USXC 2017 Race program

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2017

TOUR PROGRAM

ZACH HERFINDAHL PRO STOCK CHAMP

FLOATATION ASSISTANCE SAFETY TECHNOLOGY

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WHAT'S INSIDE 10 14 14 16 18 20 24 28 32 36 40

CLICKED - PHOTOS FROM THE USXC WELCOME TO THE USXC USXC SPONSORS FEATURE SPONSORS THE VENUES RACE SLEDS ZACH HERFINDAHL RE WADENA RACE WEEKENDS TOM LAWRENCE USXC RIDERS

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OK, so, you just pull this cord and she winds up and goes?

USXC owner Brian Nelson proving that Bearcats never wear out.

“Soon young one, soon you will win ice races just like your father.�

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No matter how dark, how cold, how early or how late, the USXC crew always works hard to make sure things go smooth.

Bryce Saiger learns the real meaning of Terrain Domination.

Finally, all those hours on the rowing machine paid off for Cole Lian.

Dillan Dohrn is always up for a photo op.

Craig Ritzinger gets wet and wild at Snodeo.

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Snow dust and sunlight at the cross-country by Aaron Kennedy, USXC photographer.

Cross-country iron man Gabe Bunke going incognito while scouting the course.

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Give this guy a flag and a radio, put him to work!

Looks like Nels Wicklund found the limit at some point during the race.

The aftermath - looks like a hefty parts bill coming.

A rainbow in the snow dust behind the USXC Pro class at Snodeo.

Yep, nothin’ like kicking back on a snowbank and watchin’ some cross-country racin’.

What do you do when you run out of gas? Well, if you’re Ryan Trout you pull your sled across the line so you don’t get the dreaded DNF.

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THE USXC

USXC

cross-country snowmobile racing is in its fifth year of competition. The older I get, the quicker the years go by, so my advice is let’s enjoy every day and minute we can. As everyone knows mother nature hasn't been kind to the snowmobile industry the last two years. But, despite lack of snow, we were able to run seven of our eight events, which is the result of the hard work of our crew and everyone who works with USXC including sponsors, venues and manufacturers.

As a former professional racer, I can appreciate what it takes to compete. It takes a special kind of person to get up early in the morning on a cold January day and try and beat a bunch of racers down a frozen rough ditch. It takes a special person, one who knows the value of hard work and that hard work always trumps luck. A person that takes every situation, regardless of how bad it looks, and turns it into an advantage for them. I have noticed that most snowmobile racers have this mentality and, as a result, tend to be successful at whatever they do.

Headed into the 2017 season we have many people and organizations to thank. First, I would like to thank all the competitors who race with us. I especially enjoy watching the families who choose to spend their weekends racing together.

It shows that our sport is a great way for families to get out and enjoy Minnesota winters.

I would like to thank the USXC crew; we are extremely fortunate to have such a great hard working dedicated group. When

you encounter them say thank you. A kind word from a racer or crewmember goes a long way and often makes their day.

They’re up long before the race starts and in most cases, are still working long after the race is over.

I need to thank our sponsors as well.

Despite tough times in the industry, most have stuck with us, although a few, for whatever reason, have decided to trim budgets and cut our funding.

It’s important to thank our sponsors, purchase their products and remember them even after you’re done racing.

Finally, to all our participants, thank you! Enjoy the season, make some friends, and don‘t ride over your head. You will never win races sliding down the ditch on your helmet and we want everyone to go home safe. Know your limits, work hard and lets all enjoy the upcoming winter.

Best regards, Brian Nelson USXC Owner

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SPONSORS

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SPONSORS USXC Racing sponsors dedicate time, resources and support to help cross-country racing thrive and flourish.

USXC has a family of sponsors dedicated to furthering the sport of cross-country snowmobile racing. It is because of the support of the companies listed on these pages as well as others that we have a venue in which to participate, spectate and work in the world of cross-country snowmobile racing. Next time you shop, be sure to check out these companies first.

Seven Clans Casinos For over a decade Seven Clans Casinos has been a major sponsor of cross-country snowmobile racing, most importantly host to the I-500. In recent years Seven Clans has expanded from two casinos (Thief River Falls and Warroad) to three with its new facility in Red Lake. For 2014-2015, Seven Clans will support three major USXC events - the Seven Clans Warroad 100, Seven Clans 300 Challenge Cup in Thief River Falls and of course the Winnipeg to Wilma I-500. Not only does Seven Clans support cross-country snowmobile racing, their casinos offer great family getaways year-round. Hotel, dining, family fun activities and of course some of the best gambling in the state are found at Seven Clans Casinos. Find out more at www. sevenclanscasino.com.

