WSN February

The Official Publication of the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs

AWSC.org

FEB 2023 // $2.95

OUT

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– PERFECTING WISCONSIN’S TRAILS

vote 2023!

a look at your awsc candidates

exploring burnett county director’s ride and meet

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JOHNSON CREEK, WI

The Official Publication of the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs AWSC Executive Board President Dave Newman

CONTENTS February 2023 • Vol. 38 No. 6

dnewman@ceas.coop

Vice President Lori Heideman racingator@wctc.net

Treasurer Lauren Levey

We present another Time Tracks masterpiece from Jim Urquhart, who weaves us a story about a 1973 Alouette Super and the magic of a man named Villeneuve.

llevey17@gmail.com

Secretary Sue Smedegard suesmed@gmail.com

Executive Director Michael Holden holdenmach@outlook.com

AWSC Office/Membership 800-232-4108

Wisconsin Snowmobile News Kale Wainer - Managing Editor 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346 Phone: 218-779-6972 Email: kale@mspninc.com

Advertising Sales

Diane Voight 715-957-0091 diane@mspninc.com Joel Mellenthin 800-989-6776 joel@mspninc.com Dwain Stadie 847-683-0140 dwain@mspninc.com Wisconsin Snowmobile News (USPS 683-170 ISSN 0745161X) is published seven times per year – September, October, November, December, January, February and March – by MSPN, 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346. Periodical postage paid at Eden Prairie, MN, 55344 and additional entries.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Wisconsin Snowmobile News, c/o AWSC, 529 Trail Side Dr., Suite 200, DeForest, WI 53532.

Subscriptions: Subscriptions are available through membership to the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs for $20 per year. Enclose payment and mail to: Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs, 529 Trail Side Dr., Suite 200, DeForest, WI 53532. For questions regarding your subscription, including a change of address or multiple copies being received, please contact the AWSC office directly at 800-232-4108.

6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346 800-989-6776 / 952-473-7870 fax: 952-473-7805 info@mspninc.com

Publisher Joel Mellenthin Associate Publisher Paula Jones Managing Editor Kale Wainer Art Director Corey Friesen Advertising Sales Joel Mellenthin Diane Voight Dwain Stadie Photo Archives CJ Ramstad Contributors Dwain Stadie, Diane Voight, Pat Bourgeois, Joel Mellenthin, Rachyl Burzinski, Dave Newman, Sue Smedegard, Jim Urquhart Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials and photographs are welcome but cannot be returned unless sender provides a self-addressed stamped envelope. Wisconsin Snowmobile News and MSPN are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings.Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish in all or part.

Notice: The views and opinions expressed by our contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs or the Wisconsin Snowmobile News and MSPN staff.

Warning: Some of the photographs in this publication show action that may be potentially dangerous. We encourage safe operation of all snowmobile equipment and advise you not to attempt to duplicate any action that is seen on these pages. Let your experience and skills guide you.

Copyright © 2023 by MSPN. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

FEATURES

12 VOTE 2023! We present your AWSC executive board candidates for the 2023 election to be held at the Spring Convention in March.

14 EXPLORING BURNETT COUNTY WSN and over a hundred of the

association’s directors and reps explored Siren, Wisconsin during the annual AWSC Directors Meeting. Read our stellar review of this riding area and review the important meeting notes.

17 SLED REVIEWED - POLARIS VR1 IS THE ONE Four decades in the making, the ultimate Polaris Indy has arrived and your Wisconsin Snowmobile News editors were there to test it.

DEPARTMENTS 6 President 7 Notes from the VP 8 Office Insights 9 Queen’s Corner 10 Youth Perspective

25 Did You Know?

26 Club News 28 Club Events Calendar 29 Marketplace

On the Web

Digital issues of this magazine can be viewed and downloaded for free at mspninc.com/publications/wisconsin-snowmobile-news.

Upcoming AWSC Meetings

March 24-26, 2023 at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, Green Bay, WI. Visit awsc.org for more information.

Deadline to Submit

Submission deadline for the last WSN issue of the season (March) is 2/7/23.

Please send all Club News, Club Flashback, Readers Ride to kale@mspninc. com or Wisconsin Snowmobile News, 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180, Eden Prairie, MN 55346.

For More Information

VISIT AWSC.ORG OR CALL the AWSC at 800-232-4108 facebook.com/AWSC-Association-of-Wisconsin-Snowmobile-Clubs February 2023 3

EDITOR’S NOTEBOOK WSN IS YOUR SOURCE FOR A WIDE VARIETY OF INFO KALE@MSPNINC.COM

I

’m penning this after a fresh return from the AWSC Directors Meeting held in Siren, Wisconsin and I’m fired up for snowmobiling in this state! I’ve said it six times, and I’ll say it fourteen more, Wisconsin knows snowmobiling and it shows in the quality of leadership, the AWSC events hosted, and the continual large turnouts gathering at them.

Within this issue of Wisconsin Snowmobile News, AWSC President, Dave Newman, educates all of us on the Directors Meeting, tells us why it happens, and further discusses the make-up of the AWSC Board. Deeper into the magazine, you can learn more from the detailed coverage of the Directors Meeting and all the corresponding committee reports.

Check out the VP Notes column from Lori Heideman as she discusses her visits to many clubs across the state, and the importance of communicating to everyone. Like Lori, speaking to club members is one of my favorite parts of being the editor of this magazine.

One of my favorite side conversations with many members in Siren revolved around the incredibly cool trail maintenance equipment used to clear storm damage. I heard stories of home-engineered brush/tree cutting equipment that speeds up the process, to tracked

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pickup trucks built for multi-season use like the red Ford shown here from Barron County. All of it is cool in my book, and you’ll get a glimpse of it in this issue. Next season, I’d love to dedicate space in every issue highlighting your equipment, but I’ll need you to email me information and a couple quality photos to do so.

I’ll leave you with my least favorite conversation, and that was hearing of the growing number of encounters snowmobilers are having with groomers on the trail. On page 19, I urge you to read, and share with your family members, some tips on safely approaching a groomer on the trail. I don’t want to hear of riders getting injured when something like hitting a groomer can be avoided. Let’s all have a great, safe winter!

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WISCONSIN

PRESIDENT’S COMMUNIQUE

WHAT A START TO WINTER By: Dave Newman

W

hat a start to the winter! The winter storm that hit much of the state in mid-December brought snow to most areas. And a LOT of snow in some, which included a heavy coating of ice before the snow. This combination resulted in trees and brush blocking the trails in a way most have never seen before.

As I write this in early January most areas are finally getting their trails opened after working on them for weeks. If you follow these clubs on Facebook you have seen the pictures. The amount of volunteer hours it has taken has been nothing short of amazing. I hope if you live in this area of the state, and you had time and were physically able that you helped in some way. If not, I certainly hope you weren’t one of those complaining about the trails not being open. Hats off again to our amazing club members and a huge thank you to every one who helped get the trails open for all to enjoy!

DIRECTORS MEETING IN SIREN I am writing this immediately after the directors meeting in Siren on January 8. Many directors and reps along with their spouses and families where able to come for the entire weekend to do some riding. The trails were great and the weather and scenery couldn’t have been better. Burnett and Polk counties did an awesome job getting their trails cleaned up after the December storm and they had plenty of snow. It hasn’t always been possible to attend these January meetings and have the local trails open, so it is always a treat when we can.

6 WSN - www.awsc.org

These directors and reps give up their time to attend four of these meetings each year, many times having to travel to the other side of the state. So, if we can include a little fun and better yet, some snowmobiling in with the meeting it makes it a little more worth their effort.

THE MAKE-UP OF THE AWSC BOARD The AWSC board is made up of one director from each county in the state and most counties also have a rep that can attend and vote in place of the director if they can’t make it to a meeting.

This makes for a very large board. Most organizations do not have to deal with over 70 voting board members. While it can be challenging at times, it does give us representation from every area of the state. And it also allows these directors to take the information from the meeting back home to share with their clubs.

THANK YOU I want to thank these individuals for their commitment and dedication. We throw a lot of information at them during these four-hour meetings and appreciate their input and participation in the discussions we have. While they are elected by their county’s clubs, they attend these meetings as volunteers like everyone else in the AWSC. The AWSC does reimburse them some for their mileage, but the rest of the cost to attend these meetings comes out of their own pockets unless their county helps cover some of their expenses. THINK SNOW!

WISCONSIN

VP NOTES

COMMUNICATION IS KEY Lori Heideman – Vice President

T

he past three months I have been traveling around Wisconsin attending many county and club meetings. Sometimes, I feel we have a communication break down between the AWSC and our members, so I took it upon myself to travel to these meetings to sit down face-to-face. Generally, we see our director and reps four times a year and AWSC members at our yearly convention and workshop. Other than that, we may never see the rest of our membership – the exact reason why I hit the road to attend these meetings.

