With the number of snowmobiling enthusiasts rapidly growing on Prince Edward Island, it is no surprise that the first Atlantic Snowmobile Snow-Cross Championship will be held here from January 3-5, 1997. Organizers are hoping that snowmobilers from across the region will participate in this action-packed family weekend event.
Snow-Cross brings a unique skill to the sport of snowmobiling. The event is based on precision, skill and the handling of the snowmobile over a mile course of snow moguls and jumps, unlike other snowmobile events which are based on speed. Since the sport is relatively new in the Atlantic provinces, Ken Avann, President of the Canadian Snow-Cross Association, will be providing hands-on instruction for all participants prior to the competition. Organizers anticipate that this will be a great incentive for snowmobilers of all ages and skill to participate.
"Snowmobiling has become an important sport to Prince Edward Island. It can attract many tourists in the winter season to enjoy the first-class snowmobile trails and facilities the Island has to offer," says Wes MacAleer, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism. "By successfully marketing the Island's wide variety of winter activities, Islanders will benefit from increased economic activity at a traditionally slow period for tourism."
In addition to the Pro class division, where racers will compete for prize money in excess of $1,000, there will be Snow-Cross classes (based on snowmobile stock) as well as four speciality divisions: Pro, Women, Juniors (age 14-17) and Masters (40 years of age and over).
"The PEI Snowmobile Association has worked very hard to develop the Trans Provincial Trail," says Boyce Stevenson, PEI Snowmobile Association. "We are excited that this event will see PEI play host to a wide range of snowmobilers varying in skill, age and experience."
This action-packed weekend kicks-off with snow-cross seminars on Friday and Saturday, a race practice, trail rides and a dance on Saturday. The event winds up with the races and an Awards Ceremony on Sunday, January 5, 1997. All events will be held at Raceway Park in Oyster Bed Bridge. Between these events there will be trail rides, free Kitty Cat rides for children and social events.
Anyone wishing to participate can contact the Howard Johnson Dutch Inn at 1-800-915-4656 or Raceway Park at (902) 628-3819.