What’s Inside : Baraga County | I-500: Behind The Scenes | Northern Power Race Park Hitting International Stage
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What’s Inside
6
6 10
Baraga County
The ride that exposes hidden sites.
Under the Helmet: More Than a Championship
How DL Racing built a winning season one weekend at a time.
20
MIRA Photo Gallery
23
MISORVA Special Report
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42
I-500: Behind the Scenes
Caroline Brandow and the I-500 Race Committee.
Northern Power Race Park Hitting International Stage
ON THE COVER: DL Racing looking to repeat the MIRA championship in 2027.
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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2026
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COPPER HARBOR VOLUME 60 - NUMBER 1 Founded September 1967
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GAYLORD
Baraga County off the beaten trail
The Ride That Exposes Hidden Sites BY JOYCE WISWELL CONTRIBUTING WRITER
T
he chance to experience sites and trails that are usually off limits is one of the big draws to the annual ATV Wilderness Adventure on October 3. The Baraga County Chamber of Commerce sponsors the event, which explores the scenic forest of the Huron Mountains. Another highlight of the day comes at the halfway point, when riders stop to enjoy freshly made pasties atop Mt. Arvon, Michigan’s highest point, in L’Anse. This is the seventh year for the guided ride, which by special permission traverses private land that is owned by Lyme Great Lakes Timberlands and The Nature Conservancy. Riders travel on two-tracks, railroad grades, and unimproved trails. “Everyone is always very excited and think it’s way cool,” said Mary Mervar, associate executive director of the Baraga County
Chamber. “People come from different states and come back year after year.” In fact, the event – which is limited to 75 machines – typically sells out by mid to late August, so don’t delay buying tickets if you want to ride along. Groups of 25 machines depart at 8:30, 9:30, and 10:30 am at the Roland Lake gravel pit in Arvon Township. The later start time is recommended for lessexperienced drivers or those who prefer a slower-paced ride. The day includes much of the gorgeous scenery for which the Upper Peninsula is rightly famous. Expect some steep terrain, deep forests, dramatic waterfalls, and an old slate quarry. The Rock Cut is a particular standout. This man-made gorge was created in the 1890s to build a train to haul iron ore from a nearby mine. Two million dollars and the sweat of 1,500 workers later, the mine stopped producing by continued on page 8
6 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
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s e d Cly Keweenaw Peninsula INE AREA Drive--in Drive
the season tosnowmobiles ride snowmobiles -- but be the season to ride snowmobiles -- but enot thebe season to ride -- but AYS the season to on work the snowmobile S the season work on the snowmobile hethe season tototo work theon snowmobile season ride snowmobiles -- but lp support your local snowmobile clubs. Join support your local snowmobile clubs. Join pport your local snowmobile clubs. Join he season to work on the snowmobile Home of
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pport your local snowmobile clubs. Join “C” the BIG rt Motel Clydes Colossal
3/4 lb. Fresh Ground Beef Hamburger nge •Gas Keweenaw Peninsula Keweenaw Peninsula Peninsula ling Lane PINE WHITE PINE AREAKeweenaw WHITE PINE AREA WHITE AREA CALUMET Keweenaw Peninsula CALUMET p CALUMET WHITE PINE AREA snowmobile CALUMET KONTEKA KONTEKA KONTEKA l and Black Bear Resort Motel Stay and Play Packages available at the Bear Resort Motel Black Bear Resort Motel ayBlack from Lake Superior KONTEKA •Restaurant & •Gas Lounge •Restaurant & Lounge •Gas•Gas Restaurant & Lounge •Restaurant Trailside Lodge Snowmobile & ATV’s Black Bear Resort Motel upine Mountains •Trail Permits •Bowling Lane •Trail Permits •Bowling Lane Trail Permits •Bowling Lane Call (906) 341-6021 Restaurant Lounge •Gas • Gift Rentals Serving the Entire Keweenaw. •&Gift ShopShop • Gift Shop eTrail Pine, MI 201 Chippewa Ave. Manistique, MI 49854 Permits •Bowling Lane on snowmobile the snowmobile Located on the atedLocated rightright on right the snowmobile cated continued from page 6 coppercountryrental.com just off trail 2 • Gift Shop trailLocated and trailtrail andand 906-885-5170 om the time theavailable project was completed. The tracks were and Play Packages at the Stay Stay and Play Packages available at the ated right on the snowmobile
just a miles few miles away from Lake SuperiorStay and Play Packages available at the a few away from Lake Superior stjust a few miles away from Lake Superior ust ripped up&and shipped downstate, and the land was Trailside Lodge Snowmobile & ATV’s Trailside Lodge Snowmobile & ATV’s trail and Trailside Lodge Snowmobile ATV’s the Porcupine Mountains the Porcupine Mountains andand the and Porcupine Mountains Stay andRentals Play Packages available at Keweenaw. the The picturesque spot is normally sold for $500,000. Serving the Entire Rentals Serving the Entire Keweenaw. st a few miles away from Lake Superior Rentals Serving the Entire Keweenaw. inPine, White in White Pine, MI MI in White MIPine, Trailside Lodge Snowmobile & ATV’s not publicly accessible. coppercountryrental.com coppercountryrental.com and the Porcupine Mountains 906-885-5170 Rentalscoppercountryrental.com