Michigan Snowmobiler & ORV - November 2024

NOVEMBER 2024 FOR HOME DELIVERY CALL 810-348-1325

under the helmet

What’s Inside • I-500: It’s Official Tween season is here

• Elliot Lake, Ontario Visit us at www.michsnowmag.com

mich.snow.orv.mag Michigan Snowmobiler + ORV Magazine

A hidden gem

• Border Cup Battle • Vintage Sled: Ski Doo Bullet

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What’s Inside

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18

32

4

EDITOR’S LETTER

38

BORDER CUP BATTLE

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SNOWMOBILE HURON MOUNTAIN TERRITORY

46

VINTAGE SLED: SKI DOO BULLET

14

THE KNTEKA/BLACK BEAR RESORT

18

UNDER THE HELMET: LET’S GO RACING

26

I-500:IT’S OFFICIAL

32

ELLIOT LAKE, ONTARIO

ON THE COVER: Let’s Go Racing is beyond excited for the 2025 season.

Keep an eye out for the new sled.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Brian Caswell/Speedshot Photography

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Gaylord...................... 5 Rexton....................... 5 Hubbel....................... 5 East Jordan........11-12 Marquette................ 12 Calumet................... 12 White Pine............... 15 Newberry................. 15 Manistique............... 17 Lake Gogebic.......... 17 Hulbert..................... 17 White Lake............... 23 Greenland................ 24 McMillan.................. 24 Indian River.............. 26 Midland.................... 26 Paradise.................. 26 Grayling................... 30 Grand Traverse........ 31 Deer Park................. 36 Cadillac.................... 37 Sault Ste Marie........ 41 Naubinway............... 41 New Lothrop............ 41 Real Estate.............. 42 Seney....................... 42 Houghton Lake........ 43 Curtis....................... 43 Copper Harbor........ 44 Grand Marais........... 45 Epoufette................. 45

Michigan Snowmobiler + ORV Magazine.

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • NOVEMBER • 2024

| 3

from the editor

A

t Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV, we have been getting out and enjoying the beauty of fall as much as possible this year.

The color has been nearly perfect this last week in our home area, making my work commute incredibly enjoyable. I’ve caught myself pretending I’m driving the SxS on trails instead of the normal country roads out to the Thumb. Honestly, on most days my commute is an

easy one. I’m fortunate to have a country drive instead of a city commute.

On our social media pages (see addresses on the front cover), you’ll have to check out Tracks USA. You will find a picture of a CanAm Outlandder outfitted with tracks and it looks so cool.

Don’t let the picture fool you, they outfit all types of vehicles with tracks… So, if you’re interested in this alternative off-road fun, reach out to them at www.TracksUSA. com. What a great way to

extend the fun in a four season state like Michigan!

Our goal each month is to highlight local events and all sorts of creative ways to get to each one. Lots of living takes place between each issue, we want to make sure to give our readers a wide variety of ideas and motivation to get out and make great memories at all levels of budgets. Please always feel free to reach out to us with any of your favorite local events, trails, tracks or off road vehicle. We love to write about our readers.

As we close out this

issue, all of us at Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV are thinking of all those who make this publiication what it is – Thank You. We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the Snow Show.

As always, please remember to keep our laborers, veterans and first responders in your thoughts and prayers.

Be safe and enjoy the tracks and trails until next month.

As alway, you can reach out to us at Michigan Snowmobiler at scottd@faragoassoc.com

PUBLISHER | Peter Farago

VOLUME 58 - NUMBER 3 Founded September 1967

EXECUTIVE OFFICES, ADVERTISING, EDITORIAL AND CIRCULATION OFFICES:

PO Box 171 New Lothrop MI 48460 810.348.1325 scottd@faragoassoc.com www.michsnowmag.com

THE MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER+ORV is an independent publication endorsing the goals of MISORVA, and other associations. Opinions expressed herein are the opinions of the editor or contributing writers, and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of the MSA, or their board of directors. Reproduction of material in whole or part is prohibited, unless authorized in writing by the publisher - all rights reserved.

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER and ORV INC., The Michigan Snowmobiler is published 10 times per year, September through February and May through August.

4 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

EDITOR | Ann Drzewiecki ADVERTISING MANAGER | Scott Drzewiecki CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR | Michelle Sheridan SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR | Chelsie Dzbanski Fontenelle WEB MANAGER | Kelly Kosek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | Ric Federau, Patrick Grzebinski ,Terri Norey, Mike Olmstead, Dominic Santina, Jay Haven, Joyce Wiswell SALES | Scott Drzewiecki, Peter Farago DESIGNERS | Kelly Kosek, Kaitlyn Schoen

Call or go online for your subscription today 810.348.1325 | michsnowmag.com

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| 5

off the beaten path

SNOWMOBILE HURON MOUNTAIN TERRITORY

Upper Michigan’s Marquette county this winter

BY JAY HAVEN UPPER MICHIGAN TRAILBLAZER

C

reaking ice sheets greet you at the wild, windwhipped shorelines of Lake Superior, sweeping from Baraga’s Keweenaw Bay to Munising’s gleaming Pictured Rocks. A snowmobile trail runs parallel here to the backbone of Upper Michigan in winter running about 150 miles. A spiderweb of trails spins off below covering a significant, snowmobileable footprint centered around Marquette, Michigan.

Marquette County is the largest county in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and is home to its most populous city, Marquette. The region is a lively social hub of and

6 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

offers sledders a great time riding between towns and taking in the scenery. It’s all yours this winter.