RUNNING FOR AWSC PRESIDENT My tour was a very eye-opening experience. I have been welcomed at every meeting and have answered many questions regarding the AWSC, as well as clearing up some misconceptions. Through this experience, I have actually learned more about myself and my extensive knowledge about our AWSC program. One of my takeaways was learning many people have no idea what the AWSC stands for, or even does for them as members. Through these meetings, I have decided to run for president of the AWSC with one of my goals to continue educating at these meetings and talk to as many members as I can.

MY INTENT AND WHO I AM My intention is not about giving an AWSC report to the clubs, that is your director or rep’s job. My intention is to talk to, and answer questions about the AWSC. As I am running for AWSC president this spring, I want people to know who I am and what I stand for.

Everyone hears me talk about my favorite subjects at meetings, but few people know why these are my favorite. I want people to be comfortable enough to stop and talk to me, whether that is out on the trail or at a workshop.

MY INVOLVEMENT I have been involved in the AWSC for a very long time. And as the vice president for the past 9 years, I feel I have learned Wisconsin’s organized snowmobiling program as well as anyone. I attribute this knowledge to those who were mentors in the many years I have been involved in the AWSC. And as I travel around talking about our program, my confidence has grown. Wisconsin has a great program and that is thanks to the leaders before us.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY Success within any organization relies on successful communication.

Think about the old game of “telephone.” A message may start at the county level, but by the time it gets to the club level, part of the message is missing and the correct information spread through the channel breaks down further. The AWSC tries really hard to get our messages out and minimize misconceptions, including through the use of these Wisconsin Snowmobile News pages, but we know every member may not read it. We need to keep the lines of communication clear so the sport of snowmobiling in Wisconsin remains healthy.

I plan on traveling to many more club and county meetings as I believe that communication is key. If you would like me to attend, all you have to do is ask. If I have the date and time open, I will attend.

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February 2023 7

WISCONSIN

OFFICE INSIGHTS

YOUR CHANCE TO JOIN THE FUN OF AN AWSC CONVENTION By: Stormy Hovey – Office Manager

H

ere it is February and that means spring Convention is right around the corner.

The AWSC Annual Convention will be held in Green Bay, WI (Radisson Hotel & Conference Center), March 24-26, 2023. All clubs should be receiving convention information in a mailing sent to the club membership chair. The information has also been emailed to both the club president and the club membership chair.

Both of those statements are true if we have your updated officer information for your club. Convention registration forms and online registration will be available on AWSC.org.

AWSC OFFICER VOTING Voting for 2023-24 AWSC officers will be done at the Annual meeting on Saturday, March 25, at the start of the General Session. Candidate profiles are highlighted in this issue, so make sure to read them. The deadline for returning voting delegate forms is Monday, March 6, 2023.

TRAIL PASSES While I’m writing this article, the phones are ringing off the hook.

It is mid-January and people are still purchasing trail passes! I understand some people purchased new snowmobiles and need to purchase their trail passes now. Having said that, I would like to remind people discounted trail passes go on sale for the

current season in July. A little bit of planning on your part will make your snowmobile season less stressful. Most clubs start with their membership drives in the fall. Then is the time to get your membership renewed and order your trail passes. Doing this in advance would take the pressure off the membership chair of your club and help with the workload in the office.

ACCIDENTAL DEATH POLICY RENEWED Effective Wednesday, January 4, 2023 the $3,000 Accidental Death Policy has been renewed. Please note there was a lapse in coverage from August 18, 2022 to January 4, 2023. If you have a claim or questions, please feel free to call the office. You will be receiving an individual member letter from AWSC/American Income Life requesting information.

WISCONSIN SNOWMOBILE NEWS ADDRESS CHANGE OR CANCELLATION INSTRUCTIONS With the January issue we went to our current membership list for the magazine. If your address is incorrect, please let your membership chair know or call the office. If you are receiving more than one magazine and only want one, please contact the AWSC Office to cancel one.

Ride safe and please be respectful of land owner’s property — stay on the trails!

See you at Convention!!

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WISCONSIN

QUEEN’S CORNER

THE TRAIL TO 101 EVENTS

AWSC Miss Snowflake misssnowflake2223@gmail.com

By: Rachyl Burzinski

T

hank you to the clubs and businesses who invited me to their events so far! I’ve met many amazing people! The end of December/early January visits included: - I was able to speak and inform a snowmobile safety group at Quam’s Marine & Motor Sports in Stoughton. Thank you to Waubesa Snowbirds club members and president, Sam and Rod! - Pine Lake Lodge in Hurley. If you have never visited, you are missing out on their incredible food and hospitality. So, visit soon!

- Cedarville Snow Travelers club meeting in Freeport, Illinois.

Weather-permitting, they plan on having a Poker Run on January 21.

- Kids Holiday Free T-Shirt Coloring Workshop at Walnut Creek Awards and Promotions, Beloit, WI. - I was able to stop in to K&M Sales and Service, Inc. and talk with both Ken and Mark. Huge thank you for the donation of boots and a helmet, and for being one of the amazing Miss Snowflake supporters.

- B&B Adventures of Mercer had me break in one of their Polaris Matrix 650s. The B&B team takes excellent care of their rental fleet to ensure their clients a great time!

- I stopped in at Donners Bay Resort, Butternut WI, Beavers Resort, Mercer WI, and Birches Resort, Springstead, WI for visits.

- Got to speak with Wisconsin Senator, Romaine Robert Quinn at the AWSC winter directors meeting, Siren, WI.

- Picked up my new 2023 Ski-doo MXZ Blizzard 600R ETEC donated for the year by another amazing Miss Snowflake supporter, Donahue Super Sports in Wisconsin Rapids.

Be sure you join a club and help however you can. Many clubs had trails closed due to extensive storm and tree damage.

Much help is needed throughout the season to keep the trails safe and in good condition. I’m looking forward to more events and fun experiences in January and February! If you would like me to attend your county or club events please email me at misssnowflake2223@gmail.com. Let it snow!

February 2023 9

WISCONSIN

YOUTH PERSPECTIVES

TAKE A FRIEND SNOWMOBILING By: Jake Ward, Jackson County Youth Rep ver thought about taking a friend snowmobiling? I’ve personally gotten a couple friends involved and it feels pretty good to introduce them to a sport you love, and they end up enjoying it for the same reasons you do. I hope you have invited others like I have, and if not, I urge you to get on it. Nobody would want to miss out on all of the fun you can have simply by riding a snowmobile.

It’s my experience you don’t need to invite someone on a high mileage ride for them to have fun, nor does the ride have to be fast.

Whatever the ride, It SHOULD be hooking, thrilling and all the other positive words I can’t think of. Your friend should leave with a smile, and if they don’t, find out why and ask for a retry.

Some ride ideas include, taking a nice fun ride through the back forty. Don’t have access to a piece of property? What’s one thing we all work so hard on all year long? The trail system! That is always a great choice. Always remember safety first. Make sure your friend has the safety course completed if you would like to ride the trails.

You see the local restaurant off in the distance… they might be hungry! FOOD! FOOD! FOOD! People love food! Who knows, maybe the owner might be that next friend you take out for a ride.

Do they like to work or be outside in general? Invite them to a meeting or some trail work days. Let them see what really goes into it all. They might get an eye opened about it and want to help.

Invite them to your club fundraiser, selling raffle tickets is pretty fun! Or simply just drawing the tickets for a raffle. Got a young kid around? They love attention and they might get hooked after that.

Get creative with it. The “Take a Friend Snowmobiling Campaign” for 2023 is February 11-20. Just in time for you reading this to take a friend out. Thank you for reading. Think snow!

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SNOWMOBILE CLUBS DONATE TO LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

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on-perishable food goods were donated to food pantries in Sparta, Cashton and Tomah recently. The donation came from the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Club’s youth group (KAOS), which held a food drive at their fall meeting. Each county with a youth group member was given a portion of the total collected and asked to donate that portion to local food pantries.

Pictured with the donated supplies are Sara Guthrie, Snowmobile Trails of Monroe County Youth Representative and Norwalk Trail Riders member; and Randy Murdock, Snowmobile Trails of Monroe County President and Warrens Trail Twisters Club member.

START EM YOUNG Bob McGuffin, currently a member of the Frosty Club in Land O Lakes, sent Wisconsin Snowmobile News proof that he is doing his part to get youth involved in snowmobiling.

We’re betting this is a future KAOS leader!

A FUTURE WSN COVER PHOTO? Sharon Williams sent this awesome photo she captured on Trail 31 from Iron River Wisconsin. Both Sharon and her husband (Pictured on snowmobile) were on this beautiful trail on the way back to the Delta area and it was just being groomed. She told us they caught up to the groomer and had to snap a picture. Sharon’s photo is a great reminder to read our Groomer Safety story on page 19. It outlines how to safely approach a groomer on the trail.

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February 2023 11

VOTE – YOUR AWSC CANDIDATES FOR 2023!

PRESIDENT – LORI HEIDEMAN After successfully holding the AWSC Vice President position for the past nine years, I have the knowledge to represent the AWSC as your next president.

