trek over the top - alaska snowriderridealaska.com/issues/aksrdec2012.pdf · together during the...

D E C E M B E R 2 012

Trek over the Top

’Tis the season

MAKE A RUN FOR THE BORDER

A SLEDHEAD’S GIFT GUIDE

2 • Alaska SnowRider • December 2012 • www.RideAlaska.com

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L AY O U T A N D D E S I G N Dean Potter

G R A P H I C S Leo Grinberg

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Melissa ThayneAlaska Adventure Media

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E D I T O R I A L C O N TA C T John Woodbury

(907) 677-2900 [email protected]

Published by Alaska Adventure Media under exclusive written contract with the Alaska State Snowmobile Association. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by ASSA or Alaska Adventure Media of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.ADVERTISING RESPONSIBILITY: All advertisements are accepted and published by the Editor/Publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the Editor/Publisher/ agents harmless for any loss or expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any violation of right of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement.Contents of the Alaska SnowRider are not the official viewpoint of Alaska Adventure Media or their agents.Alaska SnowRider is the official publication of the Alaska State Snowmobile Association, P.O. Box 240405, Anchorage, AK, 99524-0405.Permission in writing from the publisher is required for any reprint or reproduction of this publication. ASSA and Alaska Adventure Media reserve the right to revise, edit or reject any advertisement or editorial.DEADLINES: All advertisements and news are due by the 10th of each month prior to publication.

www.AlaskaSnowRider.com

Kevin Hite ASSA President

A s I write this in November, I am looking out my window at grass still sticking out through the sparse

snow cover. Each snowflake is cause to run to the window and see how much accumu-lation is stacking up. Unfortunately, to this point, grass is still visible. After completing the rainforest summer and fall we had, the crossed-finger forecast was for another win-ter like 2011-2012. Tons of snow blessed us last fall and didn’t quit until springtime. We are a bit behind this season, but my money is still on Mother Nature remembering we are in Alaska, and once she quits tormenting those Lower 48 whiners, we will back trying to remember where we stacked all the snow last season.

I don’t have to remind most folks in our chosen recreational field, but most snowmo-bilers are gear heads and equipment lovers. When we travel to our cabin on Friday nights during the season, we generally pull in and begin the unloading process. Cool-ers, food, and beverages that we packed for a long weekend are dumped into the cabin in the general proximity of the kitchen. Then as Cindy begins the process of sorting and putting things in their place, I solemnly an-nounce that I will begin the arduous process of moving snow away from the cabin and clearing the footpaths for outhouse and shed access. For some reason she rolls her eyes at this point and goes back to work. Now for those who have been to our place, it has a big open area that we keep open to turn trucks around and park visitor trailers. The first year we had this place, we basically

drove the truck around as much as pos-sible and kept the “yard” tamped down for access.

The first piece of equipment that I pro-cured for this task was a snow blower. We have a small driveway in town, so this was the first mechanical snow moving item I ever owned. It did a fabulous job of mov-ing snow from our new front parking spot until the night we drove out with a four foot dump waiting on us. Three hours of snowblowing later, we could get the truck to the cabin. Obviously there was a gap in my planning.

I was ready when the next season rolled around. I procured an old plow truck with an even older plow and staged it just with-

in the driveway access. I was ready for battle. It wasn’t pretty, but while Cindy was unpack-ing and getting the cabin ready for occupan-cy, I was in the cab of the truck slamming through snowdrifts at top speed. I mean, “Ar-duously moving snow away from the cabin and getting the footpaths in place….” The fact that Cindy could hear me howling and

Equipment evolutionHow to go from hauling coolers to getting plowed

Continued on page 30

On the cover: A Ski-Doo XP rider tears up some Talkeetna powder last year. Will this season’s snowfall even come close? That’s at the top of our holiday wish list here at SnowRider. JOHN WOODBURY

Volume 23, Number 2

Three hours of snowblowing later, we could get the truck to the cabin. Obviously there was a gap in my planning.


R iders on both sides of the border get a chance to ride and party together during the yearly Trek Over the Top. First pioneered by the Alaska Trailblazers in 1993, the Trek has since blossomed

into a four-day event that offers riders the chance to meet other rid-ers and whoop it up in Dawson City which, hasn’t changed much since the gold rush. The event is put on by the Alaska Trailblazers, Dawson City Sled Dawgs, and Klondike Visitors Association.