YOU SHOULD “MARQ” IT ON YOUR MAP Marquette County’s landscape is striking, with mild elevation leading down to an uninterrupted 83 miles of Lake Superior shoreline. The area is located centrally on the middle north edge of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It’s about four hours north of Green Bay and about a seven hour drive from Detroit. The area gives continued on page 8

TRAVEL MARQUETTE

off the beaten path

Snowmobile on up to the Thunder Bay Inn. continued from page 6

TRAVEL MARQUETTE

Marquette County offers thrilling corridors to ride.

8 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

you the “Up North” feel but has greater cell coverage and more amenities in towns than other areas above the Mackinac Bridge. Iron ore mining history, and today’s shipping industry sticks out in Marquette, which has two large ore docks you can see when driving around town. One is at Ellwood A Matson Lower Harbor Park (not in use) and the other active shipping dock stands tall above Presque Isle Park in the city of Marquette.

As you venture deeper into Marquette County, exploration options expand with each mile. From the rugged north edge in Big Bay to the bustling social hubs of Ishpeming and Negaunee – each stop offers a slice of adventure waiting to be discovered. The air crackles with excitement as snowmobilers glide from one charming community to another, with winding trails that promise both thrilling rides and continued on page 10

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off the beaten path

continued from page 8

Photos of an old fishing tournament taking place on Big Bay.

10 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

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cozy lodges beckoning you to take a seat after a day in the snow.

BIG BAY: THE MUST-DO SNOWMOBILE EXPERIENCE If you’re looking for a day’s worth of snowmobiling, you need to hit Big Bay. This small unincorporated community has a population of less than 500 and offers a great ride on your sled. It’s about a 100 mile round trip from either Ishpheming or Marquette to Big Bay. Don Britton, President of the Michigan Upper Peninsula Snowmobile Association says there’s a lot to see by snowmobile in Marquette County.

“Trail 14 or Trail 5 – either one takes you to Big Bay,” said Britton. “14 comes in through Marquette Township and up to Big Bay and Trail 5 you have to go west up Ishpeming and up to Big Bay. It’s just a little community on a dead end road 27 miles northwest of Marquette. It’s right on Lake Superior. There’s lots of wilderness between there and L’Anse and south to Republic and of course Gwinn is a connection to loop around all these communities.”

A quick hike (or snowshoe) is just 3 miles south of Big Bay. Dial in a GPS for Thomas Rock and head in on your sled. It is roughly 15-20 minutes to the top, and you can see panoramic views of Lake Superior and inbetween — the landlocked Lake Independence. Heading down, be sure to stop and fill up at Cram’s General Store.

It’s home to the Hungry Hollow Cafe, serving a hot breakfast and lunch for the ready snowmobiler. continued on page 12

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Look for frozen waterfalls on the way to Big Bay. continued from page 10

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12 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

A KILLER GOOD TIME True crime fans and muder history buffs should keep going up the street for dinner to the Thunder Bay Inn. It has an iconic history that ties this hidden gem to Hollywood and comes with some shock value. It was built as a store for local logging companies in 1909, but was would go on to be featured in a movie.

“After an actual local murder in 1950, a trial and a book written by John Volker, the defense attorney, Hollywood bought the rights to produce a movie called Anatomy of Murder, based on the book. The movie featured such stars as Jimmie Stewart, Lee Remick, George C Scott, and Cathy Lee Crosby and was nominated for seven academy awards in 1959. The current restaurant was created by Hollywood as a set in the movie to depict the local bar that the murder occurred in and continues to resonate with the story to this day.” - Thunder Bay Inn, Big Bay. Another stop for your night out in Big Bay should be the Lumberjack Tavern, where the famous murder occured. Unironically, it’s still open and is another great place for casual drinks and bar food. Don’t worry about the lore – locals will vouch it’s a good stop.

MORE SPOTS TO SEE & SOCIAL HUBS Mount Marquette is a highlight of Marquette County’s snowmobile offerings. The 12,000 foot peak is reached by snowmobile and gives you great views of the city of Marquette and Lake Superior. It’s a striking hill and has a viewing and parking area for snowmobiles at the top. On the other side is Marquette Mountain Ski Resort, with food and lodging at the bottom of the hill.

You can head down south to Gwinn for more riding opportunities and loops after you come out on the other side of Mount Marquettte. Locals recommend eating at the UP North Lodge in Gwinn if you’re heading south.

“Marquette doesn’t allow snowmobiles in town, said Dritton. “The surrounding areas like Gwinn, Ishpeming,

Cram’s is a cozy place to stop, check out the vintage front entry.

CRAM’S GENERAL STORE

GROSS Negaunee, Republic, Big Bay Chatham, and over toward Munising – all these comuinities welcome snowmobiles.”

For a good look at Mother Superior, Trail 18 can take you all the way from Marquette to Munising along the shore – about 50 miles. Depending on ice cover, you may still see shipping freighters chugging through frigid waters.

WHERE TO STAY: Jasper Ridge Inn (Ishpeming): Looking for a place to sleep central in Marquette County? Stay away from the crowds in Ishpeming at the Jasper Ridge Inn. It’s within walking distance to the Jasper Ridge Brewery & Restaurant and close to fuel. It has plenty of parking for trailers and snowmobiles.

Thunder Bay Inn (Big Bay): The Thunder Bay Inn is a great place to stay, offering the all-in-one comforts of food and lodging. You’ll have wifi, and it will feel quieter than staying in the cities. In Big Bay, you can also ride west toward L’Anse and Baraga for futher riding.

Model Towne Inn (Gwinn): This small-scale lodging option is south of Marquette in Gwinn. It has direct trail access and plants you futher south, allowing for different day tip options to the east and south. It’s also close to the Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport.