I’ve been involved in snowmobiling since the late 80s. I was secretary of the Kellner Knights for many years and progressed to the vice president/membership chair for four years before becoming the Wood County Rep for two years starting in 2000. I then held the Wood County Director position from 2002-2014 when I became vice president of the AWSC. I have been involved in all aspects of snowmobiling. In 2005, I became a snowmobile safety instructor and have taught at least one class a year since. In 2016, I became a dual instructor for ATV/snowmobile safety. I had been a member of the Publicity Committee, until I became vice president. I was an original member of the Youth Committee and have been a huge supporter of the KAOS program. I have attended and spoke at many of the KAOS leadership weekends. I have attended the National Off Highway Recreational vehicle convention in Michigan with KAOS to speak about our program and getting the youth involved. I have attended many of the youth presentations at ISC. I have also been the co-chair of the Snowmobile Friendly Communities Committee since its inception and spoke on behalf of the association at many of these award ceremonies.

I have attended the AWSC VIP rides as well as WATVA’s VIP rides. I have attended the snowmobile rec council meetings and I have been to the capitol to lobby for our own legislation. Through all of these activities, I have met the many partners important to our snowmobile program.

I have attended ACSA’s DC Fly-In since 2014, where I have lobbied on behalf of snowmobilers. I have attended all ISC’s since 2013. In 2013 I was a committee member when Wisconsin hosted ISC. In 2024, We are bringing ISC back to Wisconsin and I am a co-chair with Secretary Sue Smedegard. I have been the midwest chapter vice chair, where I ran a meeting at the national level.

I feel the past 23 years have prepared me to become your next association president. I have learned so much from the current, as well as the past executive board, and now is the time to take the next step as I will be retiring from a 31 year career in public safety running a 9-1-1 center.

If elected president, I will continue to attend your meetings and get to know our membership. I would appreciate your support.

VICE PRESIDENT – GREG ROSCIZEWSKI I’m currently the Racine County AWSC Director (nine years) and running for vice president.

Snowmobiling has been a huge part of my life since my first ride on a 1970 Evinrude Bobcat at the age of seven. I’ve been a snowmobiler ever since and my wife Joyce and I have made snowmobiling our main family activity every fall and winter - the one thing we still do 12 WSN - www.awsc.org

together as a family, is ride. My daughter Laura, son-in-law Tony, son Aaron, and daughter-in-law Kristina have already introduced our four grandchildren to snowmobiling and Aaron even competes during the summer racing snowmobiles on asphalt.

In professional life, during and after college, I worked as an auto mechanic. I was manager of two different service stations which gave me an early taste of management and dealing with people. In 1989 I was hired as a Racine County Deputy Sheriff and retired in 2016 after 26 years. Some of my duties included working on our snowmobile patrol in winter and two full years on Lake Michigan water patrol.

I’ve been a club member since age 18 and during my 28 years as a Wind Lake/North Cape Drifter, I was the VP for four years and president for 11. I also served on our three-person trail boss committee where I worked extensively with our landowners. I’ve been an active groomer and dirt work tractor operator. I work extensively with the fundraising committee and help coordinate our “Sunday Gunday” raffle every year!

As a cabin owner in St. Germain, my wife and I are members of Sayner Barnstormers which gives me perspective on snowmobiling issues in both the south and the north.

Snowmobile access has always been a huge challenge to the snowmobile program and will definitely get worse if we don’t find ways to educate our user group. I believe we need to find some new ways to deal with trespassing. Enforcement is a much more complex issue than most people know. I believe I can bring some unique insight into enforcement and education if the legislative and trail committees continue to pursue some type of new legislation to make our trespass statutes more enforceable.

MY NUMBER ONE GOAL IS TO CONTINUE OUR WISCONSIN SNOWMOBILE LEGACY FOR ALL OF OUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN. Always remember AWSC is not ever the only show in town, but we will continue to be the best show in town! I’m very much looking forward to everyone’s support for AWSC VP. LIFE IS CHOICES! LET’S ALL CHOOSE SNOWMOBILING! SECRETARY - SUE SMEDEGARD I feel it’s important for you to know exactly what I do as your current AWSC Secretary, so you understand the significant time commitment. With a new president and vice president taking office in 2023, I believe it’s very important to keep some consistency on the board, and not create additional work for them as they learn their new roles. Many of the things I do on your behalf don’t have to be done by the secretary, but it will take some time to get that reassigned if there is a third new executive board member. In addition to these activities, I have agreed to co-chair the International Snowmobile Congress being hosted in Wisconsin in 2024, along with Lori Heideman. Our treasurer does an outstanding job, but is just completing her second year in the position and has rightly, and mainly, focused on her own position. It is my plan to step down as AWSC Secretary in 2025. I appreciate your continued support as we transition through the coming year and showcase the AWSC to the international snowmobile family.

In addition to maintaining the records and by-laws for the association, my duties and other activities on your behalf include: • Take minutes at directors meetings, get them out within 7-10 days (to exec board first for proofing) • Attend and take minutes at AWSC Executive Board meetings, distribute to executive board within 24 hours • After executive board determines who speakers should be, invite speakers for workshop and convention, send thank you cards after the event • AWSC Facebook page – update regularly, watch for inappropriate posts, share Miss Snowflake posts. Be sure all deadlines are posted and reminders are posted in a timely manner (Snowmobile Friendly Community, Scholarship, Convention and Fall Workshop information, etc). Respond to frequent messages.

• Liaison to Department of Tourism – regular communication, attend the Governors Convention on Tourism • Liaison to Wisconsin ATV/UTV Association- regular communication, attend VIP event and Annual meeting • Organize Miss Snowflake participation in World Championship Watercross • Represent the AWSC with trailer and display at Hay Days • Wisconsin Snowmobile News – work with president on meeting notes to be included quarterly, create magazine articles when appropriate, comprise articles on past presidents who have passed away and proofread each issue • Attend most ISCs – at my own expense • Assist directors/reps/county alliances/clubs whenever requested • Send sympathy cards/get well cards to directors, reps, etc., as appropriate • Related items – give AWSC report and represent AWSC at appropriate state and regional meetings • Member of WI Snowmobile Recreation Council • Member of WI Office of Outdoor Recreation Committee • Acting Chair of Gandy Dancer Trail Commission • Secretary/Treasurer of Northern Regional Trail Advisory Committee • Officer of local club and county association, along with local and county council and commissions.

BRITTANY LILLION – SECRETARY I am running for the position of AWSC Secretary. Hopefully I am a familiar face to many of you, attending almost every Workshop and Convention since 2005. I most recently served as one of the AWSC Kids and Adults on Sleds (KAOS) Co-Chairs from July 2016 to March 2023. I was the Dane County Representative from

2019-2022. My family was awarded AWSC and ACSA Snowmobile Family of the Year in 2019. I represented the AWSC as Miss Snowflake from 2010-2011. I was a KAOS Youth Representative and Advisor from 20102012, and was selected to travel to Winnipeg, Boston and Grand Rapids representing KAOS and the AWSC. I have traveled to six International Snowmobile Congress (ISC) events since 2012 and currently sit on the planning committee for ISC 2024. I have been a member of the Midnite Trail Riders since 1994, serving as their secretary and membership chair from 2007 to 2010, as well as being involved with their social media and fundraising committees.

My husband, James, and I have been married for four years and have a daughter, Olivia, and a rescue fur baby named Stanley. Professionally, I am Project Engineer for JT Engineering, employed with them since 2010. Besides snowmobiling, our family enjoys traveling and visiting new places!

I am running for secretary to further my involvement in the AWSC and believe I could provide a fresh perspective to the executive board. I am passionate about preserving this amazing sport for future generations. I have appreciated all the support I have received from the AWSC and its members in my past endeavors and will appreciate your support and vote in this election for AWSC Secretary.

TREASURER – LAUREN LEVEY I’m happy to announce I will be running again this year for the position of AWSC Treasurer. Over the past two years, I’ve really enjoyed learning the position and how it has operated before me. This year, I want to focus on making improvements and standardizations to the process. I want to be able to make it easier for more people to step up, learn the position, and eventually take over when I’m done. I’m always looking for suggestions and ideas from club members - my email is in the magazine so please use it!

I’ve received a ton of very positive feedback from many of you regarding the next generation stepping up to be involved on the executive board and I appreciate your support and grace over the last two years and hopefully moving forward into this election season. I am a proud member and Secretary of the Cambria Moonlighters snowmobile club in Columbia County, a member of the KAOS committee, a snowmobile and ATV safety instructor, and a sponsored trail rider for DSG Outerwear. My full-time job is at Alsum Farms & Produce in Friesland, WI as the Human Resource Coordinator. Outside of snowmobiling and work, I enjoy hunting, fishing, and taking out the UTV with my husband, Trevor, and introducing all of our hobbies to our one and a half year old, TJ. I appreciate your votes in the upcoming election and look forward to working with the executive board, AWSC reps and directors, KAOS members, and any WI snowmobile clubs members that I cross paths with.

