Twenty years sure goes in a flash, doesn’t it? It’s impossibly fast. That doesn’t just go for Father Time, of course. It also goes for the speed and high octane of snowmobile racing – and Saltcoats is the undisputable leader for everything that involved snowmobile racing, especially when it comes to classic racing hot rods with track and skiis.
The Saltcoats vintage snowmobile race started 20 years ago this year to help raise funds for the brave volunteer firefighters that risk their lives every day to make sure residents are safe. The event kicked off with a hearty pancake breakfast for all the racers, spectators, and their families, and then it was off to registration to get the big, beautiful classic sleds ready to race. For a reasonable $50 entry fee, racers got to show off their ride and their skills for a good cause.
There were races for kids, so the smaller sleds could test their mettle – and then the big race at 11:30 for all the adult sleds began. The race, which is over 100 miles of groomed track, really showed off the beauty of the colourful sleds. From classic Bombardier Ski-Doos from the late 1970s to Polaris sleds from the 1960s, every possible type of sled you could think of was on display.
In first place for the 100 mile race: Darin Tangedal. Not far behind was Ryan Iverson in second, followed by a solid 3rd place showing by Greg Kerr.
When they say vintage, they’re not kidding: vehicles from 1973 and older are the minimum requirements for the older class race. Some mild modifications are allowed – motors are permitted for substitution, so long as the motor itself is older than 1973. The clutch, however, is a no-touch zone to be sure. Original, 102 C, Comet 94c Duster or Power Block. The carb has to be original, or other diaphragm type, or a mikini of similar bore. The exhaust and muffler had to be original, or if a replacement, a stock replacement – which in such a case must be a can muffler. Tuners aren’t allowed, and cutting the muffler open is a surefire way to get you disqualified. Only point style ignition is allowed – so no CDIs – and you can forget about reed valves.
The rules could be seen in the authenticity of the race itself for the benefit of spectators – but the volunteer fire department, at the end of the day, were the real winners – as was the community they serve by having these brave firefighters around to keep them safe.