HEAD UP THIS WINTER After a day filled with exhilarating rides and stunning views, Marquette County offers ample opportunities to unwind and relish the local flavor. Grab a warm drink (or cold!) and share stories of your adventures with fellow snowmobilers at one of the cozy local taverns, or take a stroll through downtown Marquette to explore its unique shops and eateries. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the sport, the diverse trails and inviting communities ensure a memorable experience. Make sure to download a map ahead of your visit in case you lose cell signal or your phone dies. •

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he Konteka, a one-of-a-kind establishment located in the historic mining community of White Pine, MI, continues to create memories for all that pass through its doors. The Konteka Black Bear Resort: Lounge, Lanes, Restaurant, Gas Station & Motel is run by the Moen’s and their superb staff. The memories and the passion that the Moen’s have brought to the Konteka since 2006, not only for creating but for hosting such an atmosphere in which families have shared joy, tears, love, excitement and more. Under the Moen’s tenure, numerous community projects and organizations have benefited – a family that enjoys helping all with whichever random

situation may arise if they ar able.

The Konteka consists of an 8-lane bowling alley featuring automatic scoring and disco lights, if the

14 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

mood is right, on their once/year tested, verified and sanctioned original wood lanes. It’s a tough alley to strike out the “300” game,

WHITE PINE Oct.HEARST.qxp_HEARST 9/20/19 11:21 AM Page 14

KONTEKA

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Restaurant & Lounge • Gift Shop but its perfect for Trail Permits • Bowling Lane • Gas birthday and wedding 14 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER October, 2019 parties, a night out Located right on the snowmobile trail with the guys or gals, a and just a few miles away from Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains in White Pine, MI double-date night with the fellow prom goers or www.thekonteka.com 906-885-5170 even just a great place to crank the tunes and hit the gutters every time with a smile on yours and your group’s faces.

The annual Bowling for the Cure is held in CHOKO AND THE MICHIGAN S the spring, in which MAGAZINE DRAWING - EN over $60,000 has been Men’s & Ladies Choko - 2-piece raised for various cancer charities since its dawn!

Name___________________ The Konteka is a huge Mailing address___________ complex that is fantastic City________________Zip__ for all seaons of travel.

Phone___________________ Featuring sixteen email____________________ motel rooms with new queen beds that are all inter-connected To qualify to win just ONLY ONE ENTRY the with Suit bowling alley, was Mail or F The womens Snowmobile winner complete the information on this page. restaurant, MI. bar, and gas Michigan Snowm Winners are responsible for any Kim Fredenberg of Wayland, station – meaning if you P.O. Bo shipping or transportation costs and no want to waitour fivetime East Jordan, enjoy taking I would like to thank don’t cash equivalent will be given. minutes for the weather Fax 231-5 the trail taking in you for the Choko to on Deadline for entries January 11th 2020 change outside, the sights andand visiting jacket and bibs. It just stay in doors Hotels | Restaurants | Bars waterfalls and looks great! I look for- make your way to thelight-

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ward to using it on the snowmobile rides next season.

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.

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The Konteka

continued from page 15

area of your choosing. The restaurant has a seating capacity for 300 people and is known for having its soup and salad bar up every day!

With the choices of full menu from breakfast items to Prime Rib and Walleye Dinners.

The Konteka and its staff is not only known for its fantastic food, but for their service with a smile. We want you to be happy. We want you to live the dream We try to the best to make it another great day for everyone Whether you’re traveling up on motorcycle, RV, bicycle, snowmobile, car, plane, or what have you, the Moen’s along with their staff, are prepared to help make more memories for whomever walks through their doors in White Pine. •

16 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

WAYS the season to work on the snowmobile

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Under the Helmet brought to you by

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Todd Hoffmeyer Owner Team #10 “Let’s Go Racing” Who got you into snowmobiling and when? And what was their influence on you regarding the sport?

My Dad Wayne Hoffmeyer, he’s the one to blame for this addiction I have with snowmobiles. He says I was conceived on the seat of a 1970 Skidoo Olympic up in the grayling area one February night during a full moon. So, I guess the moon, stars, sun and solar system was in line for me that night maybe that has something to do with my Polaris love affair also. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, Polaris can help you find your way and I feel with Ice Oval Racing and the International I-500 Snowmobile Race is the way for me, its where my axys meets and I’m my happiest.

Dad was always bringing snowmobiles home for us to tinker with in the garage. I think we had one from each manufacture ever created, well not that many I think there were over 250+ manufactures at one point but some names like Ski Roule, Fox Trac, Evinrude, Rupp, Chaparral, Kawasaki, OMC, Boa-Ski, AMF, Massey Fergusen, John Deere, Moto-Ski all come to mind. We did have an artic cat once. Dad found it in the ditch upside down one day coming back from Houghton Lake, from a distance he said it looked like a pickle lying there. I never understood that one but that’s how it went. continued on page 20

18 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

under the helmet Let’s Go Racing continued from page 18

WHEN DID YOU START RACING? I had an older brother Troy, and this may sound familiar to some but we had a rivalry and we raced every time we got on the snowmobiles like Cole and Rowdy in the movie Days of Thunder. There was a horse trac down the trail from my grandparents and that’s where I first started going left. Troy always cheated and he was dirty so he never let me win.

Dad would take us to local racing hot spots in the winters like The White Inn, White Lake, MI; Frigates Inn, Walled Lake, MI: The Limberlost, Houghton Lake, MI; Snowmobile Hall of Famers like Todd Sierra and all his super cool buddies would be there testing and tuning as they said. I mean these guys were the coolest of the cool man, The baddest of the bad boys like Peter Fonda in

Easy Rider cool man and we were the kids drooling off to the side just waiting for our chance to throttle that fast and loud ass “Cut-Down” down a track was a dream man.