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AWSC

DIRECTORS

EXPLORING BURNETT COUNTY

AWSC DIRECTORS RIDE AND MEETING IN SIREN, WISCONSIN STORY: DWAIN “DUEY” STADIE

T

he AWSC Winter Directors Meeting was held the weekend of Jan 6-8, in Siren, Wisconsin at the Lodge at Crooked Lake which is located in beautiful Burnett County. The County has a total area of 880 square miles, over 500 lakes and 80-ish miles of St Croix River valley. A great riding destination in northwest Wisconsin.

First, let me say with all the wet heavy snow the last couple of weeks all over northwest Wisconsin, which has caused huge amounts of tree damage on the trails, this county’s snowmobile clubs worked day and night to have all the tree damage cleared in time for this weekend’s ride. I understand all trails in this area were cleared, ready and open by late Friday afternoon. Hats off to you! What an amazing amount of work you accomplished, all of you need to pat yourselves on the back for a job really well done.

WSN staff rode together on Saturday where we found over 300 miles of great riding opportunities in this area, everything you could ask for, the thrill of cruising on the Gandy Dancer grade to the sheer magnitude of the open space of Sloughs Wildlife area, which was very cool to experience. Riding thru pine forests, hardwood forests, and the beautiful rolling hilly landscape, big open areas with beautiful breath-taking views overlooking valleys and cute little farms. I couldn’t believe all these wonderful riding experiences are in one location! We literally got to experience every type of trail riding there is in one single day. This makes riding here a real unique experience.

Photo Credit: David Gaskill 14 WSN - www.awsc.org

Photo Credit: David Gaskill

Our ride started out in the lodge’s parking lot where we took a short 50-foot spur trail to the Gandy Dancer Trail and headed north. Then headed west on 120 which took us thru the Sloughs Wildlife Area, when we reached Trail 45, we headed southwest to Grantsburg, passed thru town and continued south and then west down to the southern edge of the county crossing into Polk County for a short time arriving at Wolf Creek. We then headed east arriving in the town of Luck where we found Route 43 which would lead us back north returning to the lodge 103 miles later.

When we started the day, it was zero, and the temp rose to 14 degrees with beautiful blue skies and not a cloud in sight. AWSC Secretary and organizer of the Directors Ride, Sue Smedegard, must have paid extra for the perfect conditions on our day’s ride. Spending the whole day riding here is easy to do, so many nice trails and no shortage of great photo opportunities, with plenty of pit stops to get a sandwich and a Coke.

I suggest you put this county on your list of places to ride, you won’t be sorry. Also, thanks to the AWSC and Burnett County for a great Directors Meeting weekend.

For more detail on what happened at the Directors Meeting, please read the executive and committee reports on the next pages.

Photo Credit: Diane Voight

DIRECTORS MEETING NOTES MEETING NOTES: DAVE NEWMAN, AWSC PRESIDENT AND SUE SMEDEGARD, AWSC SECRETARY PRESIDENT – DAVE NEWMAN Dave thanked everyone in Burnett County for the great weekend. There was plenty of snow with beautiful trails and scenery. Dave thanked all of the volunteers who have been working so hard for the past weeks to get the trails open. He announced Adam Payne has been appointed as the new DNR Secretary, replacing Preston Cole who retired. He talked about the deer holiday hunt that became an issue again this year with the early snow. Many counties did open some or all of their trails regardless of the hunt going on. It is not against the law, if the landowners don’t mind. He explained that the DNR and other hunting groups are well aware of our opposition to any late season hunts. Every county has a County Deer Advisory Committee (CDAC) that recommends whether a county has a holiday hunt or not. Snowmobilers need to be involved in these public meetings and make their voices heard. The bottom line is this is one of the few tools counties have to kill more deer and no one can agree on additional ways to make that happen. The Trespass Committee for the American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA) is trying to compile a list of trails that have been closed or relocated due to trespassing. Please let Dave know if you have examples.

Are landowners just complaining or are they shutting off access?

Dave gave an update on legal challenges we are following. We are expecting a ruling soon in the Blue Mound State Park appeal. If the DNR would lose this case it would be sent back to the Circuit Court for a review of the DNR’s revised master plan which authorized the snowmobile trail. No ruling yet in the Polk County Stower Seven Lakes case. There was no injunction in this case and the trail is currently open to snowmobiles. There was also an issue with a portion of the Glacial Drumlin State Trail. The local club was told they couldn’t use a half mile of the trail due to a short portion being paved. After our complaints, the decision was reversed. But again, a club wasn’t notified of paving going on until it had been done. Dave reminded everyone to watch for the regional master plans that are being worked on. There are currently four in progress and five more to be done.

(L-R) Dave Newman, Lauren Levey, Rachyl Burzinski, Sue Smedegard, Wisconsin Senator Romaine Quinn, Mike Holden, Lori Heideman and Sam Landes VICE PRESIDENT – LORI HEIDEMAN Lori reported on some of the things KAOS is doing. Lori and two KAOS members have been invited by the Oregon State Snowmobile Association to attend their convention in February to talk about our youth program. She reminded everyone to start thinking about the “Of the Year Awards.” Applications are due in June. Lori reported on the work she and Sue have been doing as co-chairs for ISC 2024. The full committee will be meeting today for idea sharing and setting priorities. She reported that she has been traveling the state and attending meetings of county organizations. It has been very positive and she has answered many questions about the snowmobile program and the AWSC. She is hoping to attend as many meetings as possible. Let her know if you want her to attend yours.

SECRETARY – SUE SMEDEGARD Sue reminded clubs to be careful of what you post on FaceBook, especially stuck groomers. But do post positive things like volunteers working on the trails and scholarships, donations, etc. The Snowmobile Recreation Council (SRC) will be meeting on February 2, in St. Germain. Everyone is welcomed to attend either in person or

by Zoom. The agenda will be posted on the DNR website.

TREASURER – LAUREN LEVEY She presented the financial reports which was approved. She had the 2023 AWSC raffle tickets and ACSA raffle calendars available.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – MIKE HOLDEN He would like to meet with new directors to help guide them in their position. He reminded those dealing with the storm damage to document their work and their expenses. The SRC will be discussing the issue at their February 2, meeting. The groomer show will be held February 1 and 2, in St. Germain.

Volunteers in Burnett County clearing storm damage from trails. Share these types of photos on social media.

OFFICE REPORT – DON HAMILTON, REPORTING FOR STORMY HOVEY In December the office processed 23,973 trail passes, over 5,000 memberships and more than 150 commercial sponsors. Don informed the directors to remind their clubs that commercial sponsors can get discounted trail passes for the owner’s personal machines. The owner’s name does need to match their name in February 2023 15

the DNR database. Contact the office if you have questions how this works. American Income Life has agreed to bring back their free $3,000 accidental death and dismemberment benefit. They will be sending letters out to all our members later in January.

Return the post card if you are interested in talking to one of their representatives. Since they started providing this benefit in 1995, they have processed 322 claims for more than $500,000 to AWSC members. Don pointed out that a mailing is going to all club membership chairs in January and will include information about the Convention on March 24-26. The packet will also include voting delegate forms. He reminded clubs to make sure the person you designate is planning on attending.

MISS SNOWFLAKE – RACHYL BURZINSKI Rachyl already attended events in 14 counties. If you want to have her at your event, contact her misssnowflake2223@gmail. com. If you would like to follow her journey like her on Facebook and Instagram: AWSC Miss Snowflake.

During the meeting the ISMA Pledge on trespassing was taken by all in attendance and shared on the AWSC FaceBook page.

Clubs are encouraged to do the same.

at at

TRAILS – LARRY ERICKSON The committee discussed this year’s storm damage. It is recommended everyone document the storm damage time in SNARS so it can be separated out if you do go over the $250 per mile cap for non-grooming in supplemental. Larry was aware of a couple of incidents between groomers and snowmobiles. Riders are trying to pass when there isn’t room with the deep snow. If you have something happen, contact law enforcement immediately and take pictures. The committee is working on a new “Of the Year” category called junior groomer. It will be for those between 18 and 29 and the senior groomer will be for 30 and over. The topic of having national forest and county forest roads being plowed down to the dirt was brought up. It is best to deal with this on the local level with your township. The committee made a motion to recommend to the SRC and the DNR to look at increasing the first supplemental payment to 75 percent and make the final payment by the December 1, deadline.

Motion carried. If you have GPS tracking units to return, they can be brought to the convention.

WISCONSIN SNOWMOBILE NEWS – RACHYL BURZINSKI Please submit Club News, Club Flashback and Reader Rides with a couple photos to kale@mspninc.com. Kale can help edit the story.

Send event listings and address changes to Stormy at the AWSC office.