“We are neighbors after all,” says Paul Robitaille of the Klondike Visitors Association. “Obviously the ride is a huge part of it, but for a lot of these guys, it’s a social thing.” Maggie Brooks, a long-time Trekker who has done the run 16 or 17 times, agrees: “We get lots of long-lasting friendships out of that Trek and we look forward to it every year... to see people we don’t see for the rest of the year.”

You never know exactly what you’re going to get on the trail — every trip is different. Brooks describes temperature extremes of minus 50 F to 30 above, with all the trail conditions just as variable. Two things you can count on are great people and great views. “The trail itself is usually really nice. You get some views in the winter-time, up in the mountains, that you’d usually never get any other way,” said Brooks.

WElCoME to DaWson

R iders follow the Top of the World Highway from Tok, with a warming hut and gas stop in Chicken, and then on to Dawson City in the Yukon Territory. Then it’s time to party. “For people

that have never been here it’s really a carnival by night,” Robitaille explains. Dawson is such a manageable size, and so pedestrian-friendly, that you can walk anywhere: From the bar in your hotel to the bar across the street, to the casino, to the ex-brothel, to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Saloon. That’s a total of eight bars in three blocks, just in case you were wondering.

A lot of people say Dawson — the set for the “Gold Rush” reality television show — looks like the Alaska they imagined, and the city’s bylaws are written to retain the historic look. “It’s like walk-ing into the set of a Clint Eastwood movie,” Robitaille says. “We still have dirt streets, saloon doors on bars, flat-front buildings.” Old-timey entertainment matches the decor, from a live band with can-can dancers to the indescribably delightful Snowshoe Shufflers.

This year’s entertainment hadn’t been confirmed at press time, but Robitaille promises that with 2013 being the Trek’s 20th an-

The Trek Over the Top – which runs from Tok, Alaska to Dawson City, Yukon – features two runs and is slated for Feb. 28 and March 7 this season. JUSTIN MATLEYBy Lisa Maloney


niversary, “we want it to be the best run ever.” A good time in Dawson, with great food and entertainment, is guaranteed. (Your registration fees include six meals, gas, and three nights’ double-occupancy accommodations in one of two Dawson hotels. Single occupants pay an extra $125 Canadian for the privacy.)

DRaW, PaRtnER!

T he Trek also is a poker run, actually two poker runs in one. Riders draw their first cards for the long-distance run in Tok on Thursday, and get a final card when they return

on Sunday. The Dawson City Sled Dawgs also host a Saturday poker run in Dawson. The Dawson run usually starts and ends at the El Dorado Hotel but the route is different every year, so it could end up anywhere from out in the gold fields to the old Native settlement of Moosehide, about a kilometer downriver.

logistiCs

R obitaille says riders can plan on Dawson prices being roughly on par with Alaska: About $5 Canadian for a beer, and $10 to $15 Canadian for meals not covered by the reg-

istration fee. Most places in Dawson will take US dollars in a one-to-one trade for Canadian. Cigarettes, however, are a bit more expensive and liquor taxes are higher.

Riders should be aware the several items are not allowed on the trek including tow sleds, firearms, drugs, and alcohol. Alcohol can be purchased in Dawson, bringing it into Canada is not allowed.

this yEaR’s tREk is divided into two runs: The first run is February 28 to March 3; the second is March 7 to 10. Register online at www.trekoverthetop.com/. If you have questions or concerns, you can call the Klondike Visitors Association at 1-867-993-5575 and ask for Paul.

Top: Snowmachines line the streets of Dawson City during the two Trek runs, and riders crowd the bars, eateries and Diamond Tooth Gertie's dance hall during their time in the historic gold rush town along the Yukon River. JUSTIN MATLEY

Bottom: Diamond Tooth Gertie's is an authentic dance hall and gambling saloon, complete with games of chance and risque can-can dancers. JUSTIN MATLEY


TERRAIN

DOMINATION

*Offer subject to credit approval. Applies to the purchase of new 2013 and prior Polaris® models

until 12/31/2012. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers, is subject to change, and

may be extended or terminated without further notice. Terms up to 36 months available for

purchases based on credit-approval criteria. Fixed APR of 2.99%, 6.99%, or 9.99% will apply. An

example of monthly payments required on a 36-month term at 2.99% is $29.08 per $1,000

financed. An example of monthly payments required on a 36-month term at 9.99% APR is

$32.26 per $1,000 financed. See participating retailers for complete details and conditions.

Professional rider on a closed course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability.

Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride.

