Feature Article February 19, 2004
LAND O' LAKES NewsWeb HomeContact Us
Racers, start your engines
The 4th Annual Sharbot Lake Snow Drags snowmobile race is just about set to go, as a dedicated crew of volunteers is feverishly grooming the ice and snow courses into shape on the frozen lake.
Things didnt look so rosy when the Snow Drag crew started ploughing the snow off the ice last Sunday, however. Between a heavy layer of snow and the 20 inches of ice on the lake, were eight inches of water that had melted from the snow.
We knew we were in trouble with all that snow, Snow Drag organizer Gary Parks recalls, but I dont think we expected that much water. We cleared off the snow, and took advantage of cold nights and all day grooming on Monday & Tuesday, and the track started to look good. Well be ready for Saturday, unless we get three days of rain or something.
Nothing of that sort is projected for this week, although snow is possible late in the week, but nothing that should have a detrimental effect on the racing.
Once again this year, ice and snow racecourses are being set up, and a total of 200 to 300 snowmobile racers will come from near and far for the popular race, which draws well over a thousand spectators.
There will be a nominal $2 admission charge this year, and races will be starting between 10:30 and 11:00 am. The popular childrens class will be run sometime between 1 and 3 pm. The races should wrap up by 5 pm, and the festivities will continue at the Sharbot Lake Country Inn, where the trophy ceremonies will take place.
A team of 20 volunteers has been meeting weekly since early January to cover all the bases and put a successful event together. This year, the food concession will include burgers, Octoberfest sausages, pizza, coffee, hot chocolate, and other goodies.
The event is presented by the Oso Recreation Committee in conjunction with the Sharbot Lake Snow Riders as a fundraising venture, although with all the effort and expenses, it raises more community spirit than money.
Crews will be working day and night all week to prepare a smooth track for race day, and volunteers will be ready to put on great event for participants and spectators alike.