MULTI-USE TRAILS – DON MROTEK Don reported on the background of the issue of business signs on state property. They agreed the inclusion of business signs should Miss Snowflake is on her way to be considered a safety issue and wayfinding tool for snowmobilers. attending 101 events during her Details were discussed regarding the criteria needed to determine reign and is a third of the way there! which businesses would be allowed and how to keep the signs uniform. A discussion with the entire board was held to get additional VINTAGE/HISTORY – JEFF SCHWALLER feedback from counties with trails on state property.

Jeff talked about a new segment the committee is including in the WSN called “Did you Know?” Please ask your clubs what they think about it. The committee is looking into having some vintage sleds on display at convention.

MEMBERSHIP – JOE KNISELEY Current membership is up about 5,700. They are working with the youth on starting a social media platform to promote membership.

FUNDRAISING – DEAN WENDEL Reminded everyone to take some ACSA calendars and raffle tickets home with them.

SCHOLARSHIP – THERESA BRAUDT They received 44 scholarship applications for the 13 scholarships.

They are working to add an American Hero Scholarship for military personnel or spouse.

SNOWMOBILE FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES – LORI HEIDEMAN Don and Lori met with the renewing communities. They have five new applications and six renewals. Awards will be presented at convention.

AUDIT – WALLY THILL The audit committee met and all is in order. The committee is looking at different formats for the reports.

16 WSN - www.awsc.org

LEGISLATION – SAM LANDES Sam reported on their discussion regarding legislation to address the business signs issue. Much of it mirrored the comments from the Multi-use Committee. The committee discussed some of the details that would have to be included in the bill. Sam talked about changes we are looking at for the state budget. We have started discussions with members of Joint Finance to increase the amount available for county law enforcement and increase the cap on supplement.

SAFETY & EDUCATION – BRIAN WOELFEL Brian reported they discussed the need for proper helmets and neck braces for kids and how to find them. Anyone interested in becoming a safety instructor should contact their DNR Outdoor Skills Trainer. Current instructors need to make sure they are recertified before teaching their course.

YOUTH – KAOS MEMBERS KAOS camping weekend is August 11-13. Contact them if you would like to have one of them talk to your club. They will be holding a silent auction at convention.

There are many sources on the internet for purchasing youth snowmobile helmets. Tip: for real littles, explore full face bmx and downhill skiing helmets for their lightweight.

SLED REVIEW

indy vr1 is the one Four Decades in the Making, the Ultimate Polaris Indy Has Arrived

F

ew will argue that the Polaris Indy, which made its full production debut in model year 1981, will be remembered as one of the most significant snowmobiles ever. That TXL redefined the snowmobiling experience and the Polaris Indy would soon become the measuring stick for all trail performance snowmobiles for the next 15-years…maybe more.

Fast forward to the modern era and the latest Polaris platform dubbed the Matryx with its rider first ergonomics, and more specifically the Indy VR1, could quite possibly redefine the experience again. While we would argue that only a handful of modern-day snowmobiles have ever equaled the significance of that first independent suspension TXL, the Indy VR1 introduces an infusion of high-tech innovation and a refined ride quality that definitively rises above all contenders.

The Rider First Balancing Act Okay, we know that our opening salvo was a rather bold proclamation, but it’s one we feel the VR1 lives up to and here’s why. When you combine how Matryx engages the rider and makes you truly feel connected with the vehicle, and then add to this the advanced technology found on the VR1, you’ll soon find yourself smiling and nodding in agreement.

It starts with Matryx, a design that has pushed the rider forward envelope to a place of more comfort, more control, and perhaps most importantly more balance. Of course, Ski Doo gets the credit for rider forward, a design that also

dramatically changed the sport and snowmobile design. But with Matryx, Polaris has found the sweet spot. Where some rider forward designs end up being twitchy, require excessive rider input, or simply give you little ability to let your guard down and cruise, Matryx feels both relaxed yet incredibly in-tune with rider input. In other words, you can wick-up the pace and carve up a trail with razor precision, but still sit back, relax, and log hundreds of miles in complete comfort.

To be fair, it took Polaris several attempts before getting here. Early rider forward designs were half steps. The 2010 Pro-Ride got a lot closer, but to ride it fast on the trails, you had to work at it. That led to AXYS, which finally achieved a more balanced approach, and that was further refined with Matryx.

What is VR1?

Polaris tells us the acronym stands for Velocity Rider One, giving a nod to the rider first Matryx platform, and the performance attributes of the VR1 model. Delivering that performance are three different engine options including a new for 2023 turbo-charged 850.

Known by most as simply Boost, this smart turbo technology system builds power to a target and results in a level of acceleration that is nothing short of mind numbing. While we still feel the big bore Yamaha Sidewinder or Arctic Cat Thundercat will retain the speed crown, when it comes to acceleration, Boost requires a firm grip.

Lost in the hoopla of Boost is the 650 Patriot, our choice as the best trail power on snow. If you have any past February 2023 17

SLED REVIEW experience with the “old” 600 Cleanfire, the new 650 is even better. Where the 600 was always happy, the 650 Patriot is ecstatic. Smooth, powerful, with a quick revving nature for acceleration that will give any big bore fits from corner to corner.

Technology, the Star of the Show We could ramble on for several paragraphs and tell you about the compliance, control, and the comfort of the VR1 suspension. We could also give you a deep dive on how this suspension was proven on the racetrack – both snocross and cross-country, and then refined for the trail with premium Walker Evans Velocity shocks. While the XCR is built for hard-charging, big bump fanatics, the VR1 is the far superior choice for both hard-core and long-distance trail riders who value control and comfort for all-day riding.

Running board technology has been improved by leaps and bounds since the days of flat aluminum flaps that would become clogged with snow and ice. The latest Polaris “boards” clean out nicely and offer plenty of grip.

On the backside of this 7S display, new NightBlade headlights bring LED, projector beam technology to the snow. Riding after the sun goes down is all too common for Midwest trail riders. With the six projector beam optics found in the NightBlade headlamp, you can beat back the darkness with white hot beam that reaches far down the trail. You can even bolster the system with accessory LED lights for even better lighting.

Ultimate Comes with a Price

While storage for more “modern” sleds has been delegated to accessory options, the Polaris Matryx platform does offer under seat storage.

It’s no secret, snowmobile pricing has been a hot topic of discussion the past several seasons. No manufacturer is immune to rising costs and these pains are reflected in everyone’s MSRP. As a top-of-the-line model, the VR1 commands a top-of-the-line price tag. However, if you choose 650 Patriot power and opt for a pull-start versus electric, you can secure the VR1 for under $16K and still enjoy all of the ride quality, comfort and technology that makes this sled the ultimate Indy.

But the real star of the VR1 package is the technology of Ride Command all found nestled inside the oversized 7S display. Offering full-color, touch-screen connectivity, this is an automotive level gauge with the most robust GPS mapping system on snow. With Ride Command you can plan, track, share your ride, keep track of others in your group, view trail maps, and more, all without cell service. While there are now other newcomers to the GPS mapping scene, Polaris has been refining this technology for nearly 10-years, and when it comes to technology…time and refinement matter.

Within this high-tech gauge system, you’ll find the Polaris SmartWarmer system, a fully customizable hand and thumb warmer that allows you to set target temperatures. Using a thermostat within the bar ends, the system then heats to the target. With a max setting of 158-degrees, we can attest SmartWarmer has kept our digits warm and comfortable even when riding in minus 25-degree Fahrenheit conditions.

18 WSN - www.awsc.org

When Matryx arrived, so too did a new left hand throttle block that allows you to control some of the most used functions of the 7S display and Ride Command map.

YOU’LL NEVER WIN AGAINST A GROOMER SAFERIDERSSAFETYAWARENESS.ORG

W

ith the early onset of heavy snowfalls across the Midwest, there are an increasing number of accident reports on snowmobiles having run-ins with groomers out on the trail.

Let me tell ya folks, this isn’t rocket science – the groomer is going to win every time if you hit it, so let’s not panic, utilize some patience and pay attention to your surroundings to eliminate these run-ins.

Here’s a few safety tips: ALWAYS YIELD – YOU’RE SMALLER Snowmobiles are much smaller and much more maneuverable than groomers, so always yield to trail grooming equipment. Always slow down when approaching or overtaking grooming equipment.

Understand that groomers move very slowly—typically only 5 to 8 miles per hour—so they are almost stationary compared to a snowmobile traveling at 30-60mph.

HOW TO APPROACH A GROOMER ON TRAIL When approaching an oncoming groomer on the trail, slow down and move your snowmobile to the far right side of the trail. Realize that the grooming drag or tiller behind the grooming tractor is very wide, may extend wider than the tracks of the tractor, and may take up most or all of the trail’s width. If the trail is narrow or winding, you may need to stop at the far outside edge of the trail, or even off it, to allow the groomer to pass.