www.thekonteka.com 906-885-5170 www.thekonteka.com 906-885-5170 www.thekonteka.com Serving the Entire Keweenaw. You never quite know what to expect. Two single in White Pine, MI coppercountryrental.com people met during the event, sparked up a romance, ww.thekonteka.com 906-885-5170 and were married a year later. The couple came back for the ride the next year. Voted “TOP PITSTOP” Voted “TOP PITSTOP” byAdventure Sno-goer Voted “TOP PITSTOP” Wilderness occursMagazine! rain or shine – or SYNTHOIL SUPPLY Direct Jobber 34396 by Sno-goer Magazine! snow, Mervar added, since you never know what to by Sno-goer Magazine! by Sno-goer Magazine! Voted “TOP PITSTOP” Follow us on FB for deals & Updates! expect the UP. Follow usin on FBWestern forFB deals & Updates! us on for deals & Updates! Follow usFollow on FB for deals & Updates! 26900-901 E 12TH STREET by Sno-goer Magazine! Mervar especially enjoyed outing, HUBBELL, MI 49934 Visit us on the web at: Visit us on theusweb at: on Visit onus the weblast at:year’s Visit the web at: which Follow us onafter FB for deals & Updates! came a few days of rain. She, her husband, and 906-231-2888 www.gogebiclodge.com www.gogebiclodge.com www.gogebiclodge.com their daughter mraff@chartermi.net Visit15-year-old us onwww.gogebiclodge.com the web at: joined the fun on their sidewww.synthetic-oil.com by-side. Mervar hopped off to take pictures while her www.gogebiclodge.com daughter, a lifelong rider, gleefully took the controls to plow through giant mudholes. CALL OR EMAIL US The ride concludes between CALL ORCALL EMAIL TO TO OR US EMAIL US 4 TOand 6 pm, depending on the start time, and one tank of gas is ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE ADVERTISE INTO THIS SPACE CALL OR The EMAIL sufficient. rest US is self-explanatory – though the TIFUL LAKE GOGEBIC L LAKE GOGEBIC Authorized Dealer EAUTIFUL LAKE GOGEBIC ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE chamber has learned to tell attendees to wear CALL OR EMAIL US TOsturdy Snowmobiling • Fishing wmobiling • Fishing • Fishing ng • Snowmobiling L LAKE GOGEBIC shoes. “Some,” Mervar said, “were showing up in -Bedroom Cabins droom Cabins 8 Two-Bedroom Cabins ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE flip-flops.” wmobiling ••to Fishing come • Access to Trail e • Access Trail #1to#1 Welcome Access Trail #1 droom Cabins Tickets are $40 per machine and driver and $10 CasterCard/Discover Card/Discover Accepted d/Discover Accepted Accepted miles from US 2 and 6 miles from M-28 from US 2 and 6 miles from M-28 from US 2 and 6 miles from M-28 e • Access to Trail #1 per passenger. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/19869 64, 12 miles from US 2 and 6 miles from M-28 wy. M-64 •M-64 Marenisco, MI 49947 M-64 ••Hwy. Marenisco, MI M-64 Marenisco, MI 49947 49947 tate • Marenisco, MI 49947 d/Discover Accepted 02366464?aff=oddtdtcreator 231-536-2371 231-536-2371 231-536-2371 to purchase. Pasties, from US 2 and 6 milesHwy from M-28 336/888-813-7778 6/888-813-7778 M-28 | Bergland, MI 49910 2-3336/888-813-7778 $10 each, must be ordered in advance by emailing M-64 • Marenisco, MI 49947 publisher@michsnowmag.com publisher@michsnowmag.com shoreresort.com publisher@michsnowmag.com www.timberlinesport.com reresort.com westshoreresort.com 231-536-2371 baragachamberoffice@gmail.com. Questions? 6/888-813-7778 T RA IL P ERMITS • R EN TA L S 1 Call the chamber at (906) 353-8808 Mondaypublisher@michsnowmag.com reresort.com SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • ACCESSORIES Wednesday. • d
HUBBELL
E THE LAKE IT THE LAKE HE LAKE HE LAKE A EBIC AREA GEBIC AREA BIC AREA
IC AREA WINTER! WINTER! IS WINTER! WINTER!
LAKE stShore Shore Resort Resort West Shore ResortGOGEBIC Shore Resort
ort
M-28
7
8 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
Gogebic Lodge
Voted “TOP PITSTOP” Gogebic Lodge Gogebic Lodge Gogebic Lodge Gogebic Lodge 906-842-3321 906-842-3321 906-842-3321 906-842-3321 906-842-3321
MANISTIQUE
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LODGING
BUDGET HOST INN GRAY WOLF LODGE NORTHSHORE MOTEL 6031 W US Hwy 2 6770W US Hwy 2 801 E Lakeshore Dr. 906.341.2552 906.341.2410 906.341.4151 COLONIAL MOTEL LODGING HARBOR MOTEL STAR MOTEL GRAY WOLF LODGE 1142 E Lakeshore Dr. NORTHSHORE MOTEL 1119 E. Lakeshore Drive BUDGET HOST INN311 Cedar St. 6031 W US Hwy 2 6770W US Hwy 2 801 E Lakeshore Dr. 906.341.6656 906.341.2552 906.341.5191 906.341.5363 906.341.2410 906.341.4151 COLONIAL MOTEL HARBOR MOTEL MOTEL COMFORT INN MOTEL QUALITY INN & SUITESSTAR 1119 E. LakeshoreHOLIDAY Drive 311 Cedar St. 1142 E Lakeshore Dr. LODGING 617 Lakeshore Drive 906.341.6656 5939 W US Hwy 2 906.341.5191 905 E Lakeshore Dr. 906.341.5363 COMFORT INN GRAY WOLF LODGE GRAY BUDGET HOST WOLF INN LODGE NORTHSHORE MOTEL NORTH HOLIDAY MOTEL QUALITY INN & SUITES 906.341.6981 617 Lakeshore Drive 906.341.2710 906.341.3777 6031 W US Hwy 2 6770W US Hwy 2 6770W US Hwy 2 801 E Lakeshore Dr. 801 E 5939 W US Hwy 2 905 E Lakeshore Dr. L ODGINGLODGING 906.341.6981 906.341.2410 906.341.2552 ECONO LODGE 906.341.2410 906.34 906.341.2710 906.341.4151 906.341.3777 DGET HOST INN BUDGET HOST INN MOTEL GRAY WOLF LODGE NORTHSHORE MOTEL GRAY WOLF LODGE NORTHSHORE MANISTIQUE SANDS QUALITY INNMOTEL MOTEL ECONO LODGE COLONIAL MOTEL HARBOR HARBOR MOTEL STAR STAR M 1101 E. Lakeshore Dr. 1 W US311 Hwy 26031 W US Hwy 2 1101 E. Lakeshore Dr. 6770W US Hwy 2 6770W US Hwy 2 801 E Lakeshore 801 Dr. 6670 W U.S. 2 & SUITES 1119 E.Cedar Lakeshore Drive St. 311 Cedar St. 1142EELakeshore LakeshoreDr. Dr. 1142 E .341.2552 906.341.2552 906.341.2410 906.341.4151 906.341.6014 906.341.2410 906.341.2410 905 E 906.341.4151 Lakeshore Dr. 906.341.6656 906.341.5191 906.341.5191 906.341.5363 906.34 906.341.6014 LONIAL MOTELCOMFORT COLONIAL MOTELWOLF LODGE 906.341.3777 GRAY HARBOR MOTEL HARBOR MOTEL NORTHSHORE MOTEL STAR MOTEL STAR MOTEL INN