Arctic Cat A loyal supporter of cross-country snowmobile racing, Arctic Cat has played a key role in growing the sport over the past decade. The brand has set aside a significant chunk of its race and engineering budget to focus on racing this particular genre and is a big supporter of USXC racing. Arctic Cat Inc., based in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, designs, engineers, manufactures and markets snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and Side by Sides under the Arctic Cat brand name, as well as related parts, garments and accessories. The Company markets its products through a network of independent dealers located throughout the contiguous United States and Canada, and through distributors representing dealers in Alaska, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and other international markets. The Arctic Cat brand name is among the most widely recognized and respected names in the snowmobile, ATV and Side by Side industry. See the lineup at www.arcticcat.com.

Country Cat Country Cat was founded in 1991 by Dave and Mark Wanderscheid. Just 16 and 20-years-old at the time, the brothers built the dealership into what it is today - the largest Arctic Cat dealership in the nation. From new machines to its vast selection of parts and accessories to its online store, Country Cat is a full-service dealer. www.countrycat.com

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Nelson International Nelson International is a family of international truck dealerships based in Minnesota and North Dakota. Nelson International features a large inventory of trucks and strives to ensure the customer leaves satisfied. Nelson International offers new and used trucks as well as leasing and rental options. www.nelsonleasing.com Woody’s Based in Hope, Michigan, Woody’s Traction has been at the forefront of snowmobile traction and snowmobile racing since the 1960s.

A loyal supporter of USXC cross-country racing, Woody’s has stepped up as a significant sponsor of the Winnipeg to Wilma I-500 race in addition to offering their normal sponsorship support. Woody's is the trademarked name of IEM's private label traction devices and is the choice worldwide of motorsports accessory distributors, snowmobile and track manufacturers, offroad vehicles, racing champions, sportsmen and snowmobilers who want the very best in traction performance and safety. Find out more at www.woodystraction.com.

C-TEC2 Synthetic Oil Formulated with the highest-quality synthetic base stocks, C-TEC2 Synthetic Oil is specifically-formulated to work in Arctic Cat snowmobiles equipped with C-TEC2 engines. Developed in conjunction with the C-TEC2 engine, C-TEC2 Synthetic Oil provides superior engine lubrication and is the best cold-starting oil on the market.

West Central For the past 40 years West Central has been dedicated to helping agribusiness succeed. Based in Willmar, Minnesota, West Central offers services to local farms at a wholesale level including crop protection sales, crop nutrient sales and logistics. West Central believes that in agribusiness, people do business with people, not companies. They know the only way to have trusting relationships with customers is to compete on their behalf. Learn more at www.westcentralinc.com.

Polaris Engineered VES Synthetic Polaris Engineered VES Synthetic oil is engineered to provide top-level lubrication for Polaris engines equipped with exhaust valves. Engineered in parallel with the engines in which it is designed to work, Polaris Engineered VES Synthetic keeps exhaust valves clean and functioning while offering easy cold starting and cold flow properties. Polaris Engineered VES Synthetic is the first, best choice for Polaris snowmobiles.

C&A Pro Skis The choice of racers and trail riders worldwide, C&A Pro Skis have been proven to work better than any other ski on the market. With a full lineup of skis that match any riding style, C&A Pro is the best choice for whatever riding you have planned. They are the No. 1 ski choice among USXC racers. Find out more at www.caproskis.net.

XPS 2-Stroke Synthetic Oil Ski-Doo’s E-TEC engine technology is one of the most sophisticated 2-stroke engine management systems on the planet. When developing the E-TEC engine with it’s “dry” crankcase design where fuel is injected directly in the cylinder, Ski-Doo found “regular” 2-stroke engine oils weren’t up to the task of lubricating the engine so they developed a new oil, XPS 2-Stroke Synthetic. XPS 2-Stroke Synthetic oil was proven to work by Ski-Doo engineers who spent millions of dollars and thousands of man hours in the process.

Polaris With a racing tradition steeped in cross-country, Polaris is a big supporter of USXC racing. Polaris employees are not only building and designing machines, they are also enthusiastic riders and you’ll regularly find them competing on the USXC circuit. This gives Polaris a competitive edge as they work to make their customers’ riding experience better. Learn more at www.polaris.com.

Ski Doo Founded in Valcourt, Quebec, in 1942, it wasn’t long after that when J. Armand Bombardier took to the snow with the first versions of Ski-Doo snowmobiles. Since then, Ski-Doo has been dedicated to making its machines the bet on snow and crosscountry racing has played a big role in achieving that goal. Today, in the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific, more than 6,500 people are keeping the spirit alive in all of BRP’s recreational vehicles and products. Find out more at www.skidoo.com.

Yamaha Generators One of the world’s largest and most innovative motorsport companies, Yamaha is known for its industryleading engine development and ground-breaking product lines.