HOW TO APPROACH A GROOMER FROM BEHIND When overtaking a groomer from the rear, slow down and assess the situation ahead. If there is good sight distance and the trail ahead is clear of oncoming traffic, pass the groomer while operating with caution. Beware that the groomer may create snow dust and make visibility poor as you pass it. If the trail is narrow or winding, you may need to stay behind the groomer until the operator pulls over and signals for you to pass. Be patient since it may take quite a bit of time before there is a good location with sufficient room for you to safely pass.

HOW TO STOP A GROOMER FOR ASSISTANCE If you need to stop a groomer to ask the operator for information or assistance, understand this should be done only in an area where there is good sight distance and is safe for it to stop. The groomer operator may instruct you to follow the groomer to a safer location where he can safely stop to provide the assistance you need.

February 2023 19

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VINTAGE

1973

Alouette Super

and the

G

Magic of Villeneuve

illes Villeneuve’s records showed he was born January 18, 1952, but he was actually born in 1950. He lied about his birthdate thinking at one point his actual age would negatively impact his career as a racer. It seems Gilles was born to go fast, and his father Seville claimed he had no fear, and “always made everything he drove go as fast as it would go.”

When Gilles’ father bought a snowmobile, it didn’t take long before he was racing it in communities around his hometown of Berthierville, Quebec. He did well, and for the 1968-69 winter season, family friend Gilles Ferland loaned him a modified Skiroule to race. He won a handful of races and the next year was hired by the Skiroule factory as a driver/mechanic on their Quebec racing team. In the fall of 1970, Skiroule told him his services were no longer needed.

In October of 1970, shortly after he was let go from Skiroule, he

22 WSN - www.awsc.org

Story: Jim Urquhart Photos: Pat Bourgeois

married his long-time girlfriend Joann. He then signed to race with Motoski for the 1970-71 season, and racing became the sole means of support for his new family. He brought in enough to live, winning the championship in Quebec and taking a World Series title in New York, but with a child on the way, he wanted and needed more.

For the 1971-72 season, Gilles signed with Montreal-based Alouette.

The Alouette sleds were fast, but not as reliable as other competitive sleds. Still, he won 10 of 14 races in Quebec and was champion again, more due to his mechanical aptitude and riding ability than the quality of the Alouette.

Heading into the 1972-73 season, Gilles’ success the year before garnered the attention of the Alouette race shop and he was called in to help develop their new race sled, the Alouette Super.

Weighing just 240-pounds, the Super featured a lightweight aluminum tunnel, no belly pan and a unique hood design.

Alouette used Sachs engines which were heavier than some of its competition, but they made good power and Gilles was used to clutching and tuning them from his time on Skiroule. Based on Sno*Jet’s Thunderjet, the Alouette Supers were nearly complete by the time Gilles was called in, but his input proved valuable and they incorporated some of his feedback into the sleds before they were shipped to racers.

Alouette Supers and Villeneuve proved a formidable combination.

Despite an unreliable ignition system early on and the machines propensity for blowing belts, they were as fast as anything else on the track that season. And with Villeneuve’s tuning his machines, they were usually faster. Figure in Gilles’ fearlessness and talent behind the bars and it all added up to an Eagle River World Championship. The Villeneuve-tuned Alouette Supers were so good that Gilles would be competitive even two years later riding the same machines.

But while Villeneuve was racing sleds in the winter, he was spending his summers working his way through the ranks of open wheel

February 2023 23

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racing. While competing in Formula Atlantic in 1976 he found himself up against an all-star grid of drivers invited to race at Trois Rivieres, including James Hunt, who had all but locked up the Formula 1 World Championship that season, and Alan Jones, who would go on to win the Formula 1 World Championship in 1980. Villeneuve beat them all, and Hunt returned to his McLaren team headquarters telling everyone about the amazing Canadian driver.

McLaren signed Villeneuve to drive for the team in 1977, but eventually let him go. He was quickly snatched up by Ferrari and drove the final two races of the 1977 season for the team. Over the course of his Formula 1 career, he would claim six wins in his 67 starts beginning in 1976 until his death as a result of a crash while qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix on May 8, 1982.

Villeneuve continued to race snowmobiles off and on until 1981, and what was likely his final weekend aboard any sort of race sled when he flew in from Europe, defying Ferrari’s orders not to do any extracurricular racing, and rode various Moto Skis (which were owned by Ski-Doo by that time) at an oval race in Quebec.

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©2022 Polaris Industries Inc. Photographed using highly skilled professional operators under controlled conditions. Polaris recommends that all riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride.

24 WSN - www.awsc.org

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2/21/22 9:28 AM

DID YOU KNOW ?

Submitted By: AWSC Vintage & History Committee

Did You Know Ski-Doo T’NT stood for Track N Trail?

S

ki-Doo’s T’NT rode on a modified Super 370 chassis that had been strengthened to hold the new beefier engine. There was an angle iron in the engine mount area, stronger ski legs and a spreader bar in the back to strengthen the tunnel.

Helmut Roteh, was the designer of the 600 as head of Rotax’s R&D department. It was an axial fan cooled design with the fan mounted at cylinder level and driven by a V-belt from the flywheel. The 599cc engine had a bore of 2x76mm and stroke of 66mm, creating 35 hp at 6,000 rpm in stock form and 45 hp at 6,800 rpm when modified.

The Rotax engine was the first to be specially designed for a snowmobile, as earlier powerplants were adaptations of industrial engines, mostly water pumps.

T’NTs set the stage for all 2-cylinder engines and sleds to follow. Its windshield was angled the same as the hood for a sleek aero look and its designer came up with the Black Dot headlight, a retractable light set in a black dot on the sleek hood.

There also were fiberglass air scoops on the body’s sides and a black stripe that gave it a trim, racy look, especially combined with the Black Dot headlight.

The seat was leaner too with no seat-back, just a hump.

After its successful racing debut, Ski-Doo followed in 1969 with T’NT 399 and 669 models, boasting 30 and 45 horsepower, respectively.

Built strictly for racers and shipped to dealers for the 1968 race season, sled historian Phil Mickelson says only 117 were made.

Fullerton believes even less than that, maybe as few as 50, and less than a dozen are known to still exist.

This rare breed was to be sold only to racers and then returned to, and sold back to, the dealers or distributors. Bombardier worried competitors would get their hands on the 600cc engine and copy it.

The 1968 T’NT is a very rare sled because Bombardier only produced 125 of these.

Two models were produced for 1969, a 399cc and a 669cc machine. In 1970, the line was expanded to five models. 1978 was the last year for the T’NT.

Wherever the trail leads, there’s an AmericInn nearby waiting to offer you friendly service and a comfortable and quiet night’s sleep.

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THE LATEST INFORMATION ON THE

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CLUB NEWS DENMARK NORSEMEN DEDICATE BRIDGE IN BOLT SUBMITTED BY: BRANDON WOTACHEK

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CATALYST ZR R-XC 600

To learn more scan the QR code or go to arcticcat.com/snow/catalyst

he Denmark Norsemen Snowmobile Club has dedicated the snowmobile bridge in Bolt (Kewaunee County) on the Corridor Trail 26 to Chuck Chada, the “Unofficial Mayor of Bolt” and longtime member of the Norsemen Snowmobile Club since 1971. For over 50 years, Chuck has been involved with all aspects of the club, especially with maintaining our trails within Kewaunee County. He’s worked with landowners to marking and brushing trails. Chuck is still very active in our club and this bridge dedication and associated sign are well deserved. The Denmark Norsemen Snowmobile Club has 80 members and maintains 52 miles of snowmobile trails in parts of Brown, Kewaunee and Manitowoc Counties. Over the past 10 years our club has replaced/rebuilt six bridges like the one pictured. If you find yourself in southwestern Kewaunee County, be sure to take the Corridor Trail 26 between Denmark and Tisch Mills and you will find yourself traveling through the rural hamlet of Bolt.

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26 WSN - www.awsc.org

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CLUB NEWS NORTHPORT SNOWRIDERS HONOR JASON STEINGRABER SUBMITTED BY KRIS CLARK NORTHPORTSNOWRIDERS.ORG

R

ecently signs have gone up in Waupaca County on a portion of the Northport Snowriders trail system in memory of Jason Steingraber who passed away from an unexpected heart attack this past August. Jason and his family have been longstanding supporters of the local snowmobile club.

(L-R) Kerri Steingraber, Chris Lessor (President), Dan Wilfuer, Mark Casey (Trail Boss)

When obtaining permission for the use of their land again, it was mentioned the family would like to make a donation to our club from a memorial fund set up in his name. We were able to use the donation to purchase the food and drinks for our Snowmobile Safety Course held in early December.

The family has allowed a snowmobile trail to cross their land for over 20 years and Jason’s mother, Shirley, noted she has always enjoyed watching the snowmobiles go by. The generous donation solidified thoughts of how a good relationship between landowners, trail bosses and the community, can be beneficial for clubs everywhere.

The club collectively decided to have signs posted in memory of Jason Steingraber and were presented and placed on the trail

December 18, 2022. Photos show members of the club with Jason’s wife, Kerri and the rest of his family attended the presentation of the signs that day.