HOLIDAY MOTEL HOLIDAY MOTEL QUALITY INN & SUITES QUALIT MORE AREA ATTRACTIONS ACTIVITIES 9 E. Lakeshore 1119 Drive E. Lakeshore Drive 6770W US Hwy 2Hwy 311 Cedar St. St. Dr. E&Lakeshore 1142 Dr.EELakeshore LakeshoreDr. Dr. 617 Lakeshore Drive 5939 W US 2311 5939Cedar W US801 HwyE 2Lakeshore1142 905 905 E L .341.6656 906.341.6656 906.341.6981 906.341.2410 BEAUTIFUL 906.341.5191 906.341.5191 906.341.4151 906.341.5363 906.341.5363 SNOWMOBILE RENTALS LAKE MICHIGAN BEACHES 906.341.2710 906.341.2710 906.341.3777 906.34 MFORT INN COMFORT INN ECONO LODGE HARBOR MOTELFISHING/BIKING/HIKING HOLIDAY MOTEL HOLIDAY MOTEL STAR MOTEL QUALITY INN & SUITES QUALITY INN & SUITES SNOWMOBILING 150 MILES Lakeshore Drive 617 Drive LCOME 905 Drive 1101Lakeshore E. Lakeshore Dr.St. ORV 311 Cedar 5939TRAILS W US Hwy 25939HAYWIRE W US1142 Hwy E2 Lakeshore 905 Dr.WEELakeshore Dr. OF E Lakeshore Dr. (FAMOUS GRADE) GROOMED TRAILS • ICE FISHING ON MULTIPLE .341.6981 906.341.6981 BILERS906.341.3777 SNOWMOBILE RENTALS BEAUTIFUL LAKE MICHIGAN BEACHES O 906.341.6014 M 906.341.5191 GEOCACHE 906.341.2710 906.341.2710 906.341.5363 906.341.3777 W O N S SNOWSHOEING • CROSS COUNTRY SKIING ONO LODGE ECONO LODGE HOLIDAY MOTELTAHQUAMENON FALLS QUALITY INN & SUITES FISHING/BIKING/HIKING SNOWMOBILING 150 MILESEBEN ICE CAVES 1101 Dr. E. Lakeshore Dr.ACTIVITIES ONS MORE & AREA ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES e1 E. Lakeshore 5939 W US Hwy 2 905 FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO: Dr. OMEE Lakeshore C L .341.6014 906.341.6014 E W ORV TRAILS (FAMOUS HAYWIRE GRADE) 906.341.3777 SNOWMOBILE SNOWMOBILE BEAUTIFUL 906.341.2710 LAKE MICHIGAN BEACHES OF GROOMEDRENTALS TRAILS • ICERENTALS FISHING ON MULTIPLE INLAND LAKES
MORE AREA ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
S V I S I OTBILERM ANISTIQUE.CO SNOWSHOEING • CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
SNOWMOBILING SNOWMOBILING 150 MILES 150 MILES GEOCACHE ORE AREA MORE ATTRACTIONS AREA ATTRACTIONS ME & ACTIVITIES ME Dr. LCO E(FAMOUS SWNEO&LWCOMACTIVITIES ORV W TRAILS HAYWIRE GRADE) FISHING/BIKING/HIKING
ORVs
OFS GROOMED OF GROOMED TRAILS • ICE FISHING TRAILS ON MULTIPLE • INLAND ICE LAKES FISH ILERS OBBEACHES OBILER RENTALS SNOWMOBILE SNOWMOBILE RENTALS UTIFUL LAKE MICHIGAN BEAUTIFUL BEACHES LAKE MICHIGAN M NOW SGEOCACHE SNOWM SNOWSHOEING SNOWSHOEING • CROSS COUNTRY • SKIING CROSS COUNTR HING/BIKING/HIKING FISHING/BIKING/HIKING TAHQUAMENON FALLS SNOWMOBILING 150 SNOWMOBILING MILES 150 MILES E E M M O O ATRAILS ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES C C L L EBEN EBEN ICE ICE CAVES CAVES E WE W (FAMOUS ORV HAYWIRE TRAILS (FAMOUS HAYWIRE GRADE) OF GROOMED OF GROOMED • ICE FISHING TRAILS ON MULTIPLE • ICE FISHING INLAND ON MULTIPLE LAKES INLAND LAKES O: FOR MOREGRADE) INFORMATION GO RS TRAILS ILERS BTO: O CACHEBEACHES GEOCACHE M MOBILE W W O O SNOWMOBILE RENTALS HIGAN SN SN SNOWSHOEING • CROSS SNOWSHOEING COUNTRY• SKIING CROSS COUNTRY SKIING QUAMENON FALLS TAHQUAMENON FALLS NG SNOWMOBILING 150 MILES EBEN ICE CAVES EBEN ICE CAVES E LCOMTO: EGO RHAYWIRE MOREGRADE) INFORMATION FOR MORE WINFORMATION GO TO: MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2026 | 9 OF GROOMED TRAILS • ICE FISHING ON MULTIPLE INLAND LAKES S R OBILE SNOWM SNOWSHOEING • CROSS COUNTRY SKIING S
TAHQUAMENON FALLS
FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO:
EBEN ICE CAVES
VISITMANISTIQUE.COM
A VN I S I TIM S A N IT STIQ I UQ E.CO U M E
More Than a
Championship How DL Racing Built a Winning Season One Weekend at a Time BY KIM KISNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOBBI PRUETER
10 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
Under the Helmet brought to you by
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inning a M.I.R.A. Pro Enduro championship isn’t about one great race. It’s built long before the season begins through preparation, consistency and the ability to perform at a high level every time the sled unloads from the trailer. Every race matters. Every pit stop matters. Every decision made in the shop has a way of showing up somewhere during the season. DL Racing understood that from the beginning of 2026. The team didn’t spend the winter chasing a championship as much as it focused on building a better race program. Led by team owner Don LaBean, with Joey Burch and Nick Wickerham sharing driving duties and a veteran crew supporting them in the pits, the team steadily found its rhythm after an uneven start at Eagle River. By season’s end, DL Racing had won three of four races, led hundreds of laps and claimed the 2026 M.I.R.A. Pro Enduro championship. Looking back, no one points to a single moment that made the difference. Instead, everyone seems to return to the same themes: preparation, communication, consistency and the people behind the scenes who made each race weekend possible. “We were just more consistent,” Bobbi Prueter said. For Burch, consistency begins long before the first green flag. “It’s the hours in the shop getting ready,” he said. “The main thing is being prepared for anything that can happen. Everybody has their part. If one spoke is loose in the wheel, things fall apart.”