Yamaha’s lineup of quiet, fuel-efficient generators are available in virtually every power level a job demands. Yamaha’s goal is to satisfy its customers and exceed their expectations with products and services of superior quality, unmatched performance, and extraordinary value. Learn more at www.yamahamotorsports.com.

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VENUES The communities that host USXC cross-country events are critical to the success of cross-country snowmobile racing. Event hosts often donate time, resources and volunteer hours to ensure racers have a safe, well-organized place to race and spend a weekend. It is because of these groups and communities that USXC is able to provide a place for racers to compete.

GERALD DYRDAHL MEMORIAL PINE LAKE 200 JANUARY 7-8, 2017 Gonvick, Minnesota Pine Lake marks the traditional start to the cross-country season. The lake gets ice early, making it a no-brainer for an early ice lemans event. Named after the father of five-time I-500 winner Bryan Dyrdahl, the Gerald Dyrdahl Memorial is where machines get shaken down and the tone of the season is set.

DETROIT LAKES J&K BEACH BAR 200 JANUARY 14-15, 2017 Detroit Lakes, Minnesota Set near the downtown of Western Minnesota’s vacation mecca Detroit Lakes, the J&K Beach Bar 200 is the second stop on the schedule and the second ice lemans event. Things even out here as riders settle in with their machines and setups. This fan-friendly event is run right alongside Highway 10, making for easy access.

PARK RAPIDS 106 JANUARY 21-22, 2017 Park Rapids, Minnesota Low snow forced a format change last season, putting riders on the ice once again.

However, the event is intended to be a combination race featuring terrain and ice, making setup a compromise. Park Rapids is fast becoming one of the favorites on the USXC schedule.

SEVEN CLANS TRF 250

JANUARY 28-29, 2017 Thief River Falls, Minnesota

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Run along some of the past I-500 routes, the Seven Clans TRF 250 is a mix of ditchline, woods and river. This area is home to Arctic Cat, and most of the terrain is well-known by its riders. However, many USXC riders have become familiar with the terrain, evening out the playing field between brands.

SEVEN CLANS WINNIPEG TO WILLMAR I-600

FEBRUARY 8-11, 2017 Winnipeg to Willmar A colossal endeavor, the Seven Clans Winnipeg to Willmar I-600 will be the USXC’s version of the storied Winnipeg to St. Paul I-500. The granddaddy of all cross-country events, the Winnipeg to St. Paul, at its height in the 1970s, remains one of the largest and most grueling snowmobile races ever. Whoever wins the Seven Clans Winnipeg to Willmar I-600 will go down in the history books.

SEVEN CLANS WARROAD 200

FEBRUARY 25-26, 2017 Warroad, Minnesota Run on the banks of Lake of the Woods, the Seven Clans Warroad 200 combines lake running with varied terrain, making it a challenge for riders. Once the season capper, the Warroad race is favorite amongst riders because it is usually warm and features a lot of good snow.

NAYTAHWAUSH 200 MARCH 4-5, 2017 Naytahwaush, Minnesota In its second year, the Naytahwaush 200 takes place in and around the tiny town of Naytahwaush, Minnesota. With a vast expanse of wooded terrain and lake available to USXC course builders, it brings yet another setup challenge to riders. The final event of the season, it will be the event where champions are crowned.

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> 2017 RACE SLEDS

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ach year, snowmobile manufacturers enter competitions with the best snowmobiles they’ve built to date. The machines you see on the CSRA National racetracks represent the best technology in snowmobiling and are some of the fastest, most capable terrain machines on the planet. Here is a rundown of what you will see from each manufacturer in 2017.

SKI-DOO MXZ X-RS T he REV-X chassis that serves as the basis for Ski-Doo’s 2017 MXZ X-RS is virtually the same one found in the company’s full-on race sled. Ski-Doo’s cornering ability is one of its advantages thanks in part to the RAS 2 front suspension. Out back, the progressive-rate rMotion rear skid soaks up bumps with the best of its competition. Extra suspension reinforcements, a RipSaw II

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track and KYB shocks round out the suspension package. Maybe the most technologically-advanced engine on the circuit, the Rotax 600 H.O. E-TEC engine features direct fuel injection and a computercontrolled oiling system that feeds a “dry” crankcase in that no fuel flows through it. A driveshaft-mounted Brembo racing brake helps slow everything down.

> 2017 RACE SLEDS

YAMAHA SRVIPER R-TX SE Y amaha continues to maintain its racing focus on crosscountry, choosing to field its SRViper R-TX SE. Yamaha’s 4-stroke has proven powerful and reliable on the USXC circuit. Based on the Arctic Cat-derived chassis, the SRViper usesFOX Shox and Yamaha’s Dual Shock SR 129 rear suspension.

The 1049cc 4-Stroke engine has 600cc 2-Stroke performance numbers and will be able to use its torque to help power off the line. The engine uses Yamaha YVXC fuel injection and a high flow intake and exhaust design. Hayes brakes and slow everything down while a Rip Saw II track provides the bite.