February 2023 27

EVENTS FEBRUARY 4: Clear Lake, WI. Clear Lake Ditch Dusters Annual Fund Raiser, Speakeasy On Main, 527 3rd Ave, 6pm – Midnight, raffles, Milwaukee tools, guns, ice fishing items, cash sales, music and beverages, Kelly / 715-222-4194 / Facebook 4: Crandon, WI. Lumberjack Memorial Trails Meat Raffle, Poker Run and Raffle Draw. Charlie’s Lake Megtonga Resort, 4163 E Lakeview St, Noon – 6pm, Brent / 920-379-2164 / LMTSnowmobiletrails.org / FB: Lumberjack Memorial Trails-LMT 4: Ellsworth, WI. Rush River Trail Riders Snow Days 2023, RRTR Club House, N4775 450th St, 10am-4pm, refreshments and food all day, events for kids, Snowmobile Show, Ride 11am and 1pm, bucket raffles and big raffle, Charlene / 612-751-8156 / charlenetuck@gmail.com 4: Hortonville, WI. Polar Bear Riders radar run on Black Otter Lake, 1000ft ice track, 8am - 3pm, Food and drinks available, Hopper / 920-716-5043 4: Jefferson, WI. Jefferson Snowstormers Annual Meat Raffle, Fairview Sports Bar, 711 W Racine St, 1pm, Brenda / 920-988-7655 / jskaife@ sbcglobal.net / FB Jefferson Snowstormers 4: Ladysmith, WI. Ladysmith Driftbusters Snowmobile Club Chili & Pulled Port Feed, J & S Supper Club, W9594 US 8, On Trail #12/27, 10am-3pm, Dennis / 715-570-7050 4: Tomahawk, WI. Harshaw Wanderers SC Meat Madness and More! Twin Bay, 2173 County Road L, 4-6pm, raffles include meat, beer, booze, apparel, cash, gift cards, etc. Everyone is welcome, harshawwanderers45@gmail.com / FB Harshaw Wanderers 4: Pulaski, WI. Chase Sno Chasers Winter Raffle Bash, South Chase Saloon, 494 County Road C, 4pm-7pm, On the day of the event there will be several basket & bucket raffles, Jeremy / 920-619-7825 / webmaster@ chasesnochasers.org / chasesnochasers.org 4: Stetsonville, WI. Tired Iron Vintage Riders Snowmobile Show & Ride, Centennial Community Center, 412 E Centennial Ave, Registration 8:30-11am, Trail Ride 1pm, Awards 3pm, Food and refreshments, Leon / 715-427-5441 or Jesse 608-516-3669 / FB: TiredIronVintage Riderssnowmobile club.

5: Medford, WI. Tired Iron Vintage Riders SC – Earl Emmerich Memorial Vintage Snowmobile (Jalopy) Ride, Cindy’s Bar & Grill, 7958 WI 64, 1pm – 5pm, Leon / 715-427-5441 / FB: Tired Iron Vintage Riders-Snowmobile Club 11: Fall River, WI. SnoHoppers of Doylestown Lazy Lake Radar Run, Lazy Lake, 7am Signup – 8:30 Racing, FB: Lazy Lake Radar Run 11: Hayward, WI. Sno-Trails Snowmobile Club Mystery/Fun Run, 10am - 4pm, Stops include Chief Lake Lodge, Trails Ends and Beechmoor, Fun scavenger/puzzle solving day, Jody / 612-991-0494 / gemmer21@yahoo. com OR Suse / 630-408-1185 / suse101@comcast.net 11: Medford, WI. We Whittlesey Whizzers 50th Anniversary Celebration, Groomer Shed, N5081 Bens Ln, Noon - 4pm, On M Trail Just east of Corridor 23, food, refreshments, raffles and reminiscing, Angie / 715-5601711 or Dave / 715-965-6166 / FB: We Whittlesey Whizzers Snowmobile Club 11: Pickerel, WI. Tombstone Pickerel SC Annual Chili Ride In, Club House, N9398 County Rod DD, 3pm – 6pm, Free chili, hot dogs and desserts, raffle baskets, Marg / 920-676-7504 / tombstonepickerelsnoclub@gmail.com 11: Island Lake, WI. Neighborly Sno-Goers Snowmobile Club Chicken Dinner at Shep’s Northshore Bay & Campground, N1033 WI 40, Trail #31/ Hwy 40, Noon-4pm, Jason / 715-595-3047 11: Sharon, WI. Meat Raffle and Annual Winter Raffle at Pat’s Brew & Que, 6pm, Public Invited 11: Three Lakes, WI. Three Lakes -Brule River Trails Gun Raffle and Meat Raffle. Spiritview Lakeside, 1426 WI 32, 3pm-6pm, food, drinks, clothing available, Gerri / 262-844-9037 / gerri-odrow@att.net / Facebook 11: Tomahawk, WI. Northwoods Passage Snowmobile Club Inc. Smooth Trail Fund Raffle – Sled Raffle. Somo Lake Resort, N10750 Somo Lake Dr, Noon - 5pm, Drawing 4pm for 2023 Ski-Doo MXZ 600, Hamburger & Brat Cookout, Games and Prizes, Lori / 715-966-4385 / secretarynwp@gmail. com 28 WSN - www.awsc.org

11: Winter, WI. Winter Huskies 20th Annual Big Boys Toys Vintage Ride, Winter Huskies Groomer Shed, 9am-6pm, Twenty mile round trip ride, Food at halfway point and chicken dinner with trophies and door prizes upon return to groomer shed, Mitch Chermak / Dale Biesel / 651-303-5940 / 715-661-1294 / FB: WinterHuskies 11: Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Kellner Knights Radar Run Fundraiser, Anchor Bay Bar and Grill, 3460 N Biron Dr, 9am-5pm, Registration 9am-2pm, Racing 10am-3pm, One run for $5.00 or three runs for $10 12: Hager City, WI. Bay City Bluff Busters Meat Raffle, Bluffs Bar & Grill, N1833 785th St., Meat Raffle 2pm, Roger / 715-495-8836.

12: Manitowish, WI. Manitowish Waters Sno-Skeeters Snowmobile Breakfast Fundraiser at The Pea Patch, Downtown Hwy W, 8am - Noon 12: Unity, WI. Rip Riders SC Pancake Breakfast, Unity American Legion, 233 W 2nd St, 8am - 1pm, pancakes, sausage, eggs, Brenda / 715-212-5886 / riprider52@gmail.com 18: Bruce, WI. Blue Hills Trailblazers Annual Fundraiser at the Bruce Fire Hall, 100 West River Avenue, 11am-4pm, food and raffles, Bob / 715-4155995 18: Caroline, WI. Four Dams Snowgoers Snowmobile Club Run for Fun Vintage Ride & Show, Blue 52, W12850 County Rd M, Registration 10am, Troy / 715-851-2272 or Jerry / 715-203-5755 / FB: Four Dams Snowgoers 18: Coloma,WI. Coloma Pathfinders, Inc Radar Run on Pleasant Lake Boat Landing, 9am – 4pm, Kitty Kat Race Noon, Trophies, Mike / 715-572-1354 / FB: Coloma Pathfinders, Inc 18: Hager City, WI. Bay City Bluff Busters Vintage Show & Ride, Bluffs Bar & Grill, N1833 785th St, Registration 9am-11am, 10 mile ride leaving at Noon, trophies, Roger / 715-495-8836 18: Manitowish Waters, WI. 22nd Annual Manitowish Sno-Skeeters Winter Rendezvous, Groomer Barn, Airport Rd (behind Town Hall – Hwy 51), 9:30am-6:30pm, Music, Food and refreshments, raffles include Ice Auger, Snow Blower, TV, Generator, 2023 Arctic Cat ZR8000, Hole in one contest and hockey accuracy contest, kids games, groomer rides 18-19: Manawa, WI. Symco Trailblazers & Wolf River Rangers Manawa Snodeo, Bear Lake Resort, N4715 Hwy 22/110, Manawa, 4 snow/ice tracks racing simultaneously. Lakecross (slalom), USSA ProStar Series Ice oval racing, Radar Runs 1000’, WI Kitty Kat Championship, Motorcycles, Mini Bikes, Barrel Racing and Ice Car/Truck Drags. Vintage Snowmobile Show, Hot Air Balloons, Sky Diving, $20/day or $30/weekend, manawasnodeo. org or 920-470-1417 19: Three Lakes, WI. Northern lights snowmobile club annual trail side weenie roast, Trail number eight at the Bailey Lake horse trail parking lot, about 4 miles east of Big Stone Lake. 11am – 2pm, John / 920-901-2472 19: Lowell, WI. Lowell Trackmaster 40th Lumberjack Breakfast, VFW 280 Soputh St, 8am-Noon, Facebook 23: Glidden, WI. Glidden SnoBears Toilet Seat Races Fund Raiser, Alley behind Glidden Fire Department, 11am-3pm, Registration 11am – Races Noon, Chili/Soup cookoff 1pm - 3pm, Chinese Raffle Noon - 2pm, Meat Raffle 1pm, Jeff / 715-264-6242 or Bob / 608-852-7436 25: Amery, WI. Amery Snowmobile Club Vintage Ride & Show with Trailside Cook Out, Amery Snowmobile Club warming Shack at the Cat Tail Trail Head Parking Lot, Vintage Ride 9:30am, non vintage sleds are welcome with $10 donation per sled, Short 2-4 Miles, Medium 6-8 Miles, Long 24 Miles, Awards, trailside lunch, kids downhill sled races and prizes, Bob / 715-494-0442 / RSVP amerysnowmobileclub.com 25: Fremont, WI. Metz Ridge Runners, Inc Winterfest. American Legion Auxiliary – Unit 391, 322 Waupaca St, 2pm-8pm, live music, raffle baskets, 50/50 raffle, chili cook-off and food, Deborah / 847-421-7939 / metzridgerunnersinc.org 25: Hayward, WI. Sno-Trails Snowmobile Club Heckler’s Hill, Meet at Twin Lakes Tap for breakfast 8:30am, Ride to Heckler’s Hill and bring your cowbells, noise makers and have fun 25: Lake Tomahawk, WI. New-Tom Sno Fleas Vintage Ride and Show, Across from Shamrock Pub & Eatery, 7235 Bradley St (Hwy 47), 9am - 4pm, ride following to scenic overlook, games and raffles, World championship bogie wheel toss, Russ / 608-215-5023 / russ.edelburg@gmail.com 25: Loyal, WI. Loyal Sno Angels 8th Annual Vintage Snow & Ride, Loyal Sportsman Club, Chickadee Rd, 8am – 5pm, Kerry / 715-897-1835 / kerry.25@hotmail.com / FB: Loyalsnoangels.

