebook page, our Instagram page. I can’t thank him enough for what he does for us.
We will be short one crew member this year. It’s a sore spot for me, and for us as a team. We lost our lead mechanic, and as we call him, our glue. When things got hard or tough in the shop or in the trailer, this guy always held us together and kept us reeled in. He always had a way of getting us out of our funk, out of our own way, and get us focused on the task at hand. He was the first one to dive in, didn’t matter if he had to lay down in a puddle on pit road or kneel down in a puddle of chain case oil, didn’t matter. That was Frank St. George. He was an allaround amazing person, and our team is going to be hurting without Frank. Richie, my ex-brother-in-law, does some wrenching and provides some racing wisdom for us in addition to riding. Big Bill Hancock does whatever we ask of him. Troy and Todd Godfrey put in countless hours in the trailer. I’m forgetting people, I know, and I’m sorry; I apologize to them when they read this, I don’t remember everyone’s names. We are looking forward to everyone coming back.
Our manufacturer partners Studboy (Ron and Zach Patton), CastleX Gear, Venom, Q-Collar, 139designs, a huge thank you to them and we are looking forward to a great year with them again this year.
Richie Sutherland DRIVER
I started riding snowmobiles at the age of 6. Started racing them in ovals at Cherry Speedway around 2000 till they stopped having sled races. My dad had raced when he was younger and said we would have a blast and that’s what we did. Then my brother in-law James Kay started racing endurance oval and we decided to do it together for a few years then we took a couple years break and Iron Man Racing picked up where we left off. The goal is to always to win the I-500 but just finishing top 15 is a huge accomplishment. Me and James Kay of Iron Man Racing have always been teammates from the start when poor boy racing fielded the sleds to now when Iron Man Racing owner James Kay and fields the sleds.
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continued from page 27
Tylor Kay
Located right on the snowmobile trail and just a few miles away from Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains in White Pine, MI
DRIVER Who got you into snowmobiling and when; and what was their influence on you with regard to the sport?
My dad raced sleds since I was young watched him race. My uncle and grandpa always have been into racing cars in the summer time so racing all I’ve ever known.
When did you start racing and what is your proudest achievement so far on the track? Last year I raced once and it was the most fun I’ve had on a snowmobile.
What is your career goal? Goal is always to win the I- 500, be happy to get a top 15, top 10 and work my way up towards the win.
How did you become part of this racing team? Been on the team since the beginning wrenching on the sled, standing on the bank at the soo, setting the sled up for race day. Counted laps and stood on the bank watching for the last 10 years. •
Perfectly Groomed Trails
they made the move to make the move. Anyhow, it worked out pretty good Martin said, “We ha d a re-
a l l y g o o d t u r n o u t . Some really good fun And, some really good comradery.”
A s f o r m e , o f course I had to sample all of this, in the name of journalistic integrity,
o f c o u r s e S o , I c a n
s a y t h a t w i t h o u t a doubt that the burgers were really good The
c o r n o n t h e c o b w a s awesome. Martin and I
t h e f a c t t h a t t h i s w a s really tasty corn for the e a r
A n d , t h e f u
g r e e n marshmallow fluff stuff
w a s a l s o d o w n r i g h t tasty Plus, Prince, my
l i t t l e f i v e p o u n d S h i -
Ts u m i x s i d e k i c k t o l d
m e t h a t t h e h o t d o g s were also just perfect T h e n , I w a t c h e d a s
M a r t i n ’s b r o t h e r A l
t o a s t e d u p s o m e m a r s h m a l l o w s o v e r
t h e f i r e f o r h i s g r a n d
d a u g h t e r A l e x a . S h e
really seemed to enjoy
t h e t r a d i t i o n a l t a s t y
treat of summer How-
e v e r, I d i
Northern Lights & Frozen Heights!
Let’s snowmobile Michigan’s Keweenaw peninsula
BY JAY HAVEN, UPPER PENINSULA TRAILBLAZER
The snow is everywhere – wrapped around trees, drifting off roofs and covering cliffs. The Keweenaw Peninsula is back to her bold winter persona – with well over five feet of snowfall through December. Cross the Portage Lake Lift Bridge from Houghton to Hancock and you’re officially on Copper Island: Michigan’s northernmost destination. Here, nature reigns supreme and quiet can be found in abundance. Bring your snowmobile and get ready to ride all afternoon!