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> 2017 RACE SLEDS

POLARIS 600 RUSH XCR B

ased on the lightweight AXYS chassis, the Polaris RUSH XCR is comprised of 93-percent new parts including an aluminum overstructure and race-ready IQR handlebars.

The AXYS moves riders forward vs. the old PRO RIDE chassis, which Polaris says will give riders more control by placing them in a “more balanced position.” More tangible improvements include a PRT Brake system that features a brake scoop for better cooling, and hi-temp Type 81 brake pads. The unique rear suspension

features a forged aluminum, redesigned rear crank and pivot, and the front torque arm has been moved rearward to control pitch, increase travel and improve rail profile. Walker Evans shocks handle the damping duties. The 600 Cleanfire engine is well-proven and reliable and includes an electronically-controlled oil pump. In addition to the IQR handlebars, riders will like the increased wind protection, performance seat and Interactive Digital Display which has GPS and mapping capability.

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> 2017 RACE SLEDS

ARCTIC CAT ZR 6000R XC W ith it’s 2017 contender, the ZR 6000R XC, Arctic Cat returns to USXC competition as the manufacturer to beat.

However, that does not mean Arctic Cat is content with last year’s machine. For 2017 the XC brings a host of changes and revisions including new plastic with improved venting, new cooling system with new tunnel design, improved chain tensioner and revised TEAM secondary clutch hardware for better durability.

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• SUPERCLAMP • NEW SUPERGLIDE WIDE • SUPERTRAC

Engineers addressed rider concerns, giving the seat a stronger mount, and making the hand warmers more durable. The chassis comes with extra bracing and suspension improvements include new front spindles and additional mounting holes for the front shock to accommodate ice racing. Riders also get a new lightweight, highstrength handlebar.

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INTERVIEW

ZACH HERFINDAHL THREE-TIME USXC PRO STOCK CHAMPION

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raditionally, cross-country rewards experience. Legendary riders such as Hibbert, Pake, Struthers and Wolff didn’t reach their zenith until their late 20s and early 30s. It’s rare for a young rider to enter the Pro class and win consistently, no less win championships.

But that’s exactly what Arctic Cat rider Zach Herfindahl did just three seasons ago when he won his first Pro Stock championship. The 2016 season marked the third championship in a row for the rider from Eagle River, Wisconsin.

We caught up with him to see how he prepares for racing, what he thinks of the I-600 and what it’s like to ride with a legend.

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OSM: You were Pro Stock champion last year, how does that feel?

Zach Herfindahl: That was our third in a row, and everything’s been going smooth.

It doesn’t get much better than how it’s been going the past couple years with the team and how the sled has been working.

It feels very good.

OSM: Right now it’s November, are you getting ready for the racing season?

Herfindahl: I’m planning to head to Fertile next weekend or the week after. I’ll help the crew put sleds together and get them prepped for the first race. I haven’t made any trips out West yet, the snow doesn’t sound all that great. Plus, we’re just getting our sleds right now, so maybe in the next few weeks I’ll get out there but I’m guessing not. Depends on what the weather does too, if it gets cold here we won’t have to go anywhere.

OSM: What do you do for fun in the off-season?

Herfindahl: Well, yesterday I just got back from a trip, I was just out hunting. We have some land by Detroit Lakes and we spend a week hunting ducks and birds.

OSM: Last season was kind of a bummer with so little snow, how did it go for you in that regard?

Herfindahl: It seems like the snow conditions are always tough, but USXC does a good job pulling everything off.

We had quite a few ice races and the ditch races we did have worked really well. It was better than I think most people thought. It was a little harder on equipment, but not bad.

OSM: Do you prefer ice racing or terrain?

Herfindahl: I really like the ice. I’m better in the ditch, but I enjoy ice racing because

INTERVIEW

ZACH HERFINDAHL

it’s such tight racing. I guess I’d have to say I’m 50/50 on that one. I like how USXC has more or less half and half, it makes for a good mix.

OSM: What would you say was the highlight from last season for you?

Herfindahl: The Thief River 300-mile race, Wes Selby and I were pretty much nose to tail for about 290-miles and I passed him within the last five miles. I couldn’t get around him. I was right on his tail both days and finally got him right before the finish line.

OSM: Are you ready for the Winnipeg to Willmar race?

Herfindahl: I’m ready for it, I’m just praying for snow! I’ve only been in two I-500s, so that’s one I haven’t had many good chances at winning. The Winnipeg to Willmar would be a huge one with it being the first year racing from Canada back into the U.S. I’ll be ready for it.

OSM: How do you prepare for cross-country racing?