W
a Don L
a Be
n
continued on page 12 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2026 | 11
under the helmet
“ I’ve never been part of a team that can think more than two weeks ahead, let alone one or two years down the line. We’re racing today, but we’re already talking about what we can do better for next year.” – Joey Burch continued from page 11
Building a successful Enduro team takes more than putting fast drivers on competitive sleds. LaBean launched DL Racing in 2010 before stepping away from the sport for a few seasons. When the team returned in 2023, he began putting the program back together one piece at a time. Joey Burch was the first driver he brought into the fold. Nick Wickerham joined him, giving DL Racing two drivers who already knew how to race well together from previous teams.
Around them, much of the core remained the same. Several longtime crew members stayed with DL Racing, along with
12 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
LaBean’s three sons in the pits. Instead of starting from scratch, the team combined an established foundation with new pieces that quickly found their rhythm. What impressed Wickerham most wasn’t just the equipment it was the mindset. “I’ve never been part of a team that can think more than two weeks ahead, let alone one or two years down the line,” he said. “We’re racing today, but we’re already talking about what we can do better for next year.” continued on page 14
S A L E S | R E N TA L S | S E R V I C E | P A R T S | A P P A R E L
Central UP's Largest Retail Accessory Dealer
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E 9650 Prospect St Munising, MI
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SENEY Seney Snowmobile Association Striving to provide you with safe & smooth trails
Groomer’s Ball
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MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2026
| 13
under the helmet
continued from page 12
Burch sees the same thing. Throughout the summer, LaBean is already discussing ideas, improvements and ways to make the sleds better before the next season even begins. “He’s thinking about it all year,” Burch said. “He’s always trying to find something that gives us an edge.” The season itself didn’t begin the way anyone hoped. After deciding to open the season with two sleds instead of committing to one, DL Racing left Eagle River knowing the weekend hadn’t gone according to plan. “I’ll take the blame for that one,” LaBean said. “Last year we got caught up early and
didn’t get the points we should have, so I thought we’d try two sleds. Looking back, that wasn’t the right decision. This year we’ll race one sled — the No. 29.” Looking back, everyone remembers leaving knowing there was work to do, but no one imagined what the season would eventually become. “We definitely didn’t think it would end this way,” Burch said. Rather than dwelling on the opening race, DL Racing settled into the season. Race after race, the team became more efficient. The sleds became more refined. Pit stops became faster. Confidence continued to build. continued on page 16
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under the helmet
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By the time the schedule reached Gaylord and Lincoln, the results reflected that progress. DL Racing led 220 of 300 laps at Gaylord and another 245 of 300 laps at Lincoln, winning with the kind of consistency that left little doubt who had the strongest program. For Prueter, that’s what made the season especially satisfying. “There are years where you win because somebody else has problems or things just work out your way,” she said. “This year we earned it.” Every successful Enduro team depends on communication, and for DL Racing, Prueter has become a critical part of that process. Throughout each race, she’s responsible for keeping the drivers informed about pit strategy, traffic and changing situations around the track while serving as the steady voice in their headsets. “I honestly never wanted to be on the radios,” she said. “It just kind of got thrown at me.” Now, the team can’t imagine operating any other way. “If Nick or Joey get worked up, I try to stay calm,” she said. “I talk the way I want their energy to be.” That communication extends well beyond the radios. Wickerham credits the team’s fast pit stops as one of its biggest competitive advantages, saying the crew consistently gained positions during stops while getting the sleds back on the track quickly. “You can put us on video with a stopwatch,” he said. “We’ll come into the pits fourth and leave first.” Just as important, everyone listens. Drivers communicate what the sled is doing. The continued on page 18
16 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
Located in Reese, Michigan, Finishline Shocks specializes in high-performance suspension solutions for trail riding enthusiasts . Owned and operated by Dave Hausbeck, a seasoned competitor in Alaska’s renowned Iron Dog Snowmobile Race, the company is driven by expertise and passion for the sport. Dave personally builds and tunes each set of shocks to ensure peak performance, durability, and customer satisfaction. Elevate your trail ride with custom-crafted shocks tailored to take your snowmobile to the next level. We specialize in Walker Evans and Polaris skids, but can build multiple other brands of shocks. “Dave is the man to see for shocks on your Polaris sleds. I’ve had him do a few sleds for me over the years, and they have turned out great. Anyone who rides my sled with the finish line shocks on it is blown away of how well they ride compared to stock sleds. If you want the full potential out of your sled, go see Dave. You will not regret it.”
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under the helmet
continued from page 16
mechanics make adjustments. The pit crew knows what’s coming before the sled reaches the box. Each part of the operation depends on the others, and over the course of the season, that trust continued to grow. “Our pit crew trusted themselves a lot more this year,” Prueter said. “As the season went on, their confidence just kept building.” The relationships within DL Racing extend well beyond race day. This is a race team, but it’s
also a group that genuinely enjoys spending time together away from the track. There are weekends riding motorcycles, dinners together, time at LaBean’s lake house and a group text that stays active throughout the year. Wickerham talks with LaBean’s sons almost every day, often about things that have nothing to do with racing. “We’re a team, but we’re definitely a family,” he said. LaBean agrees. Already the
18 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
father of three sons who are part of the pit crew, he says Burch and Wickerham have become part of that family as well. “I’ve got five boys now,” he said. When asked what they’ll remember most about the 2026 season, the answers are surprisingly different. Burch points to finally winning at Lincoln, a track where he’d always hoped to stand on top of the podium. Wickerham
2026 DL RACING SPONSORS: Woody’s Traction Gage Tool & Machine Fly Racing XLT Engineering Felegy Racing Engines USI Venom Products Polaris Racing Linwood Beach Marina ABC Coating Bourdow Trucking SpeedWerx HYMMCO Troy Pierce Racing (TPR) 2026 DL RACING TEAM: Don LaBean Joey Burch Nick Wickerham Bobbi Prueter Derek LaBean Darren LaBean DJ LaBean Brad Weaver Dana Hribek Austin Koin Scott Ballard Bob Fetters Bobby Fetters George Sherrard Mike Galarowic remembers the team’s first victory together and the dominant performances that followed. Prueter’s answer has nothing to do with race results. “I’ll remember the great times that happened off the track,” she said. It seems fitting for a team whose greatest strength may have been everything that happened before and after the racing itself. The championship was the goal, but it was built through months of preparation, countless hours in
the shop, fast pit stops, constant communication and a group of people committed to helping one another succeed every weekend they rolled into the pits. As quick as LaBean is to credit his drivers, they’re equally quick to point to the pit crew. The pit crew points to the mechanics. Everyone points to the sponsors who made the season possible. For DL Racing, that’s what made the 2026 championship special. It wasn’t the
accomplishment of one driver or one race. It belonged to an entire team that continued getting better throughout the season and earned every bit of the success that followed. DL Racing also extends its sincere gratitude to the sponsors whose support helped make the 2026 season possible, as well as the dedicated crew members, mechanics, family and volunteers whose countless hours behind the scenes often go unseen. •
MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2026
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Michigan Snowmobile and ORV Association
THE DECISIONS WILL HAPPEN.