By day, the sun basks this mighty landscape from the heights of Brockway Mountain to the frozen waters of the Portage Canal. At night, the region is virtually free of
light pollution, exposing a bright starry sky. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the Northern Lights. Waterlocked by Lake Superior – the Keweenaw is a hot-spot for lake effect snow and brings adventures by the dozen. Keep an eye on the weather this winter and head to the Keweenaw next time snow is in the forecast. The region is known for getting up to 300 inches in a good winter and December was a promising start.
KEWEE-YAH!
Out of all of Upper Michigan: the Keweenaw is arguably the best place to snowmobile. The 230+ miles of trails are groomed, towns connect – and the region’s network can make for a few days of riding.
Mark it on your bucket list for a weekend trip. Hancock, Calumet and Copper Harbor are lively social hubs for snowmobilers, who can be seen lining the streets of these towns on a nice riding day visiting local establishments. It’s a welcome sight and fosters a warm sense of community. The trails take you to stunning vistas only seen by snowmobile. Secret sights await that only you’ll know deep in the woods. The region’s history is cast in copper. Coming from Wisconsin or Lower Michigan – one of the first iconic views you’ll notice is the Quincy Mine standing tall in the hills of Hancock. From Copper Harbor to the Porcupine Mountains, copper mines were king here until
Welcome to the Keweenaw.
off the beaten path
“Spend a few extra days if you’re debating the travel – you’ll never regret time in the Keweenaw and you won’t want to go home once you’re here.”
continued from page 32
the early-to-mid 1900s. A large lode of copper ran down the peninsula, making profits for many investors who mined its depths. Railroads were used to transport all of the mine product, and after the trains became obsolete – the tracks were turned into trails. It’s a scenic and sturdy perk of riding the region – the trails go by snowy lakes, through thick forests and across trestles and bridges that once fueled America’s copper rush.
The Keweenaw is the snowcovered thumb of Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula. This remote but rewarding destination is only five hours from Duluth, Minnesota, and about four to five hours north of Green Bay, Wisconsin. For just a short Midwest drive, you can jump right into more snow and less crowds. Thinking about coming from Lower Michigan? It’s a bit further but so worth it. A trip from Detroit to
Houghton, Michigan can take about eight or nine hours. Spend a few extra days if you’re debating the travel – you’ll never regret time in the Keweenaw and you won’t want to go home once you’re here.
SNOWMOBILE 720 FEET ABOVE SEA LEVEL
Let’s get right to the peak. The Keweenaw is home to the highest drive in the Midwest between the Rocky and Allegheny Mountains. Brockway Mountain is lined with the nine-mile Brockway Mountain Drive. It was a work project built during the Great Depression to boost jobs and future tourism in the area and is still a busy place. In summer – it’s a gorgeous scenic drive for cars offering 360 views of Lake Superior and Copper Harbor. In winter – it’s exclusively open to snowmobiles! A gate goes up preventing cars and trucks (they’d get stuck anyway…) but
snowmobile traffic is welcome come winter. The scenic range is breathtaking – a must see on a snowmobile. You’ll go up Brockway Mountain from Copper Harbor and rise to the sky. It’s a thrilling feeling on top of the range – check out the viewing areas to the north and south.
Copper Harbor is a prime example of the area’s geography. The Keweenaw is hilly, with exposed bedrock seen around Brockway Mountain. From its viewing points you can see Lake Fanny Hooe to the north, and on a clear day – Isle Royale National Park. Look to the south and you’re greeted with the Keweenaw’s rugged coastline. On wavy days – it’s captivating to watch the churning shores as blocks of ice flow with Lake Superior. After you’re done admiring Brockway Mountain’s mesmerizing
Snowmobile thrills can be found on Brockway Mountain Drive.