Herfindahl: I ride road bike and try to get in the gym as much as I can. I spend more time doing endurance-type training since I’m on the sled for so long. I also ride motocross bikes as much as I can. That’s probably the closest thing you can do, but the trick there is to stay healthy.

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OSM: You are one of the riders Arctic Cat invites to test new machines. Tell us a good story about testing with the factory.

Herfindahl: We’ve had some guy have some pretty funny incidents on the sleds during our free time. But I guess the biggest highlight for me this year was working with Kirk Hibbert for like three days on the snocross sled. Working with him and seeing the knowledge that comes out of him, it’s unbelievable.

That was the highlight of all the engineering trips for me.

OSM: What are some changes to this year’s machine that might help you?

Herfindahl: Aerodynamics is a lot bigger factor for us than people think, especially in the ice races, so the new plastics should be a learning curve. But you can’t tell that until you get on the track. Otherwise I think the rest of the changes are for the better.

Everything looks pretty good for Arctic Cat. OSM: What are your goals for 2016?

Herfindahl: We plan to do the same things we’ve been doing.

The big thing is we want to get better on the ice, so we’ve been talking about that. Other than that, I’d like to win both the Pro Open and Pro Stock championships and finish up front at the Soo I-500 enduro.

RE WADENA CLIMBING TO THE TOP

Re

Wadena has been one of Yamaha’s top riders for the past four seasons. A veteran racer, Wadena has been knocking on the door of the elite cross-country world for more than a decade. While all-out success has eluded him, last season he narrowly missed wins in both Pro Stock and Pro Open, and he cracked the Top 5 in Pro Open points. We caught up with Wadena to find out where his program is headed, what drives him and how he narrowly missed winning the big one.

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OSM: What has it been like racing Yamaha for the past four years?

Re Wadena: It’s been really fun. The sled has a good torque curve, the fuel mileage is great. It’s a little bit heavier and a little bit harder to handle, but overall it’s a good sled.

OSM: You got some second place finishes last season, could you win on it?

Wadena: Oh yeah! For sure, especially on the ice. It always had good speed, it pulled well out of the corners, if you had a good setup you’d be able to compete.

OSM: What have you learned being involved with the factory program?

Wadena: Yamaha had a good program, they had a lot of factory support. I got to do a lot of hands-on with the sled and the chassis. I was able to help build it from the ground up with Brian Strawsell, Yamaha’s main race mechanic. I learned a lot racing with Yamaha.

OSM: You had a couple second place finishes last season, how did that go?

Wadena: Those races were right down to the wire and I had a lot of confidence on

R

Y R A N O I T U L EVO

RE WADENA the sled. Ice is kind of my favorite thing to do in cross-country. We had the sled handling really good and it was a little unfortunate we couldn’t put it all together and get a win.

OSM: What got you into snowmobile racing?

Wadena: I’m 32 and I’ve been racing since I was about 12-years-old. I raced snocross for a while but it was expensive to race the WSA circuit, so we raced the FANS circuit a lot. I got out of it in my early 20’s because I crashed and hurt my knee. I was on my own so I had to pay for everything myself so I couldn’t get a sled for about five years. Then I bought a Ski-Doo and did pretty well. The next year Yamaha picked me up.

OSM: You nearly won the I-500 in 2006, can you tell us about that?

Wadena: It was the last leg of the last day and Bryan Dyrdahl was leading but at one point he could only do like 45MPH because his clutch broke. I had a whole crew of people following me and I could tell something was going on because everyone was waving at me yelling, “Go!

Go!” It was a great feeling. Then I saw Brian Dick broke down and I passed him so I knew I was in the Top 2. That was only about three miles from the casino. I just missed catching Dyrdahl.

OSM: What advice would you give a young rider looking to go big in crosscountry?

Wadena: Keep looking forward, keep putting the work in and good things will happen. Hang in there and eventually the opportunities will come.

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OSM: At this point you don’t know what brand you will be on, but do you have any goals for 2017?

Wadena: Be consistent. Consistency is big in cross-country, and one of my goals has always been to try and finish every race. When you get your setup all figured out then it will come to you eventually. If I don’t race this year I’ll be chasing the KC Pro West circuit with my boy, he’s 8-yearsold and he wants to start racing.

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RACE WEEKENDS USXC

race weekends are my favorite weekends of the year. It is quality and fun time spent with my family and teammates, doing exactly what I love to do. Race weekends are exciting and exhausting at the same time, but they are what I live for, they are my life and I wouldn't change one minute of them.

As one weekend ends, the next one is already beginning. The race weekends become a blur, running into one another as my whole family maintains a single-minded focus on being ready when the next green flag drops. Preparation for each weekend starts with cleaning the entire race rig from top to bottom. That might seem like the

end to a weekend, but we consider it the start of the next weekend as that’s really when our race prep begins.