WILL WE BE THERE? A
s we flip the calendar to September, the signs of change are already here. This past weekend, I spotted my first colored leaf. Before long, fall will settle across Michigan, snow will follow, and voters will once again choose those who will lead our state and country. For Michigan’s recreational community, change is coming in other ways, too. Amendment 305: Only the Beginning This is membership at work. Your MISORVA membership gives Karen Middendorp motorized recreation a voice beyond the Executive trail. It allows us to work with legislators, Director meet with DNR leadership, attend advisory MISORVA meetings, educate decision-makers, and — perhaps most importantly — build relationships. Amendment 305 didn’t happen overnight. It came from conversations, questions, meetings, legislative rides, and legislators willing to listen. Several passionate legislators, along with DNR officials, have helped put a Band-Aid on some of these funding concerns for now. Those same
relationships helped make Amendment 305 happen. But 305 is only the beginning.
Every recreational user group should be asking similar questions: How is our restricted recreational money being spent? Are those dollars directly benefiting the people who paid them? Why are access points, hunting areas, or DNR services being reduced while user-funded programs continue paying substantial administrative costs? These aren’t questions we ask to create conflict. We ask them because accountability matters. Working Together Instead of Against Each Other Recently, I attended a Natural Resources Commission meeting and listened to a presentation by Greenway Conservation about finding a better solution than further restricting access for duck hunters. That is what working together looks like. Different recreational interests don’t have to compete for a seat at the table. Hunters, anglers, snowmobilers, ORV riders, hikers, birdwatchers, campers, boaters, and others all share continued on page 24 MISORVA.ORG • SEPTEMBER • 2026
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WILL WE BE THERE? continued from page 23
something important: we value access to Michigan’s outdoors. Michigan recreation is woven into the fabric of our state and our tourism economy. Whether someone lives here or travels hundreds of miles to visit, Michigan is a destination. We have trails. Lakes. Rivers and streams. Hunting and fishing. ORV and snowmobile opportunities. Birdwatching. Camping. And quiet places in the woods where someone can simply get away from everything. Michigan has it all. But many of the people making recreation decisions aren’t necessarily recreationalists themselves. They may spend their days behind a desk in Lansing, far removed from a groomed snowmobile trail, an ORV route, a hunting blind, or volunteers brushing trail on a Saturday morning. Our job is to bring the trail to Lansing. And sometimes I wonder: How many of the people in DNR management who make decisions about our programs have ever actually been on a snowmobile or ridden in an ORV? Yet we expect them to make difficult decisions about our recreation and determine how our restricted user funds — our grocery money — are spent. That isn’t meant as criticism of individuals. It is exactly why education and communication matter. Decisionmakers need to understand what happens on the ground, how these programs actually operate, where the money comes from, and what the volunteers and users who fund them experience. We do that through legislative rides, meetings, photographs, facts, personal stories, and face-to-face conversations. We help elected officials and agency leaders understand not only what we do, but why it matters. That is how MISORVA uses your membership dollars. Your drop in the bucket fills it….Who Will Be in the Room? We frequently hear that today’s users simply aren’t “joiners.” And perhaps that’s true. Churches, VFW posts, Knights of Columbus chapters, service organizations, clubs, and associations across the country are struggling with declining membership and fewer volunteers. We recently watched another longtime Michigan conservation organization succumb to declining membership and financial pressures. That should concern every recreational user.
24 |
Because when an advocacy organization disappears, the issues don’t disappear with it. • The meetings still happen. • The budgets still get written. • The regulations still get proposed. • The decisions still get made. The question becomes: Who will be in the room representing the users? Who will attend the meetings most people don’t have time to attend? Who will read the budgets? Who will ask where restricted funds are going? Who will educate the people we elect? And without strong advocacy organizations representing recreational users, whose voice fills the empty chair? A New Administration Will Bring New Questions Michigan will soon elect new leadership, and eventually a new governor will appoint people who influence the direction of the Department of Natural Resources. • Who will lead the DNR? • What will that administration’s priorities be? • Will we see different management practices for recreation? • Will access expand or contract? • And how will restricted recreational funds be managed? Consider just one example: more than $1 million from the snowmobile restricted fund has been used annually for DNR staffing and administrative expenses. Imagine what another $1 million could mean on the ground. Equipment. Grooming. Trail repairs. Bridges. Signs. Emergency needs. Infrastructure. And snowmobiling isn’t the only recreation asking questions. What about ORV, hunting and fishing funds? I don’t have all of those financial answers. But I do know that, from the recent meetings I have attended, the ORV Advisory Workgroup is working hard to get answers, just as the Snowmobile Advisory Workgroup continues asking questions about the snowmobile program. That work matters. Now It’s Your Turn Advocacy isn’t only MISORVA’s responsibility. It belongs to every one of us. Safety comes from the numbers. Join your local club. Show up at their spaghetti dinner even if
SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MISORVA.ORG
