PROVIDENCE BAY—The tremendous participation in the snow drag races, hosted by the Manitoulin Island Dirt Riders Association and held at Ralf Island Truck Parts this past weekend, has set the tone for organizers of the event to announce that plans are already being made for races to be held next winter as well.
“We had 110 racing entries for the races held this past Saturday,” said Rob Cranston, main organizer of the event. While the lack of snow in the area recently could have been a problem he said, “no, everything in the end was perfect. The track was good. Even the bigger machines at the end, up to 600 horse power, didn’t pose a problem. There was no problem with the race track.”
However, getting the track ready for the day long races wasn’t an easy task with the lack of snow around. “We spent three nights dragging the snow and had to bring in 100 loads of snow to build the track,” said Mr. Cranston.
“We had tried the first race day (held in February) and felt that if this turned out good we would do this second day of races,” said Mr. Cranston. “Next year we will be even more organized and (we) will probably hold races twice next winter.”
“Six of the riders were guys from southern Ontario who took part in the races,” said Mr. Cranston. “That is what I was after in doing this, because participants in the races spend money on gas, parts, food sales and those from out of town stay at motels. It helps everyone, which is what we wanted to see happen and it provides the kids with something to do.”
He noted that of the races to be held locally, one will probably take place in December, although dates haven’t yet been set. Mr. Cranston said the local races will be scheduled to not interfere around similar events being held close to the Manitoulin area, including snow drag race events being held in Sault Ste. Marie and Magnetawan.
Mr. Cranston stressed the great support the local Snow Drag Races are receiving. He pointed out at this past Saturday’s races, “we had a total of 18 sponsors helping out to hold the event.”
Please see next week’s Recorder for a list of this past Saturday’s race results.