We start by going through each sled, fixing what's broken, finding what didn't work, figuring out how it can be faster, corner better, or get off the starting line quicker. Parts are ordered and repairs are made. Testing is done to make sure that every change equals faster and better.

Some weekends we have a terrain change from ice to ditch which means a completely new set up for every sled. Those weeks have the most work and the most time spent in the race shop.

By Thursday night no matter how the

by Cade Hayford

week went or how much time was needed in the shop, we are ready to load the trailer and take off at dawn the next day for the next race. Sometimes I ride to the race with my dad and teammate Dan, but that means missing a day of school. I have to decide each week if I need the day in school or the day on the track testing. If it were up to me, I would always pick testing but sometimes my mom picks for me and I end up staying in school. I have to keep my grades up to race and getting behind is not an option. If I stay behind for school, I ride with my mom and brother after the school day is over. If I don't get the day to test at the track, my dad always makes sure my

33

RACE WEEKENDS

sled is dialed in by the time I get there.

Friday evenings are spent in the race trailer making final changes and preparing for the next day's race. This is always a fun time to catch up with Alex Hetteen and Jill Tangen, the other two racers on our team. We discuss setup, what's working, and what's not. By this point the tiredness that you felt from the previous weekend has been completely replaced by the

34

adrenaline of the racing to come over the next two days. There is a lot of laughter and fun as we catch up, swap stories, and work on our sleds.

Saturday morning starts early. My dad and Dan get to the trailer long before dawn. I follow a little bit later and my mom and brother show up with breakfast just as daylight breaks. Most races start out with the Sport 600 class first. My dad,

Dan, and I all race that class so we gear up together and head out for staging and the drivers meeting.

I get really nervous before the start of every race. But once I am on the starting line and the flag drops, race mode takes over. Being out on the track and feeling the speed of my machine is awesome. The only thing I'm thinking about is the next corner, jump, or driveway approach and how am I going to hit it, how hard, how fast, when am I going to brake. It never stops until the race stops and you have to be ready.

The only time I start a race without feeling nervous is when I get to start on the line with my dad. We spend so much time testing and riding together that when I ride with him I feel completely comfortable. I trust being in that spot, racing with him. I push myself the hardest when I am riding with him because of that trust. My favorite moment in a race is when I am riding with my dad.

The one thought I always have in a race is finish; finish every race. That is one thing my dad always tells me. Ride to finish. So when I am out there thinking about each corner or approach, I am always thinking, make it to the end.

When I cross the finish line and take the checkered flag, my goal is to have left everything I had on the track. I usually only get one race the first day and can only improve with my final race on Sunday.

That becomes the focus as we compare notes from the race, track conditions, and machine performance. We start working on any adjustments that we think will get us ahead in the next day's race.

There is still a lot of racing left for the day, so I spend it watching the action and helping the rest of the team. One of the great things about racing is the people you spend your weekend with. Everyone shares the same passion for racing. So whether I am racing or just watching and cheering, I love it!

Once the racing is done for the day, the evening of adjustments and repairs begins.

We try to get supper in as a family and wrap things up early, but many Saturday nights are spent in the trailer long after we wish we had gone to bed. We finish out the night tired but excited for our final day of racing when we do it all over again.

The race weekend ends as the next weekend is already beginning. This is my snowmobile race season. I am lucky and blessed to be able to live the racing life; to have friends and team mates that share this same passion, and mostly to have my family along for the ride every race of the season.

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INTERVIEW

TOM LAWRENCE SKI-DOO’S CROSS-COUNTRY DIRECTOR

W

ith a resume littered with racing experience, Ski-Doo’s Tom Lawrence is a been there, done that guy in the snowmobile racing world.

A one-time tech inspector for the defunct ISOC cross-country circuit, Lawrence has seen and worked with some of the giants in cross-country racing. Today, as Ski-Doo’s Race Coordinator, Lawrence is one of the people who helps mold Ski-Doo’s overall race program and is the point person for the company’s USXC cross-country efforts. to the last name. Getting the second one to me showed it wasn’t just beginner’s luck.

36

OSM: You’ve just relocated; will that allow you to be more hands-on with SkiDoo’s cross-country program?

Tom Lawrence: I’m excited about my move back to Minnesota for many reasons, personal and professional. My new office will be more centrally located to many of the USXC events, and if my work schedule allows, it will give me the opportunity to attend more cross-country events.

OSM: Talk a little bit about Ski-Doo’s 2017 cross-country team.

Lawrence: Basically we will have the same group of riders as last year, with a couple of new additions. Corey Davidson and Dillan Dohrn will lead the team in the Pro

class. Craig Ritzinger, Timmy Kallock, Skyler Soyring, and Dustin Dohrn will be the front runners in Semi Pro and, one of the new people we’re excited about on the program, Andy Junglen, will be the fast guy in the Sport class. And of course, Jim Sobeck will race the Master and Veteran classes.