you hate spaghetti. Buy the raffle ticket. Attend the fundraiser. Volunteer for a workday. Ask if they need someone to pound signs, clear brush, help at an event, or simply bring lunch to the volunteers. Many clubs have fewer than 10 regular volunteers maintaining miles and miles of trail. Put that into perspective. If a club maintains 50 miles of trail, every mile must be inspected, brushed, signed, maintained, and prepared for riders. Club fundraisers have helped purchase trailers, other trail equipment, and vehicles, but much of it is accomplished on 2 feet. Think about walking just five miles while cutting brush, carrying signs and tools, checking intersections, and repairing problems along the way. Now multiply that by ten. That’s 50 miles. Then remember that when winter arrives, thousands of riders may travel those miles without ever knowing the names of the handful of people who made that ride possible. Membership Is More Than a Card Join your local club because trails need volunteers. Join MISORVA because your recreation needs a voice. Membership allows MISORVA representatives to walk into a legislator’s office and say we represent Michigan’s motorized recreational community. Every additional member strengthens that voice. Amendment 305 showed what can happen when recreational users organize, communicate, educate, and build relationships. But we are not done yet; the kettle of fish we are frying is still coming. That was step one. Fall is coming. Elections are coming. New leaders will eventually take their seats. New policies will be discussed. New budgets will be written. The decisions will happen whether recreational users participate or not. Do your research and vote!! It matters more than you think. So as that first colored leaf reminds us that another season is changing, perhaps it should remind us of something else: • Don’t just use the trails. Help protect them. • Don’t just question the decisions. Help shape them. • Join your club. Join MISORVA. Be part of the voice. Because if we’re not in the room, the decisions still happen. ■
ACSA and NOHVCC Matter to MISORVA Working Together to Protect Michigan’s Motorized Recreation Future
W
hen we talk about protecting snowmobiling and ORV recreation in Michigan, it is important to understand that MISORVA is not working alone. The challenges facing motorized recreation do not stop at Michigan’s borders. Federal legislation, land-management decisions, funding programs, environmental regulations, trail policies and changing public attitudes can all have an impact on our ability to ride. That is why our relationships with national Karyn organizations such as the American Council Robare of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) and the President National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Executive Committee Council (NOHVCC) are so important. MISORVA is a voice for Michigan’s motorized recreation community. ACSA and NOHVCC help extend that voice to the national level, provide expertise and resources, and connect Michigan with a much larger network of people working toward the same goal: keeping trails open, sustainable and available for future generations.
representatives together to meet with members of Congress and communicate directly about issues important to our sport.
ACSA: A National Voice for Snowmobiling ACSA was created to unite the snowmobile community and provide national leadership and advocacy for organized snowmobiling. It serves as a national coordinator and spokesperson for state snowmobile associations and clubs. One ofACSA’s most important roles is monitoring federal legislation and regulatory issues that can affect snowmobiling. ACSA works with federal agencies, legislators, industry partners and other organizations to advocate for fair treatment of snowmobiling, trail funding and continued access to public lands. That matters to Michigan because decisions made in Washington,D.C., can eventually affect what happens on a trail in the Upper Peninsula, northern Michigan or anywhere else in our state. ACSA also provides educational resources, promotes safe and responsible snowmobiling, increases public awareness of our sport and works to demonstrate that snowmobilers are responsible users and stewards of the land. ACSA’s annual Washington, D.C. Fly-In is another important example of national advocacy. It brings snowmobile
This expertise is extremely valuable to Michigan. ORV trails don’t simply happen. They require planning, proper design, maintenance, responsible use and cooperation among riders, clubs, landowners and government agencies. NOHVCC gives organizations like MISORVA access to knowledge and best practices developed through OHV projects around the country. NOHVCC also helps strengthen local and state organizations by providing information, training and support. It’s State Partner Program creates a twowaycommunication network between states and the national organization so that local issues can be connected with national resources and expertise.
NOHVCC: Building Better, Sustainable ORV Trails NOHVCC serves as imilar purpose for the off-highway vehicle community. It’s mission is to provide programs, information, education and practical tools to individuals, clubs, associations and land-management agencies to support a positive future for responsible OHV recreation. One of NOHVCC’s greatest strengths is it’s emphasis on trail planning, design, construction, maintenance and management. Through its Great Trails program and workshops, NOHVCC works with trail managers, land agencies, volunteers, engineers, contractors and OHV organizations to develop sustainable trail systems. Its training focuses on creating trails that provide a quality riding experience while addressing maintenance, environmental and landmanagement concerns.
Why Does MISORVA Rely on These Organizations? MISORVA’s job is to represent Michigan. ACSA and NOHVCC help make sure Michigan is not standing alone. MISORVA monitors legislation and regulations in Lansing continued on page 26 MISORVA.ORG
• SEPTEMBER • 2026
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WORKING TOGETHER continued from page 25
Hop on with MISORVA Your advocate for Michigan’s Snowmobile and ORV adventures!
Help protect trails, fuel the fun and enjoy exclusive member perks along the way! MISORVA has a presence on the Snowmobile Advisory Work group (SAW) and ORV Advisory Work group (ORVAW) State Board that makes recommendations on our trail program. Member Benefits Include:
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and Washington, D.C., works with agencies and partners, and advocates for Michigan’s motorized recreation community. MISORVA’s own mission includes protecting and enhancing Michigan’s motorized trail system and promoting responsible snowmobile and ORV recreation. But there are limits to what one state organization can accomplish by itself. When Michigan joins its voice with other states and national organizations, our message becomes stronger. ACSA gives MISORVA a national snowmobile network. • NOHVCC gives MISORVA a national OHV network and technical resource. Together, these relationships provide access to: • National advocacy and legislative information • Federal policy and regulatory updates • Trail-planning expertise and best management practices • Educational and safety resources • Connections with other state organizations • Relationships with federal and state land-management agencies • Training opportunities for volunteers and trail advocates • Information about funding and trailrelated programs • A stronger, unified voice for motorized recreation We Don’t Have to Reinvent the Wheel One of the biggest advantages of working with national organizations is the ability to learn from what is happening in other states. If another state encounters a trail-access issue,land-use conflict,environmental concern or regulatory challenge, we can learn from their experience instead of starting from scratch. Likewise, when Michigan develops successful programs or finds effective solutions, those lessons can be shared with the broader motorized recreation community. That is what cooperation is supposed to accomplish.