INDIAN RIVER
off the beaten path
continued from page 34 offerings, start up your sled and go into Copper Harbor. After the epic journey uphill you’ll be ready for a cold one at the Mariner North. It’s the place to be in Keweenaw County for the social scene – and has trail-to-door cabins and motel rooms. The Mariner is one of the oldest businesses in Copper Harbor and has an affinity for snowmobiles. The Mariner’s owners Don and Peggy Kauppi are some of the friendliest folks you’ll meet and are a joy to run into at the restaurant.
SET YOUR GPS TO THE END OF THE WORLD
When the snow has been falling heavily – conditions allow for snowmobilers to reach High Rock Bay. It’s a coveted location at true north in the Keweenaw. Snowmobilers beware: there is no cell signal out here. But, if you use caution and let someone know where you’re headed – it’s a 10mile stretch north from Copper Harbor. Follow signs keeping
you left to High Rock Bay past US-41. You’ll see uninterrupted views of the Keweenaw’s mighty northern shores. High Rock Bay is a gorgeous place – but make sure to check trail conditions or ask a few locals in Copper Harbor what it’s like before committing to this section.
FROZEN WATERFALLS AND A RECENTLY REOPENED TRAIL
South of Copper Harbor in Lake Linden/Hubbell – Trail 3 passes over Dover Creek and to the left is a series of waterfalls. Pack your snowshoes and plan for a quick trek up to see the frozen Hungarian Falls. It’s a gorgeous, winding path uphill from the trail but offers stunning views of the gorge below and Torch Lake.
If you’re not into hiking, just take a break to take in views from the snowmobile bridge over Dover Creek at the Hungarian Falls trailhead. This part of Trail 3 was recently reopened, and this
winter is looking promising for snowmobilers returning to the 14mile stretch through the Eastern Keweenaw. It’s straight and takes you a different direction instead of north like Trail 17 out of Hancock to Calumet. Trail 3 goes from Hancock to Dollar Bay to Lake Linden, and is a vital connection to the Dreamland Trails – and the Dreamland Bar. The Dreamland Trails are a small subsection of trail around Portage Lake and Dreamland, Michigan. They’re tight, technical and winding – seriously! Take these trails slow. One spot crosses a lake when conditions allow. It’s home to the Dreamland Bar/Restaurant – a wood-cabin style bar with a serious stake in snowmobiling. It’s right on the trail east of Lake Linden through Bootjack and has a hearty American diner menu. Depending on the day, you’ll find great specials that hit the spot for the hungry riders. Look outside for a sign paying respect to some of the original folks who helped
Take it easy on the trails! Ride right and never ride above your ability.
pioneer snowmobile trails in the Keweenaw. Their family members still own and operate the bar. Another easy-to-see waterfall: Eagle River Lower Falls. It’s a short jot from the end of Trail 151’s trailhead in Eagle River. This frozen waterfall is one of the largest and easiest to access in winter. Eagle River is also home to one of the Keweenaw’s finest dining establishments: Fitzgerald’s. The restaurant features lake views with most tables and punches hard with a delicious menu of smokehouse BBQ creations. If you like craft beer, cocktails and quality food – you should make a reservation at what the locals lovingly call “The Fitz”.
STAY UP LATE –IF YOU CAN!
Despite being cold, snowy
COPPER HARBOR
and windy – when you come to the Keweenaw to snowmobile you should check the space forecast. Houghton and Keweenaw County boast some of the darkest skies in the Midwest, being mostly free of light pollution unlike large cities and urban areas. If you’re coming from the city – simply look up at night to be amazed by endless galaxies and constellations of stars dotting the sky. On a clear night, you can pick out the Milky
Keweenaw Snowmobile Club Groomer at the Portage Lake Lift Bridge.
continued from page 37
Reser vations: 8 88-315-2378
Email : newberryabvi@gmail.com www.redlion.com/newberry.com 12956 State Route M-28 - Newberry
Way and if the odds are in your favor – the Northern Lights come out. Download apps like My Aurora Forecast to stay on top of the latest space weather conditions and aurora alerts – this is what causes the Northern Lights.
WHERE TO STAY:
The Keweenaw is perfect for trail-to-door riding and lodging. When you’re traveling with snowmobiles you’ll need parking, comfortable rooms and family-friendly accommodations.