We started drag racing with MSDRA when I was 15-16. We didn’t have the money to win but who cared, we were doing it man. Whatever it took to get the money I would do. Cut grass, landscape, drag brush for my uncle Gary’s tree service,

make and deliver pizzas for Mr. Cools. I would take my money to Recreational Leisure and buy the parts we needed and just get after it. Our shop was like a shed with a sliding door. We stunk like Kerosene and Troys Winston Lights and loved every minute of it.

Garage to trailer to track we called it. I was the driver, Dad, Troy and Fast Eddie helped wrench and cool her down. It was awesome “Cyborg Racing” 4-Life. So Rad! continued on page 22

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January 18-19, 2025 WCDC World Championship WCDC, Eagle River WI

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 Let’s Go Racing

Andy DRIVER Shoemaker Who got you into snowmobiling and when: What was there influence on your regard to the sport?

My Dad Tom Shoemaker got me into snowmobilie rcing when was atleast 4yrs old. he raced through the 80’ and 90’s, He went to be crew chief for millennium motorsports the #42 team from mid to late 90’s through 2021 and that when i started racing for him.

I was always fascinated with snowmobile racing for as long as I can remember because I watched him for so many years and that’s what made me what to.

continued from page 20

What is your career goal as an owner?

I’d like to run a successful race team.

I believe it’s a realistic goal to Win the International I-500 Snowmobile Race, M.I.R.A. points Championship and Eagle River World Championship.

Luck and intuition aren’t enough. It’s no secret that hiring the best will lead to championships. I have an action plan to achieve this and it’s in motion.

What were the driving factors to start the race team?

Driving factor #1 “Eagle River” I went to Eagle River World Championships in 2020 because the trails were bad in the Yoop and I’d never been, so a bucket list check off for me. I watched the Pro-Enduros and got the bug.

I convinced myself right there I was going to buy one of these snowmobiles and go run the I-500 before I got too old. After the race I went to the trailers and started talking to teams about buying a sled. I hooked up with Tom Morgan with Hoos Racing #67 and he sold me a sled after the season.

Driving Factor #2 “Can’t Back out Now” Now I own a super-fast Polaris pro-mod ice oval snowmobile and sold myself on this “I’m Going to Race the I-500 dream” I can’t back out now. At this point I don’t own a race team, just a snowmobile that isn’t even set up for the I-500.

There are two ways to become a driver in the I-500. 1. Convince a team owner to let a 49 year old guy who has never raced ice oval before to teach him how to do it or start your own and that’s how Team #10.

“Let’s Go Racing” got started.

Proudest moment on the track?

1. Getting to drive a race sled on the one-mile Ice oval during rookie practice.

2. When the race director approved me to run the race.

3. Having my team qualify for the race.

4. When the team overcame time and time again and worked together.

5. Driving in the race.

6. Placing 14th in our first I-500 Snowmobile Race.

When did you start racing and proudest achievment so far?

I started racing in mira in 2011.

My proudest achievement so far is winning Pro-Lite at Eagle River World Championship Derby Track in 2022.

Top 3 Pro-Enduro finish at Eagle River World Championship Derby Track 2023.

Top 3 M.I.R.A. Finish at Kenworth 250 in Lincoln, MI. 1st Place Finish in 2024 kokosing-Alberici-Traylor Old Mod Modified Shootout Sault, St. Marie, MI. What are your goals?

Win the mira pro enduro championship and an elite race like the I-500 and the Eagle River World Championship Race.

When did you become apart of this race team?

Todd started reaching out to me the day after last years I-500. He saw I wasn’t in the race that year and wanted to know how a guy like him could get a driver like me on his team. I really didn’t have an answer but he kept at it.

I saw he started building the New Sled for the upcoming race and cut a deal with Brent Vermeesch at WV Racing #44 team to help him do that. Todd really wants to win this race and he’s putting forth his best efforts to provide us drivers the equipomnt and team we need to be a podium winner. continued on page 24

22 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

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under the helmet | Let’s Go Racing continued from page 22

Chooch Jake Booth DRIVER Gerow DRIVER Who introduced racing to me? What influence did they have on me?

Chooch enters the racing arena as a “jackman” for slovenly driver Terry Cheveaux and accidentally gets his big break behind the bars when Cheveaux makes an unscheduled pit stop during a race to gorge on a chicken sandwich. Chooch jumps into the sled and so begins the ballad of Chooch Booth.

When did you begin racing and what is your proudest achievement so far?

I began racing in MIRA in the mid-2000s. My greatest accomplishment to date is securing a victory in the TC 250 and achieving multiple top 10 finishes at the I-500 racetrack.

W hat are your goals?

Win the Big One rite now!!

When did you become apart of this race team?

This will be Todd and I’s 4th I-500 together and what a great time we have had. Who know what the future has in store. Maybe he’ll move up to Cedarville and will go into business together and do this race every year till we die.

Who introduced racing to me?

What influence did they have on me?

I was introduced to the ice oval racing world since birth. My grandfather Larry Williams and Bob Benner were building race sled in the garage for as far back as I can remember. In 1995 I started racing on a 120cc kitty cat given to me by grandpa Larry. It was at that point when I fell in love with the sport of snowmobile racing. Grandpa Larry has pushed me and taught me everything I know about riding a snowmobile as well as working on them. Grandpa still to this day is with me at every race and telling me to hold the throttle deeper into the turn.

When did racing begin and what are some proud achievements in racing?

My racing career started in the winter of 1995. I started racing my 120cc kitty cat around the yard and at every Mira racing event. I would even race in the summer time on wood chips.