26 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MISORVA.ORG
One Voice Is Stronger Than Many Separate Voices Snowmobilers and ORV enthusiasts sometimes think of themselves as separate groups. In reality, many of the challenges we face are remarkably similar. • We need access to trails. • We need responsible land management. • We need positive relationships with landowners and government agencies. • We need volunteers. • We need funding. • We need to educate the public. • And we need to make sure lawmakers understand the economic, recreational and community value of motorized recreation. MISORVA’s involvement with organizations such as ACSA and NOHVCC helps connect Michigan’s voice to a much larger movement. The Bottom Line ACSA and NOHVCC are not replacements for MISORVA, and MISORVA is not a replacement for our clubs and individual riders. We need all three levels. Our local clubs know their communities and trails. MISORVA represents Michigan’s motorized recreation community at the state level. ACSA and NOHVCC provide national connections, advocacy, expertise, education and resources. That structure gives us something much more powerful than any organization could achieve alone. Local knowledge. State leadership. National strength. That is why MISORVA relies on partnerships with organizations such as ACSA and NOHVCC. Protecting our trails and preserving our sports for the next generation requires more than riding. It requires organization, education, cooperation and advocacy. The future of snowmobiling and ORV recreation will depend on how well we work together today. When we stand together, our voice carries farther—and our trails have a better chance of being there for the riders who come after us. ■
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Behind the Scenes
Caroline Brandow and the I-500 Race Committee
I-500 | The Finish Line BY RIC FEDERAU CONTRIBUTING WRITER PHOTOGRAPHY BY PPP STUDIO
T
here is so much to share when it comes to the International 500 Snowmobile Race. After more than five decades of racing, the I-500 has become a never-ending story filled with fascinating people, unforgettable moments and countless behind-thescenes stories. The best part is that there are always new perspectives to explore without repeating what has already been told. This time, we are taking a look at the I-500 from a volunteer’s perspective, focusing on an important part of the race organization: the Race Committee. The I-500 Race Committee oversees the race itself, including officiating, the track, competitors, safety and many of the other details that make race week possible. At the top of the committee is the Race Director. As with virtually every position at the I-500, there is always a need for a backup—a Plan B, if you will. The responsibilities of that position go far beyond what most people might imagine. This role encompasses nearly every aspect of the race and everything happening around the track. This is not a position that just anyone can step into. The individual must demonstrate a strong commitment to the event, possess extensive racing knowledge, be safety-conscious, earn the respect of fellow volunteers and participants, and be capable of negotiating, solving problems and making fair decisions. At the same time, they must be strong enough to uphold and enforce the rules and guidelines of the event. The position also requires extensive training and certification. In other words, it is a tremendous responsibility and commitment all rolled into one. With that in mind, I’d like to introduce you to the I-500’s Plan B—the backup for the Race Committee and Race Director. ENTER CAROLINE BRANDOW Because the I-500 is an international event, it is especially fitting that Caroline is from Canada. Her involvement adds another important piece to the international nature of the race. It is also exciting to see a woman taking on such an important role within the organization. continued on page 32
MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2026
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I-500 | The Finish Line
continued from page 31
Hopefully, Caroline’s involvement will inspire more women to become involved in snowmobile racing and volunteering. This sport is certainly not just for men, and the I-500 is proud to have Caroline as part of its international family. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Caroline and ask her about her involvement with the I-500. Here is our conversation GETTING STARTED WITH THE I-500 Ric: Caroline, thank you for taking the time to discuss your involvement with us here at the I-500. I’d like to start by asking you: How long have you been a volunteer for the I-500? Caroline: I started volunteering during the winter of the 2016-2017 race season. That was the first race I helped with as a volunteer. Ric: When you first volunteered, what were your actual duties? Did you work with the Race Committee or other race-related activities? Caroline: When I first started volunteering, I helped with the watering trucks, plowing, hanging boards, putting out hay bales and performing some equipment maintenance. Ric: Obviously, you’ve become a valued volunteer with the I-500. How did you get started, and who got you involved? Caroline: I was driving back to Canada one night on I-75 when I saw the track lit up and the watering trucks on
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I-500 | The Finish Line continued from page 32
it. I had previously met Race Director Billy Kreiderman at a local stock car race, and I knew he was involved with the I-500. I messaged him on social media and asked if he needed help and if I could get involved. He said absolutely! I went up to the watering shack one night with the rest of the guys who were watering the track, and I got a crash course in how to build an oval ice track. TAKING ON A GREATER RESPONSIBILITY Ric: You’re currently working with the I-500 Race Committee. What is your title, and what are some of your basic duties? Your position has numerous responsibilities. What do you feel is your most important priority? Caroline: During race week, my primary role and priority is working
as a Tech Inspector. I pre-tech sleds for the Vintage and Enduro classes, ensuring that both the machines and riders’ equipment meet all safety requirements. My most important priority is the safety of the riders, volunteers and spectators. This includes checking helmets for proper ratings and expiration dates, required orange jackets, TechVest equipment, helmet lights and other required safety equipment. I also make sure barriers and people are in their proper places. Off the track, I help with the volunteer meeting and the drivers’ meeting. I also flag the main race on Saturday from the backstretch. In addition, I help prepare the pit area by laying out and planning the pit stalls before parking begins. Generally speaking, I help wherever I’m needed.
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the actual sleds available allows us to become familiar with the differences between the classes and better understand what to look for during inspections and competition. The training also includes fuel-testing procedures and covers new rules, equipment, technology and developments within the industry. It is a great opportunity to refresh our knowledge, stay current and ensure that we are properly prepared for the upcoming racing season. REPRESENTING CANADA Ric: Representing Canada and being involved in this outstanding project, what does participation in this event mean to you and other Canadians? Caroline: I could write a book on this topic. As a Canadian, I am incredibly proud to be involved in such a great event, especially because, at its heart, it is about giving back to the community on both sides of the border. Being part of something that brings together so many people who generously give their time and energy makes the experience very meaningful to me. Over the years, it has also become a real family affair. My daughter is involved, as are her dad and her stepdad, and she absolutely loves volunteering and all the opportunities that being involved with the I-500 Pageant has given her. She also helps trackside wherever she’s needed. You will find her painting and hanging corner boards, cleaning the media building, helping in the watering shack, assisting with parking trailers and taking on many of the behind-the-scenes jobs that help make this event successful. Watching her develop the same passion for volunteering and giving back makes my involvement even more special. There is also a tremendous sense of pride in the dedication of the Canadian volunteers. Many make the trip almost every day during race week, giving their time to help with everything from the main event to time trials and Vintage racing. It takes a lot of people working together to make an event like this happen. For me, participating represents the community spirit that Canadians are known for—showing up, lending a hand and being part of something bigger than ourselves. I am proud that my daughter and I can contribute together, and even prouder to be part of the dedicated group of Canadian volunteers who help make this event so successful and special. THE I-500 SUMMER TOUR Ric: The I-500 project now travels during the summer months, visiting auto-racing venues to promote oval ice continued on page 36
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endurance racing throughout Michigan and into Canada. The main objective is to bridge summer and winter racing, giving fans high-octane excitement on a year-round basis. Recent I-500 social media analytics indicate positive growth in awareness and interest in the I-500 project and the sport of oval ice endurance racing. How do you feel the I-500 Summer Tour has impacted oval ice racing and the I-500 itself? Caroline: I think the Summer Tour is a great way to keep the I-500 front and center after the ice melts. Race fans are race fans and love talking about racing. I help out with displays we have on the Canadian side, and most recently we were set up at the Gold Rush Nationals drag race event in Chapleau, Ontario. We had the Ferky race sled there on display. It was great talking to some of the asphalt drag racers and continued on page 38
tween the Soo and Kinross has improved greatly. They have fixed most of the problems in that area. As you may recall, there
Thanks again guys. As always… What Martin said, “Good food. Good fun. Good comradery.”