Keweenaw Waters Resort (Houghton): Go no further than the top of the Bill Nichols Trail in Houghton. Keweenaw Waters is a drop-dead gorgeously constructed cabin resort on the edge of the Portage Canal in Houghton. It’s at the edge of the Bill
Nichols Trail, which leads you into Houghton and south to Mass City or sets you up for easy day trips to the Porcupine Mountains and Greenland. It’s got plenty of trailer parking.
Ramada Inn (Hancock): The Ramada Inn of Hancock is perched on the Portage Canal looking up at the marvelous Portage Lake Lift Bridge. This hotel features a pool and has a large parking lot for your trailers. It’s right at the start of Trails 17 to Calumet and Trail 3 to Dollar Bay.
Trailside Lodge (Calumet): The Trailside Lodge is the ultimate snowmobile lodging destination. You’ll turn right off US-41 north of Calumet at the large wooden snowmobile sign. The cabin-style motel sits parallel to
One of the most unique views is riding under the Portage Lake Lift Bridge. Make sure to verify it’s open and crossable.
Trail 17 – taking you north toward Copper Harbor or south to Houghton. The Trailside Lodge is home to Copper Country Rentals which has snowmobile rentals if you can’t bring your own.
WHERE TO PARK YOUR TRAILER
• South Range: You can park across from the VFW near South Range’s baseball fields with snowmobile trailers.
• Houghton: You can park under the Lift Bridge or at Ray Kestner Waterfront Park.
• Laurium: Parking is available at the George Gipp Ice Arena. Park away from the building. Make sure to avoid the chain link fencing.
• Eagle Harbor: Find parking in Eagle Harbor at the 152 Trailhead.
KEWEENAW PSA:
• Make sure to check the Houghton-Hancock bridge status. If you’re planning to snowmobile between Houghton and Hancock, be sure to verify online or with the Keweenaw Snowmobile Club on Facebook that the Portage Lake Lift Bridge crossing is open. This exciting stretch allows snowmobiles to cross a snow road on the lower level of the Keweenaw’s lift bridge.
• Plan for no cell signal. Gas is available at the Phoenix General Store, the Lac La Belle Lodge and the Copper Harbor Fuel Stop. Make sure you plan your fuel ups accordingly north of Calumet. You’ll likely lose cell signal past Ahmeek so be sure to download or print a Keweenaw Snowmobile map from the DNR.
HOUGHTON LAKE
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? WINTER’S HERE
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the trails, Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula is a snowmobiler’s paradise waiting to be explored. From exhilarating climbs to breathtaking views, tight technical routes to scenic waterfalls, there’s no better place to embrace winter’s wild side. Pack your gear, fuel up, and set your GPS to Keweenaw North! Adventure is calling this winter and Lake Superior and the Keweenaw Peninsula are ready to deliver. Let’s ride! Head to www. visitkeweenaw.com for the area’s current trail conditions, and more recommendations on where to stay and eat. •
Houghton Lake Higgins Lake
A Vintage
Polaris Story
BY RYAN BLAINE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
In Christmas of 1969 my Grandpa Keith Blain purchased a 1970 Polaris Mustang as a gift for his 9 kids. He then added a 1969 Polaris Playmate a few weeks later. This is when my dad, Jim Blain’s love for Polaris Snowmobiles was born!
In August of 1974 my Dad purchased his first snowmobile, a 1974 TX 440 from the Lockwood Marina in Lake, MI. (nicknamed Wheezy after the sales lady who sold him the sled).
4yrs later after marrying my mom, Pam Blain
a second sled was added so she too could ride. It was a 1978 Polaris TX 440 purchased from Magnus Tractor Sales in Clare, MI. Not to be outdone in speed, my mom was demoted to Wheezy. Not long after that my dad accepted a job offer at “Magnus” to become a Polaris technician. He attended the Polaris factory tech school in Roseau, MN.
Soon after, the 1981 Indy 500 Centurion was added. My brother (Jimmy Blain) & I, were then drawn into the hobby,
vintage sled
continued from page 40 giving us many years of fun and enjoyment well into the late 80’s and early 90’s.