©2012 Polaris Industries Inc.

TerrainDomination.com

THE LINE OTHERS THOUGHT IMPOSSIBLE.

PARTS• SALES • SERVICE4908 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, Alaska

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You’ll have to clear Canadian customs in Dawson, so make sure you bring a valid passport. Helmets are mandatory in Canada, and if you have any convictions on your record, you’ll want to double-check how that could affect your travel either way.

The trail is mostly groomed; the Alaska Trailblazers handle it up to the Canadian border, and the Dawson City Sled Dawgs take it the rest of the way to Dawson.

Brooks, who rode sweep for years, has some advice of her own: Please don’t go if you’re not comfortable rid-ing faster than 40 mph. “It just makes it miserable for everybody,” she explains, because you’ll be obligating the sweeps to stay out for what amounts to a long, slow, and potentially very cold ride.

CoME PREPaRED

A s nicely as the groomed trail can be, problems can arise including side-hilling, sled breakdowns, cold and inclement weather, and wildlife encoun-

ters. “Sometimes it could be a little bit tricky,” Brooks explains, recounting the tale of rounding a corner to find a caribou standing right in her path, and the time a snowstorm moved in to obliterate the groomed tracks.

She recommends participants have at least a couple years of experience and a dependable machine, plus all the gear and spare parts you need.

“Come prepared,” she says. The faster you get to Dawson, the more “quality time” you’ll have in town.The groomed trail makes you want to go fast, but the breathtaking

scenery on the Trek will force you to linger. JUSTIN MATLEY


a Photo alBUM

“We get lots of long-

lasting friendships

out of the Trek and

we look forward to

it every year.”—Maggie Brooks

Dawson City is really

a carnival by night.”

— Paul Robitaille

PHOTOS BY JUSTIN MATLEY AND JOHN WOODBURY


sledheadgiftguide

How do you sHop for the

sledhead who has everything?

Last year we recommended spotting

and replacing worn-out pieces of

gear: Still a great idea. You can also

stock up on disposables you know

your favorite snowrider will use, like

duct tape and food. We polled shop-

keepers to find out what else is hot

this season, and here’s what they said.

Prices are subject to change, and your

odds of finding the same products at

multiple dealers are pretty good.

ego boostIf your favorite sledhead already has ev-

erything on this list, how about a GoPro? Many of your favorite sled dealers are Go Pro dealers too, including Hatcher Pass Polaris of Willow and Anchorage Yamaha. Even if your rider al-ready has a GoPro, you can trick that little cam-era out with a variety of body and sled mounts, chargers, cases, and BacPac LCD screens.

By Lisa Maloney


sledheadgiftguide the grand prize

Having an extra sled means you can bring a buddy along, so if it’s in your budget, consider two of the year’s hottest models. SnowGoer magazine named the Polaris 800 Pro-RMK 155 (left) its 2013 snowmobile of the year (MSRP $12,199), and at Performance Yamaha of Wasilla, they have Yamaha FX Nytro sleds (above) that can be supercharged without voiding the factory warranty. Budget around $18,000 for a supercharged ride, less dealer incentives and Yamaha discounts.

trick out their sledIf you’re buying for someone who already has a sled and

a full gear closet, you can always trick out their ride. Randy Bedard of Team CC recommends LinQ accessories for Ski-Doo’s new XM platform. This line of storage bags, fuel caddies, boxes and such attach quickly and securely to the chassis; Bedard describes the tool-free attachments as “super clean, super durable, super easy to use.” Prices will vary; plan around $125 for bags and jerrycans (right).


fill in the blanksIf you’re shopping for a beginner, all you have

to do is spot the empty place in their gear closet and fill it in. RJ Barenz, parts and accessories manager for Alaska Cycle Center, recommends a high-visibility Polaris Fly Racing Helmet ($290). The hi-vis orange is impossible to miss, but still has “a fantastic graphic.”

Don’t ride without eye protection: Lori Price of Marita Sea & Ski says military-grade anti-fog goggles are going fast ($109 to $160), and out at Wasilla Arctic Cat,

they finally have the wildly popular Scott 83X Safari facemask goggles in stock again.

More advanced riders may be interested in the Cycle Center’s MotorFist boots ($220), which actually let you feel the running boards beneath your feet. “You can jump back and forth and feel what’s going on,” Barenz explains, as opposed to clunky “moon-boot” footwear. These mountain-style boots are also waterproof and flexible, and have traction on the bottom.

sledhead gift guide

This combo will fit all Ski-Doo track lengths from 2008 to 2013. The custom-shaped fuel tank holds 3-1/4 gallons and the dry storage box offers over six gallons of storage capacity! Four stainless steel draw latches hold this combo firmly to your Ski-Doo but allows removal in just five seconds!