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I-500 | The Finish Line continued from page 36
comparing the similarities and differences between the sleds. We introduced the I-500 race to some people who knew nothing about it and also chatted with some longtime race fans. I think keeping the excitement going all year round is a great thing for the sport and the I-500 itself. A COMMITMENT FOR THE LONG HAUL Ric: You obviously have a lot of knowledge and support from the I-500 racing community. How long do you anticipate remaining involved? Caroline: I feel I’ll be involved with the I-500 race in some capacity for as long as I’m physically able to. THANK YOU, CAROLINE Ric: Caroline, on behalf of so many I-500 and oval ice racing fans, thank you for your commitment and dedication to the I-500 project and the sport itself. I certainly appreciate you taking the time to share your involvement and passion for the project. The I-500 Board of Directors is proud to have the participation of such outstanding volunteers from both countries. To learn how you can become an I-500 volunteer or event sponsor, visit I-500.com. Until we take another lap around the famous I-500-mile oval, thank you for joining me for this article and interview. You can help
the I-500 and the sport of oval ice endurance racing by directing others to the I-500 social media sites. Share the excitement, spread the word and help take this sport and event to a whole new level of social media excitement. Then join us on the first Saturday of February each year as we host one of the world’s most prestigious professional snowmobile racing events. “Racing doesn’t stop when the leaves fall... It’s all left turns from here.” •
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CURTIS CURTIS 10 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER - September, 2019
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HEARST.qxp_HEARST 8/26/19 11:4211:42 AM AM Page 10 10 HEARST.qxp_HEARST 8/26/19 Page
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orthern Power Race Park is once again taking their winter to the next level. Each year, they seem to find a way to improve the experience. As they begin their fourth season of operation, they are set for the biggest season yet. Earlier this summer, they announced the start of the big winter ahead. For the first time in Snowcross history, there will be a Snocross World Cup. Starting in the 2026-2027 Snocross season, a four-race series between the United States and Sweden. While the FIM has hosted a World Championship over the years, this newly created Cup will look to host the biggest names in international Snowcross. The first two legs of the Cup will be held at Northern Power Race Park on December 18 and 19. The final two rounds of the series will be contested in Sweden in May. However, the dates and location for the final two rounds have not been announced. The event will feature four pro-class divisions: Pro, Pro Lite, Pro-Am Women, and Pro Veteran, all competing for the cup. Unlike the Border Cup, held each year at NPRP, this will not be a team event with countries facing each other; this will be solo riders contending to win their division. The series is committed to providing a payout to every division after every round. The winner of Pro Open and Pro Women’s class will claim $2,000 per round, while second will have $1,000 and third will earn $500. The champion
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after four rounds will also earn a $2,000 bonus. In the Pro Lite and Pro Vet divisions, the winner will earn a $1,500 payout, while second will get $750 and third place $375. If you are to claim the championship, you will earn a bonus of $1,500. According to the Snowcross World Cup Press Release on July 22, “This initiative provides racers with added financial confidence throughout the championship while reinforcing the Snowcross World Cup’s mission of creating a professional, sustainable, and rewarding environment for competitors at every level.” The event will be an almost full-week event, with the track open for practice on Tuesday and Wednesday, a media day on Thursday, and racing on Friday and Saturday. The first-of-its-kind event aims to bring some of the best talent in the world to a track that is quickly becoming a well-known facility across the racing community. “We were incredibly honored to be asked to be a part of the Snowcross World Cup. To us, this is a testament to the hard work and dedication that has gone into building and growing NPRP. We are continually working to improve our facility and the sport. We are extremely proud to have the
44 | SEPTEMBER • 2026 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
opportunity to help bring a true international World Cup to North America. This is a huge milestone for Snowcross, and we couldn’t be more excited to play a part in it,” said Rene Maier, Director of Northern Power Race Park. The goal is to produce the greatest races we have ever seen and to give the greatest riders a chance to race for one title. Instead of racing their own series and trying to compare the different series. As is the custom for Snocross fans, the timed format will be used for practice, qualifying, heats, LCQ’s and Finals. “ The Snowcross World Cup is the culmination of years of work, to finally bring all these amazing athletes together, in locations that are extremely popular with snowmobiling. With logistics support to ensure that every race has the ability to compete on the snowmobile they are most comfortable with, “ per SWC press release. While many riders are used to racing on Polaris, Arctic Cat, and Ski-Doo, adding riders from Sweden or Norway could introduce fans in America to the Lynx race snowmobile. That would allow NPRP to be the first track the brand would compete on in an event.
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While there are many storylines surrounding the event, there are also many ways to follow the action. “A cornerstone of the 2026-2027 season will be comprehensive live streaming coverage of all four championship rounds. Every race will be broadcast live to a global audience, with commentary available in multiple languages, allowing fans worldwide to follow the action as it unfolds. The expanded digital broadcast platform reflects the Snowcross World Cup’s commitment to increasing the global visibility for the sport and providing greater value to athletes, teams, partners and sponsors,” according to WSC. If you are interested in entering the event, registration officially opened August 1 on the NPRP website. On the page, you can also find all event information. If you would like to stay up to date with details as they emerge this fall and early winter, you can stay up to date by following Northern Power Race Park on social media or, as it gets closer to the event, following the Snowcross World Cup on Facebook and Instagram. •
MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • SEPTEMBER • 2026
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