OSM: What are some of Ski-Doo’s short term and long term goals in cross-country?

Lawrence: Short term we’re preparing the team for the upcoming season. We are getting ready to test some different ideas and setups to be ready when winter finally arrives. Long term is to expand our team and help develop better equipment.

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37

TOM LAWRENCE years, and the shock and spring rule is still used in many forms of racing.

One other great memory was when I was asked to be the Race Director in 1999 for the I-500 by the FANS cross-country circuit. That year the race was in Warroad, Minnesota, and was sort of the precursor to what we’ve seen the last decade or so, with the race being run out of a central location and not point-to-point. Anyway, the request came three days before the event was supposed to start. I made a list of everything I knew and/or had experienced in cross-country racing, then categorized it into three areas, or, as I called it “The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly.”

The Ugly was stuff that we wanted to make sure didn’t happen. The Good was stuff we kept but needed to be blended together to work with the new event format. The Bad was the challenging part, because it was taking bad ideas, or ideas that had failed, and making them good.

The event was very successful and was named “Event of the Year” by Snow Week.

OSM: Do you approach cross-country differently than other forms of racing?

Lawrence: Absolutely! In many of the other race venues, the riders are only on the track for minutes, not hours. There is a lot of strategy involved in cross-country competition. Many times you are running against the clock and that is a mental game. Riders have to focus a lot longer and the terrain keeps changing.

OSM: Is there a key to success in cross-country?

Lawrence: To be successful, you need mental and physical stamina. And, as I tell my riders all the time, you have to bring the “Iron Horse” home. What that means is, take care of your equipment.

OSM: You’ve been around crosscountry for a few years, how have you seen it change? Has it gotten better or?

Lawrence: The biggest change is the sleds the riders are using. Technology has allowed the riders to go faster - not because of horsepower, but because of handling and rideability. Competition has gotten better because of it.

OSM: OK, let’s imagine you’re in charge of cross-country, what’s working, what do you change?

Lawrence: All in all, I feel things are working pretty good. But I would like to see more and longer events.

38

OSM: What are some of your best memories from being involved with cross-country in so many different roles?

Lawrence: One of the best memories was being asked to be the Tech Director by John Daniels for the newly created ISOC crosscountry circuit back in 1992. At the time, there weren’t any cross-country rules with ISR. I sat down and wrote rules that the manufacturers and ISR agreed upon. Two of the rules, I feel, changed the entire world of snowmobile racing. One was the 440 engine rule and the other was the open shock and spring rule. Many of the rules written back then are still used today. The 440 engine rule stayed the same for 16

OSM: As Ski-Doo’s Race Coordinator, what has been your biggest accomplishment in cross-country?

Lawrence: Keeping Bryan Dyrdahl happy!

Seriously, not really my accomplishment, but it makes me feel good when I’m at an awards banquet and a Ski-Doo rider gets to stand on the top of the podium. During my 16-years at Ski Doo, many riders have done it, and I will continue to work to make sure many more get to experience it.

OSM: What are the goals for your program this season?

Lawrence: For one of my riders to win a class championship and to win the I-600 event.

RIDERS

Cross-country racing requires terrain-reading skills, stamina and machine control not found in any other form of snowmobile racing. The USXC Pro class features some of the most elite terrain riders in snowmobiling and is the goal of every young cross-country riderHere are some of the Pros fans will see racing USXC events in 2016.

ZACH HERFINDAHL 312 Arctic Cat Home: Eagle River, Wisconsin The reigning king of USXC cross-country racing, Zach Herfindahl typically set the pace at each vent. With an innate ability not only to go fast over any type of terrain but to preserve his machine for the long haul, Herfindahl is the epitome of the modern cross-country snowmobile racer.

WES SELBY 15 Arctic Cat Home: Grand Lake, Colorado An Arctic Cat engineer by day, Wes Selby has the advantage of knowing the machine he is riding perhaps better than any other rider on the circuit.

That, combined with a lifetime of riding gained from growing up in the mountains of Colorado, makes him one of the fastest riders on the circuit.

COREY DAVIDSON 3 Ski-Doo Home: Holt, Minnesota A grizzled veteran of cross-country snowmobile racing, Corey Davidson has been racing longer than some of his competitors have been alive. A multi-time I-500 cross-country winner, Davidson uses his experience to his advantage, especially on the ice where he is one of the sport’s master riders.

AARON CHRISTENSEN 10 Polaris Home: Metiskow, Alberta

Fast and consistent, Aaron Christensen rarely takes chances when he rides. He doesn’t have to. His speed is tops in the sport. He’s also a master at sled setup and is always prepared when he shows up to an event.