25: Pulaski, WI. Chase Sno Chasers Stone Barn Vintage Snowmobile Show & Ride. Chase Stone Barn Park, 8246 County Road S, Registration 9am-11am, $5 donation for the first 2 sleds, no charge additional, Trophies 1pm, Vintage ride to follow, Food & Refreshments plus lost of parking, Jeremy / 920-619-7825 / webmaster@chasesnochasers.org / chasesnochasters.org 25: Sheldon, WI. Sheldon Rough Riders Snowmobile Club Brat Feed, Sheldon Community Center, W5594 Main St, 11am-3pm, Downtown Sheldon near Trail #99, raffles and refreshments, Ken / 715-214-5539 25: Three Lakes, WI. Three Lakes-Brule River Trails Junker Sled Races, Don Burnside Park, 6931 Stanzil St, 10am-3pm, selling food, beer, soda and clothing, Gerri / 262-844-9037 / gerri-odrow@att.net / Facebook 25: Tigerton, WI. Tiger Snowmobile Club Vintage Snowmobile Show, Tiger Snowmobile Club Shed, 601 W Alder Street, 8am, $3 per sled (free after 5), Food and Beverages, Raffle/Door Prizes, Delbert / 920-495-1043 25: Woodruff, WI. Minocqua Forest Riders Annual Snowmobile Raffle, Lakeland Powersports, 8844 WI-47, Noon - 7pm, Drawing 5pm 1st prize 2023 SkiDoo MXZ X-RS Snowmobile or $8,000 cash, 2nd Prize: Twoplace Triton Snowmobile Trailer with salt shield and tongue, 3rd prize $1,000 gift card for Lakeland Powersports, Eileen / 847-269-7429 / minocquaforestriders@gmail.com / minocquaforestriders.org

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3-4: Mountain, WI. Chute Pond Snowmobile Club Blast From The Past Ride & Vintage Show, Skinny Dave’s 12484 Hwy 32 & 64, Sled Raffle drawing March 4, Noon, Kevin / 920-373-8578 / chutepondsnowmobileclub.com 4: Conover, WI. Conover Sno-Buddies 4th Annual Poker Run Wrap Party, Twin Lake Pub, 3894 Twin Lake Rd,1pm-4pm, Get your game card at local area businesses. Ride the incredible trails to as many stops as you wish and then join us March 4th Draw Party, Raffle baskets, 50/50 drawings, food and more, Randy Remblake / 847-980-0349 / conoversnobuddies@gmail. com 4: Danbury, WI. Cozy Corner Trails, Inc Annual Booya, McGraw Lake Tavern, 34002 State Road 35, Noon – 5pm, raffles, drawings, booya!!! Sue Smedegard / 715-791-0082 / FB: Cozy Corner Trails 4: Harshaw, WI. Harshaw Wanderers SC Meat Madness and More!

Alpine, 8495 N Oneida Lake Dr, 4pm-6pm, raffles include meat, beer, booze, apparel, cash, gift cards, etc. Everyone is welcome! harshawwanderers45@gmail.com / FB: HarshawWanderers 4: Mukuwonago, WI. Kettle Moraine Riders SC Annual Fundraiser, Woody’s Corner Pub & Grill, W343 S10206 Hwy E, Noon-6pm, meat and bucket raffles, Located on the trail in Mukwonago with trailer parking at Woody’s, Robin / 414-412-0355 / FB: KMR Snowmobile Club

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N15921 Schubert N15921 Schubert Road Road - Galesville, WI 54630 greg@universaltruckequipment.com N15921 Schubert Schubert Road Road N15921 greg@universaltruckequipment.com greg@universaltruckequipment.com Galesville, WI 54630608.539.4600 greg@universaltruckequipment.com Galesville, WI 54630 54630 Road N15921 Schubert Galesville, WI greg@universaltruckequipment.com Greg@ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com www.ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com 608.539.4600 Galesville, WI 54630 www.ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com 608.539.4600 www.ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com 608.539.4600 www.ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com www.ultimatesnowgroomerdrags.com 608.539.4600

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2013 New Holland T7.190 w/soucy track kit 2013 Case Puma 215 w/soucy track kit 2016 Case Puma 165 w/soucy track kit 2006 New Holland TM130 Suretrac Swiderski Equipment Inc. N4660 US-45, Antigo, WI 54409

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WISCONSIN

CLUB FLASHBACK

BATAVIA HILL & GULLY RIDERS CELEBRATE 50 YEARS NKMSNOW.COM Submitted by Paul Hartmann – Hill & Gully Riders Trail master

T

he Batavia Hill & Gully Riders held a 50 year celebration party on April 22, 2022. Attendees were landowners, past and current members of the club with special invite guests. Mike Holden AWSC Director for Sheboygan County was in attendance to present the 50 year certificate to the club.

A plaque was presented to Bob Hartmann for 50 years of service with the club and last active charter member.

A memorial plaque was presented to the Eugene Bemis family honoring his 33 years as president of the club and Northern Kettle Moraine Snowmobile Association club rep for 40 years. (Eugene passed away in 2014) The Batavia Hill & Gully Riders club was formed on November 13, 1972 with the effort of local snowmobile enthusiasts.

They wanted to continue the trail making efforts with other newly formed clubs in the area. The trail system is located on Corridor 34 in the southwest corner of Sheboygan County with the small unincorporated town of Batavia as its center point. The club maintains 10 miles of funded and three miles of unfunded trails.

A milestone event for the club happened in the Fall of 2010 when a new 55 foot long bridge was installed spanning the Milwaukee River on the Corridor 34 trail just north of Silver Creek.

30 WSN - www.awsc.org

This bridge was funded from a DNR grant.

The club has 50 members today which is the largest in club history.

The club struggled in 1995 – 2000 with only six members until a recruiting effort was successful in rebuilding the membership.

The club has been contracting the grooming operations since 1994.

Prior to that, the club operated S&W Groomers with their first machine purchased in 1981 and second machine in 1985 equipped with a 65 HP Wisconsin Air Cooled engine and six foot grooming width. In the early years a home-made drag was pulled behind an Evinrude snowmobile own by Andy Herriges of Batavia who was the club’s first Trail Master.

The club held brat fry fundraisers for many years until 1987 when it switched over to a ticket raffle.

The club is a member of the Northern Kettle Moraine Snowmobile Association and website, nkmsnow.com, is used for trail opening and closing notifications.

Thank you to all landowners for trail access. No trails would exist without their willingness to allow trails across their property.

February 2022 31

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YAMAHASNOWMOBILES.COM

©2022 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Product Product and specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider on closed course under controlled conditions. Model shown with optional accessories. Always Always wear an approved helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Ride responsibly and always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvering, maneuvering, and respect others around you. Know the conditions. Observe all state and local laws. Don’t drink and ride.

YAMAHASNOWMOBILES.COM

©2022 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Product and specifications subject to change without notice. Professional rider on closed course under controlled conditions. Model shown with optional accessories. Always wear an approved helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Ride responsibly and always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvering, and respect others around you. Know the conditions. Observe all state and local laws. Don’t drink and ride.

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1/3/23 10:39 AM