Chapters of life changed and snowmobiling became less of a priority but Dad still hung on to all 3 original sleds (the 74 & 78 TX’s and the 81 Indy).
In the winter of 2013 our love for snowmobiles was revitalized. My dad and I now 40 and 60yrs old attended our first vintage ice oval race together in Marion, MI. It was that year that I told my Dad we’ve got to put a race sled together! Later that summer I found a 1978 Polaris 340 TXL under an oak tree
in Lake George, MI for $50. A year later in 2014 after finding it and partially restoring it we were now proudly “Blain Racing”. Years of Dads maintenance & fine tuning skills then came back into play along with my desire to go fast and turn left, we managed to win a few trophy’s and more importantly make some life long family memories that will not soon be forgotten! Along with racing we also got involved in shows, swap meets and my favorite “snowmobile flag parades”. My Dad and I’s years of Military Service in the US Army and our love for God and Country influenced our
love of the “Red, White and Blue” which Polaris also incorporated in to most of their color schemes in the 70’s and 80’s
We have been to lots of great shows and swaps around the state and even one in Maumie, OH put on by Dan Cunningham and one in Roseau, MN for the 65th and the 70th Polaris Anniversary.
In the Winter of 2017 we convinced the Marion Snowfest Board to allow us to take a few sleds out on the track to display the “Colors” to honor Veterans and local spectators during the national anthem and opening ceremony before the
continued on page 44
2019 CHOKO SNOWMOBILE SUIT WINNERS
The womens Snowmobile Suit winner was Kim Fredenberg of Wayland, MI. Men’s Core 2 piece suit or Ladies Nordik 2 piece suit
I would like to thank you for the Choko jacket and bibs. It looks great! I look forward to using it on the snowmobile rides next season.
80 ACRES ON PREVO RD IN BAY COUNTY
with woods, some cleared land, 2 stocked ponds, excellent for hunting & recreational use with several potential building sites! SURVEY AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST BILL BAIRD (989)992-2137
My husband and I rode in the Cadillac area and the UP from Newberry to Paradise when our kids were young. My husband pulled a sleigh behind his snowmobile with 2 of the kids in it, while i rode two-up with the other. We had many good times with the kids on the trail. Now that we are empty nesters we still love to ride in the Munising, Grand Marais and Seney areas. We enjoy taking our time on the trail taking in the sights and visiting waterfa houses. Thanks again. Kim Fredenburg The mens Snowmobile suit Winner was Joel Reeves of Franksville, WI.
To qualify to win just complete the information on the entry form. Winners are responsible for any shipping or transportation costs and no cash equivalent will be given. Deadline for entries February 28, 2025
Mail Entry Form to Michigan Snowmobiler Magazine PO Box 171 • New Lothrop, MI 48460 One Entry Per Person
EAST JORDAN
sled
continued from page 42
racing began. Needless to say it was a hit and the very next year we were asked by the board if we could get more flags and sleds out on the track for the parade! So we got to work and put 50 flags together on poles for the 2018 race and show. We had a pretty good turn out (38) I believe that year. As you can imagine however it was not easy task to coordinate that many sleds, flags and drivers around the track to be at the right place at the right time before the racing could begin! 2019 was where it all seemed to finally come together! What a year that was! We not only had 50 flags but we also had Don Brown as a special guest! Don was the 1970 I-500 winner aboard his 1970 Chapparal, that’s him on Big Red.
Like the Marion Vintage Snowmobile races, we also held similar parades at the Ogemaw Hills show, Fast Eddie’s in Houghton Lake and even at the Soo I-500, just to mention a few. In 2020 DTE Energy sponsored a 20’x30’ American Flag that we used during the I-500 snowmobile race opening ceremonies. With the help
continued on page 46
continued from page 44 of the I-500 board we have now been part of the opening ceremonies since. We have also been able to use the big flag at the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum show and ride, put on by Charlie & Marilyn Vallier
The whole Vintage Snowmobile experience has been such a blast and I have enjoyed every moment of it all. Thanks Mom & Dad for your dedication and inspiration in keeping the Vintage Snowmobile hobby alive!
More about Wheezy’s restoration story to come in future issues. •