BOBBY MENNE 131 Polaris Home: Virginia, Minnesota

5 Ski-Doo Home: Elgin, Minnesota A tenacious rider, no one has more fun on the USXC circuit than Dillan Dohrn. One of the USXC Pro class rising talents, Dohrn continues to find speed as his name climbs on the results sheets. Watch for Dohrn to log top finishes in 2017.

CHAD LIAN 681 Arctic Cat Home: Thief River Falls, Minnesota Chad Lian has been battling it out in the Pro class for years. He uses veteran savvy combined with riding skills gained from a lifetime riding terrain in northern Minnesota.

Lian shines most on the ice, and is a definite factor in lake races.

NICK JAHNKE

ROSS ERDMAN

45 Polaris Home: Johnson, Minnesota An up-and-comer in the USXC Pro class, Nick Jahnke was a standout Semi-Pro rider. He will be looking to build on a solid 2016 when he finished in the Top 10 in Pro Stock points.

311 Arctic Cat Home: Moorhead, Minnesota

CODY KALLOCK

The most recent cross-country standout in a family that has led cross-country for three generations, Bobby Menne continues to climb the ranks of the USXC pro class. A versatile rider, Menne uses his experience and dogged determination to win as his tools to take on the Pro class.

A veteran cross-country rider, Ross Erdman has experience on every sled brand and at every level of factory support. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the line and uses his experience to his advantage.

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DILLAN DOHRN

39 Arctic Cat Home: Oslo, Minnesota Cody Kallock comes from a family of snowmobile racers. He brings riding experience gained from growing up in northern Minnesota.

His abilities are well rounded and he’s equally as fast in the ditches as he is on the ice, making him a factor no matter the nature of the event.

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28 Polaris Home: Scandia, Minnesota

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Once a top Pro snocross racer, Justin Tate is perhaps the most well-rounded rider on the USXC circuit. The only regular participant with a Winter X Games gold medal on his resume, Tate is a natural snowmobiler and has the talent and ability to win on any given day.

RE WADENA 52 Yamaha Home: Moorhead, Minnesota Re Wadena brings a quiet, blue collar work aspect to race day. Fast and efficient, Wadena is a highly experienced rider and is a factor to win at any event, especially on the ice where he is one of the fastest Pros on the circuit.

GABE BUNKE 74 Polaris Home: Moorhead, Minnesota

Often considered the “Iron Man” of modern cross-country racing, Gabe Bunke is a tough, grizzled veteran and one of the fastest riders in the sport. His efficient riding style insures both he and his sled are as fast at the beginning of the race as they are at the end. He is always a factor whenever he is on track.

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Although mostly retired from cross-country racing, Brian Dick is a former I-500 and Pro cross-country points champion. An Arctic Cat engineer by day, perhaps no one is faster on either terrain or ice. If the 23 shows up it’s a good bet it will be at the top of the charts.

TAYLOR BUNKE 14 Polaris Home: Moorhead, Minnesota Son of USXC veteran Gabe Bunke, Taylor Bunke is fast becoming the Bunke to beat on the USXC circuit. With his father mentoring him and every bit of his inherited drive to win, watch for Bunke to post top finishes in 2017.

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LIMITED TIME OFFER. VISIT YOUR LOCAL DEALER OR T ERRAIN D OMINATION.COM/PROMOTIONS TODAY Offers valid on new 2014 – 2016 Polaris snowmobiles. On approved Polaris purchases. Minimum Payments required. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers, is subject to change and may be extended or terminated without further notice. Minimum Amounts Financed, Interest Charges, and penalties for accounts non current, may apply. Subject to credit approval. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Other financing offers are available. See your local dealer for details. Financing promotions void where prohibited. APR AS LOW AS 0% FOR 60 MONTHS* Monthly payments required. Valid on Amount Financed of $5,000 or more of select new untitled 2014 – 2016 Polaris snowmobile models made between November 1, 2016 and December 31, 2016 on your Polaris / Synchrony installment loan account. Model & year exclusions apply. Rate of 0%, 3.99%, or 5.99% will be assigned. Examples of monthly payments required over a 60-month term at a 0% rate: $16.67 per $1,000 financed; and at a 5.99% rate: $19.33 per $1,000 financed. Program minimum amount financed is $5,000 and 0% – 10% down payment required. Sales tax, registration fees, and dealer fees not included. Rate and down payment based on credit approval criteria. Offer is subject to credit approval by Synchrony Bank. The 2 Year Factory Warranty offer consists of a standard 1 year factory warranty plus an additional 1 years of additional factory warranty coverage. The additional factory warranty offer is subject to a $50.00 deductible per visit after the first year. All rebates are paid to the dealer. Valid atparticipating Polaris dealers only. Offers are valid between 11/1/2016 and 12/31/2016. Professional rider on a closed course. Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2016 Polaris Industries Inc.