As I got older I would work my way through the ranks running the JR program and winning a championship in 2006. I was racing a 2001 Polaris pro x 440 fan. I then got into the f500 class and ran the sprint classes as well as the mini enduros. I won championships in both them classes as well. In 2012 I started racing pro

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enduro and have been chasing a championship ever since. I have had some memorable races throughout my career. A few that mean a lot to me are the 3 times standing on the podium at eagle river world championships.(one 1st and 2 3rds).

Taking top 5 in the I-500 was also an achievement I’ll never forget.

What are my career aspirations?

I’m sure my aspirations are the same as any true racer. I want to win every race that I enter.

How did I join this team?

I received a phone call from a guy named Todd Hoffmeyer the day after the I-500. He was already trying to get a game plan together for the following years I-500. He had asked me to ride for him then but I wanted to keep my options open for a while. Todd had reached out multiple times and at even call or text I could just feel the passion that he had for the sport and how bad he wanted to win the I-500. I finally agreed to ride for him because he is a great guy that is building a machine with no corners are being cut. Going the extra mile to make sure our team will be as sound as the machine. Overall his enthusiasm and heart for racing is what makes me want to ride for team 10 at the I-500.

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I-500

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www.owossospeedway.com

It's Official

Tween season is here

BY RIC FEDERAU CONTRIBUTING WRITER

t’s official. The transition between summer racing activity and winter racing activity has commenced. We’re in a period known to race fans as the “tween” season. Throughout the summer and late into the Fall, you could feel the pulse of the world’s most prestigious snowmobile endurance race known as the “granddaddy” of them all. Of course, I’m speaking of the International 500 snowmobile race hosted at Sault Saint Marie, Michigan the first Saturday in February each year.

If you’re into snowmobiling and snowmobile racing or if you’re just a race junkie in general, we want to share information about the I-500 that hopefully gets your blood pressure pumping and maybe get you close to experiencing “SRCA” aka: snowmobile racing cardiac arrest. Oh yes, my friends.... the snowmobile racing excitement is in the atmosphere as we get closer to the first Saturday in February 2025. If we’re doing our job right, your interest and blood pressure should be climbing soon and at a high-octane rate. No need to be too concerned, the prognosis for the 56th running of the International 500 is positive. We got your back and your cure. For the next several weeks you should experience a self-prescribed daily dose of anticipation. Expect simple side effects such as different stages of increased excitement levels, moments of anxiousness, the desire to share I-500 information with others and.... the almost uncontrollable urge to take off work from January 28th to February 1st. 2025. Historically,

I

continued on page 28

I-500 the finish line

continued from page 27

it’s a known fact that most I-500 race fans are able to return to work with a normal pulse by the first Monday following the I-500 race. Please be advised the International 500 is extremely contagious and most likely will return on an annual basis.

In order to prevent an irregular heartbeat or need for a pacemaker when considering attending the I-500 let us remind you of a few things. The time to get serious with your consideration to attend the 56th running of the I-500 is NOW! We’ve mentioned before in previous articles and it’s worth mentioning again, securing lodging is critical when planning to attend the I-500. No need to check your blood pressure yet. You still have time. Each year at this time we see the window for securing lodging will

be closing more and more as we get close to race week. Again, it’s recommended you secure lodging as soon as possible.

You may consider your arrival date so you can plan to experience the whole week of I-500 activities hosted at the track and other locations around the community. For more information regarding the I-500 weeklong schedule of events commencing January. 28th. through the main event Feb.1st.2025 Visit our website at: www.i-500.com Simply click on the desired links for more information.

So far, the pulse seems to be steady. So let me share a couple things with you. When I do these articles, I like to share things that I know get overlooked at times. Whenever I write an article

There’s a good chance I’m going to mention something as a reminder, hopefully you may find the reminder helpful. Let’s start with a couple things I’m listening below.

• Parking at the I-500. Over the years, there’s been a misconception about. parking at the I500. The general public. is of the mindset that parking is handled by the I500 management staff. The very same people who manage The project as a whole. That’s not the case at all. Parking at the I-500 is handled by a local organization known as the SOO Salmon. Derby club. For more information visit our website at www.i-500.com Click on the contact link for more parking information.

• Main I-500 race start time. Make no mistake about it, Saturday’s main I-500 race event continued on page 30

28 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

+

I-500

A Partnership in Speed!

Sunday, January 26th, 2025 12:00-5:00p.m. - Office / 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

Meijer Pro Shootout IV (#MPS) Kokosing-Alberici-Traylor Old 600 Mods Shootout IV (#KAT600Mods) 9:00a.m.-One Hour Following the Last Race Office / 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

Monday, January 27th, 2025 9:00a.m.-7:00p.m. - Office / 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 Modifieds Shootout IV (#KAT600Mods) Wheeler Upfitters Soo Vintage Shootout (#SVS)

Thursday, January 30th, 2025 9:00a.m.- One Hour Following the Last Race - Office / 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)

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 Modifieds Shootout III (#KAT600Mods) • Wheeler Upfitters 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)

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 Office / 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 Official 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

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I-500 the finish line

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starts precisely at 10:00 AM. Again, that’s precisely 10:00 AM, not one second after. Opening ceremony for the I-500 main event on Saturday will start at 9:00 AM. You might consider an early arrival for the main event on Saturday.

• The I-500 Track hospitality area is heated with a large seating area with various types of food vendors. in addition to the heated sit-down area there are various types of food trucks on site as well.

• The I-500 award ceremony follows the completion of the race Saturday night. The award ceremony. commences. one and a half hours after the race is over. The award ceremony is.open to the public and is hosted within the. “Dream makers” concert facility Located. inside Kewadin casino Sault Ste Marie MI. No admission charge.

• Interested in becoming a volunteer for the i-500?

Volunteers are the backbone of the I-500. The fact that for 56 years. it’s been a total volunteer project.

It’s a professional race no different than any other professional race around the world. In today’s society, volunteering isn’t what it used to be. Everything is so fast paced and high tech. it’s hard to get people to want to come out and volunteer. Plain and simple, your abilities don’t even matter. There are so many areas where we can use assistance. We’re certain we can find something that you’re able to work with. There are many good things that come out of volunteering.

The key for us is we make it fun. We take care of our own. We enjoy what we do and we become a family.

And when you volunteer, it just simply makes you feel good about yourself. We all have a purpose, right?

Come on up. Join our staff. Help by volunteering doing something fun, You don’t have to be a resident to volunteer. The I-500 has volunteers from various places in Michigan and from across the border in Canada as well. To become a volunteer or to learn more about our volunteer program, visit our website at: wwww.i-500.com — click on the volunteer link.

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BRING IN YOUR SLED FOR FIRST RATE SERVICE! As for other accommodation needs? The City of Sault St Marie, Michigan, and surrounding communities have practically anything and everything you would ever need. The SOO I-500 Fried’s his self on operating as a total volunteer project. Every aspect of this whole event is managed and operated on a volunteer basis. Over the past five decades, the I-500 has existed largely in part to the generous support of commercial businesses throughout the community and surrounding areas. The heartbeat of the I-500 has been able to keep bidding strong All these years, due to the kindness and support given by so many businesses. We strongly urge you to please, please, please.... support the local businesses for your various needs. We can assure you the U.P. hospitality you’ll receive is topflight. We certainly appreciate your efforts to support the Commercial partners who help make the I-500 possible.

Considering the content of this article. you can obviously feel the pulse of the I-500. Hence, recognizing it continues to be strong. Within the next 30 days we’ll be leaving the “ tween” season behind us. That means it’s time for us to pick up the pace, increase our blood pressure a little bit and start to ramping U.P. the ole excitement and anticipation as we race towards the 56th. running of the world’s fastest. longest, tough. and most exciting snowmobile endurance race. •

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destination ride: Elliot Lake

32 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

Elliot Lake

Ontario

A Hidden Gem

BY STEVE ANTUNES CONTRIBUTING WRITER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY NORTHERN EXPOSURES PHOTOGRAPHY AND ALGOMA COUNTRY

E

lliot Lake, Ontario, is a hidden gem for snowmobiling enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of Canada’s winter landscape. Nestled in beautiful Northern Ontario in the Algoma region, this charming City offers an exhilarating snowmobiling experience that attracts riders of any age and skillset. With its extensive network of trails and welcoming community, Elliot Lake promises adventure and scenic beauty for snowmobilers of all skill levels.

Located two and half hours east of Sault Ste Marie on Hwy 17 and north on Highway 108, getting to Elliot Lake and out on the trail is a simple and enjoyable experience. You can access the trails directly from your Hotel or Lodge parking lot or if you’re in a real hurry, you can pull into the Southern Staging Area just north of the Elliot Lake Airport on Highway 108 or use the Staging Area at the Elliot Lake Snowbirds Clubhouse. Both are seconds from the trail.

Once you’re here, the city boats nearly 200 miles of

groomed OFSC insured trails. These magnificent trails offer a wide variety of terrain that treats sledders to a mix of twisting trails. Riders will experience an amazing tour through dense forest with various species of trees then onto old logging roads followed by multiple river crossings, ultimately climbing up and down the Canadian Shield. The scenery is breathtaking with several lookouts along the way featuring waterfalls and other amazing vistas which are perfect to satisfy the photographer or to get that Instagram worthy picture.

There are even 3 warm up shacks with outdoor facilities throughout the trail system should you need a break.

Snow shouldn’t be an issue as the City sees average annual snowfalls of 9 feet with temperatures between 10 and 12 degrees Fahrenheit between December and March.

Snowmobiling is part of the Elliot Lake Culture and this starts with the Local Elliot lake Snowbirds Snowmobile Club whose volunteers take great pride in maintaining the continued on page 34 MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • NOVEMBER • 2024 | 33

BIG MILER

destination ride: Elliot Lake

Perfectly Groomed Trails

continued from page 33

The Algoma trail system consists of over 2,000 miles of groomed trails carved through the rugged Canadian Shield and old growth forests.

trails and promoting the sport. They hold a variety of events through the season including several fun runs, social and club rides. Visit their Facebook page to keep up with their latest news and activities.

Elliot Lake is a compact full service city nestled amongst the snowmobiling trails. The Hampton Inn and Dunlop Lake Lodge are here to welcome riders when they are ready for a rest and the City boasts 17 dining options several of which are accessible by sled. Before heading out, you can visit one of our two fueling stations (Esso and Canadian tire), one of which is open 24 hours and both are located near the trails.

Plus, we have Polaris and Skidoo dealers right in town to handle any mechanical issues or if you just want to pick up a new coat, accessory or helmet.

When you need a break from riding, there are a large number of things to do in the community. If you want to stay outside, there are hundreds of lakes in and around the city

sledalgoma.com

continued on page 36

34 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

d n u o r g y a l P r e t Your Win

Elliot Lake boasts high annual snowfalls and an endless number of groomed and ungroomed trails. Add to that, thousands of lakes with spectacular fishing, downhill and cross country skiing, great accommodations, retail shops and eateries, all within the city limits.

Elliot Lake, Ontario is your winter getaway. Come and play!

(705) 848-2287 ex.2406

destination ride: Elliot Lake

continued from page 34

that are perfect for ice fishing. Bring your skis and visit Mount Dufour, the City’s 7 run downhill ski hill.

The City also has dedicated cross country ski trails and endless miles of trails perfect for snowshoeing.

Need to warm up and spend some time indoors? You can visit the curling club, bowling alley, billiards club, bingo hall or one of our many retailers. There’s plenty to do in the city that makes Elliot Lake a perfect 4 to 6 day riding/winter getaway.

Planning your trip? Elliot Lake serves as a great start, or midpoint to your snowmobiling vacation. If you’re starting in the west, you can ride to Elliot Lake right from Sault Ste Marie along the D trail. If you want to stay in the city, D, F and EL1 trails will bring you right back into town. You can get in a full day of riding and still end up back in the city center. Looking for more seat time? The amazing North Shore Loop will take you north to Black Creek then back through

Bruce Mines, Thessalon, Blind River and Spanish then right back to Elliot Lake. Feeling super adventurous?

From Elliot Lake you can head north to Chapleau, Wawa and even Hearst!

Your only limits are snow and your desire to keep going.

The City hosts events throughout the winter including our annual Ice Fishing Derby and Elliot Lake Winterfest. To learn more about Elliot Lake, the City’s events and snowmobiling, visit Exploreelliotlake.com. •

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Border Cup Battle

BY DOMINIC SANTINA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

MANCELONA— orthern Power Race Park is preparing to turn the snocross world upside down this December.

On December 7-8, NPRP will host the inaugural Border Cup, which will pit riders from the United States against riders from Canada—the event partners with Michigan Snocross and the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association. The two days of races will culminate with one team winning a Stanley Cup-style trophy. A first-of-akind event will involve riders ages four to thirty and above and kick off the Snocross schedule’s start. The first ISOC National race will be in Ironwood, Michigan, the following weekend.

The two-day event will have riders compete through two qualifying rounds daily to earn a spot in the finals.

The top 10 spots will be awarded through qualifying, while the final five will come through an LCQ. The riders will earn qualifying points for their respective series but not towards the Border Cup through qualifying rounds.

The points for the Border Cup championship will come during the finals of each class. The top 10 in each class will earn points for their team while following the ISOC National Championship points system. The event will bring together a team aspect not seen in snocross.

Even though it is the inaugural event, it is already attracting teams nationwide. Southside Polaris, Elite Motorsports, and Hemmer Motorsports will have all or some of their riders competing in the event. The Border

N

Cup will include any rider from the two series and some European Pro riders. Any European pro riders will compete for the country their race team is from. Michigan Snocross and CSRA have combined to offer a pro payout of $13,000, which will be divided between the pro classes. This could also draw more riders or teams to the event as time passes.

This event will provide high-quality racing action and great battles throughout the track. As we prepare for the event, here are a few riders to keep your eyes on as contenders from each country who can help bring home the Border Cup. TEAM USA Brock Wilson — #624 — Cheboygan, MI We are starting with one of our younger riders, Brock Wilson, who has primarily competed in the 200 cc divisions for the last couple of seasons. Wilson jumped to a transition sled this previous year and was a contender at both regional levels. Wilson was the 2023-2024 Michigan Snocross champion for 200 6-9 and finished runner-up in the 200 -9-12. In his debut season on the transition sled, Wilson finished third overall in the regional points. While Wilson was a contender on the regional circuit, his presence on the national scene was also strong. He finished runner-up in the 200 6-12 national points. He is a talented young rider and no matter if he is riding his 200 or riding in one of the young transition continued on page 40

38 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

Jack Gelinas #680

Brock Wilson #624

Jade Bidinot #507

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • NOVEMBER • 2024

| 39

Justin Heyward #194 Rilee Nowacyzk #616

Kenny Goike #450

Tess Stone #100

continued from page 38

classes or both. He will be a contender to help bring in some early points for the United States.

Tess Stone — #100 – Traverse City, MI Tess Stone is one of the top young female riders in the Michigan Snocross series. Last year, Stone took home two Michigan Snocross championships: one in the 200 girls division and the other in a girls’ transition class. She proved she could also hand with the boys, as she took home a third-place finish in the 200 8-12 division behind Wilson and champion Jack Gelinas. Stone has shown determination and toughness and displayed speed. She will have a couple of other girls from the United States and the Michigan Snocross series that will challenge her, but she can help lead the charge.

Porter Jacklitch — #101 – Wolverine, MI Porter Jacklitch is one of the up-andcoming young riders from Michigan.

He started to make some noise last year on the national circuit by finishing seventh in the Transition 10-13 division points. Jacklitch took home two championships last year at the regional level. He claimed the Transition 10-13 and Junior 10-13 championships. Jacklitch. While he will be moving up the Junior 14-17 age division, he already made a splash by picking up a podium at the end of the 2023-2024 season.

Jacklitch improved his riding ability over the previous season and made significant strides to help contend at any level.

Kenny Goike — #450 – Armanda, MI A young and rising star from

40 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

Michigan, Kenny Goike is bound to make his presence known at the Snowcross Border Cup. A rookie in the heavily competitive ISOC National Sport class, Goike found his way to a fifth-place finish in the point standings. Goike also finished runner-up in the Michigan Snocross Pro-Lite and Pro class championship.

The high school senior has started to put the circuit on notice. He will be one of Team USA’s strongest riders and one of a few key pieces to helping bring home the cup.

Tyler Archambault — #901 — Mancelona, MI The hometown man, Tyler Archambault, put his name on the ISOC National Pro Lite map last year as a rookie after coming out of the gates swinging. Archambault took a third-place finish in national points continued on page 44

tween the Soo and Kinross has improved greatly. They have fixed most of the problems in that area. As you may recall, there

SAULT STE MARIE

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REAL ESTATE

continued from page 42

two seasons ago. He then jumped into the Pro Lite class and led the opening race until mechanical issues.

He continued to run towards the front until sustaining a season-ending wrist injury. Archambault also purchased the Pro Lite and Pro Championships for the Michigan Snocross series. Archambault, a young and confident rider, will be one of the more prominent names around the Border Cup this season.

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Rilee Nowacyzk — #616 — Holland, MI Another rider who was a rookie to their class last year, Rilee Nowacyzk, earned a top-10 finish in the national points standings in Pro Women. Nowaczyk used last year as a learning lesson and has the confidence and determination to make herself known nationally. A runner-up finish in the regional point standings in the Pro Women division. There are many talented Pro Women riders and a couple in Michigan. Nowacyzk is one of the up-and-coming ones and will be a contender to help lead this Pro Women’s class for Team USA. TEAM CANADA After mentioning some riders contending for Team USA and who could help bring them the championship. Here are some of the top riders from Canada who could give them the inaugural win.

JACK GELINAS — #680 — WYOMING, ON Jack Gelinas might be one of the most talented young riders in the sport. A multi-time 200-champion at the Michigan Snocross and National levels, Gelinas has now stepped up to a transition sled. The change has not been able to slow him down. A kid who loves to ride and is already passionate and talented, he will be a top contributor to Team Canada. continued on page 44

HOUGHTON LAKE

eptember, 2019

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Connor Muir — #401 — Minesing, ON A familiar name around the Michigan Snocross circuit the last few seasons, Connor Muir is one of the top young transition riders for CSRA. After posting a second-place finish in the CSRA’s Transition 1 (810) division last season.

Muir also took home a fourth-place finish in the standings for Novice 200s for CSRA. He is a rider who can potentially provide some depth at both the 200s and Transition age groups, along with Gelinas.

JADE BIDINOT — #507 — BEETON, ON Jade Bidinot is one of the top young female riders on the CSRA circuit and another Canadian rider familiar with the NPRP snocross track. Bidinot was the 2024 Novice 200 champion, over Muir and 23 other riders. She also claimed a top-five finish in the Transition 1-point standings. Bidinot also made her presence known in the Michigan snocross series by claiming podium positions in the first two rounds. There are some talented young female riders over at CSRA as well, and they could pose a

real challenge to the young female classes.

edge, and the same would be expected in the Border Cup.

JUSTIN HEYWARD — #194 — CAMLACHIE, ON A Junior 14-17-year-old rider in the CSRA series, Justin Heyward is just another of a handful of Canadian riders to race at NPRP. Heyward opened the first two rounds of the Michigan Snocross series in Mancelona by taking a second and third-place finish in the finals. He used that momentum to finish second in the Junior 14-17 points in CSRA last season.

He has already come over and pushed some of the Michigan riders to the

HAILEY BELANGER — #574 — BRACEBRIDGE, ON Haley Belanger, a two-time CSRA Pro-Am women’s champion, will be the biggest competition for the USA women. Belanger has dominated the CSRA scene over the past couple of years and will look to bring her experience to challenge for the cup. She is one of the few Canadians mentioned who has not been to the NRPR, which might be just another advantage in favor of the Michigan riders.

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JAKE WEIR — #459 — BRACEBRIDGE, ON The current top rider in the CSRA series is Jake Weir, the defending Pro champion and a four-time overall champ.

While much about Weir and his riding ability is unknown, winning any series’ top championship is tough. He will be the biggest name from the CSRA series to follow through the two-day battle of the Border Cup. There will be no doubt Archambault and the rest will have their hands full with Weir.

There is still some time until the Border Cup begins, and more riders could decide to join the fight. These series regulars will definitely be seen competing for their country in December. Northern Power Race Park hopes to see you there, cheering on your country this year and in years to come, as this becomes a yearly event.

If you are interested in attending the inaugural Snowcross Border Cup or would like more information on the event. You can visit www.northernpowerracepark. com or visit their Instagram or Facebook pages. •

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vintage sled

Ski Doo Bullet

BY BRENT CORBIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A

few years ago, I was helping a buddy relocate his boat from the Detroit River. The trip led us up and around Michigan to Grand Haven. At one point, we stopped for fuel and a restroom break in Mackinaw City.

As I walked to the marina facility, I bumped into a guy working on a vintage Enduro motorcycle. I asked him if he needed a hand, and he responded with “do you work on these?” I said that I really didn’t, but that I do work on old snowmobiles. He quickly replied, “I have an old Ski-Doo Silver Bullet that you can have!” He told me that the motor has issues, and the sled is in rough shape but has a new track. He continued to tell me that the sled belonged to his late Father and had sat on the barn floor for several years and just wanted it out of the way. He told me that he lived in Lansing, which is close to where I live, so after a month of phone tag with him, I was able to meet up with him to pick up the sled.

After I got home, I assessed the challenges that I faced with the worn and tattered old Silver Bullet. I decided to breathe some life back into the bullet and make it bigger and better after years of living on the dirt floor of a barn. After a complete teardown, the chassis was sent out for a media blast, then the entire chassis was skim coated to fill the pitted metal before primer. I chose the traditional Ski-Doo yellow over the silver as well as the hood with satin back accents on the headlight, grill and windshield. The original seat was replaced with a newer and more comfortable one from a Ski-Doo MXZ I found at a local salvage yard.

The original power was a 340CC 24HP which was

46 | NOVEMBER • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

replaced with a 1979 5500 Blizzard 503CC 60+HP with twin 34MM Mikuni carbs. A custom motor mount was fabricated to mate motor to chassis. Also, the 503-exhaust manifold was grafted to team up with the original 340 tuned exhaust to release the aroma of Klotz Oil fuel mix.

My resto-mod project took approximately a year to complete. A new look and feel with some extra added fire power was added, to get down the trail. I’ll call it the “Bullet reloaded.” •

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