PowDer Keg inTroDuceS Their laTeST Dry STorage box anD Fuel conTainer combo For SKi-DooS.

more details: www.powderkegllc.com • Toll-Free (888) 758-7307


Open Sundays | C.O.D's Welcome! Mon - Fri: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday : 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

907-694-6700 • www.eagleriverpolarisarcticcat.com


HAPPY HOLIDAYS

EAGLE RIVER16770 Snowmobile Lane694-3200 • 800-694-9150

WASILLA491 S. Willow Street

357-3200 • 888-888-9555

Join us on Facebook

www.TeamCC.comMonday-Friday 9-6pm • Saturday 9-5pm • On-line 24/7

When you’ve got the coolest products in outdoor recreation, you want to show them off. That’s why Team CC is proud to carry full line of BRP products: SKI-DOO snowmachines and Can-Am ATV’s and Side-by-Sides. Come in today and see what our excitement is all about. Happy holidays from your Alaskan grown & family owned Team CC.

don’t ride nakedSledheads get mighty attached to their favorite gear, but there’s

always room for something new on the high-end range of things. Lori Price with Marita Sea & Ski says this year’s hot commodity in gear is waterproof, windproof, breathable Klim gear. Made for men, women and children, it suits everybody from the everyday rider to hardcore mountain riders. With prices up to $450 or $500 for a jacket or bibs, Price acknowledges that Klim can be a little spendy — but says it’s well worth the price because it’s a lifetime product. It doesn’t hurt that Klim actually looks good while you’re out there, too (right), and you can get smaller items like a ballcap or boxers starting around $19 or $20.

MotorFist’s gear is a little less expensive (think $220 and up for jackets, $300 and up for bibs, left) but still waterproof/windproof/breathable with a lifetime guarantee. We also got one mention for FXR’s winter clothing line, which is made of waterproof Cordura fabric that’s more breathable than Gore-Tex. Most MotorFist gear is good down to 40 below.

sledhead gift guide


By Jill Fredston and Doug Fesler

Edited by Karl Birkeland and Doug Chabot

A Guide To Evaluating Snow Avalanche Hazard

N E W E D I T I O N O F A B E S T S E L L I N G C L A S S I C

sledhead gift guide

save a life

Avalanches aren’t accidents. They’re the intersection of a series of risk factors that you can avoid or manage — as long as you know what you’re looking for — so a course in avalanche hazard evalua-tion and avalanche rescue could save your life, or those of your buddies. Sure, it might feel lame to be the one who says “let’s go back” or “let’s go the easy way,” but stay-ing alive feels even better (and lasts a lot longer if you do it right). Even if you’re not up for a full-on avalanche course (and you really should be), at least pick up the new edition of Snow Sense: A Guide to Evaluating Snow Avalanche Hazard by Jill Fredston and Doug Fesler.

Your brain will always be your most important piece of safety gear but, once you’ve got the brain trained up, you might need a little gear to go with it. Anchorage Yamaha has the easy-to-

use BCA Tracker 2 beacon ($299), and the folks at

Wasilla Arctic Cat recommend BCA avalanche air bags ($674), which can be reloaded for additional deployments after the first use.


SAFetY MAtteRS by Deb McGhan

F our-time Iron Dog Champion Dusty VanMeter knows a thing or two about driving snowmachines in tough conditions. I bumped into him at the Oxygen and Octane show in Anchor-

age in October and asked him to share one of his stories.He laughed and asked, “Which one? There are so many.”Because so many people are injured or killed in snowmachine

related accidents when crossing water, I thought that would be a good place to start.

“Yeah. Water. That’s a big one,” he said.He told about one of his most terrifying experiences while racing

along the coast toward Nome with partner Dan Zipay. “We were probably about four miles off shore and were just tear-

ing across the ice at 90 miles an hour the whole way without a prob-lem,” he said, “but when we were coming back everything changed.

“The weather was horrible. The wind was howling and you couldn’t see anything. We were right up against the shore at Moses Point and it was really rough. We were driving across these big wind drifts and chunks of ice and it was just really nasty so we talked and I said to Dan, why don’t we head out and try to find that trail we were on before? He agreed so we set out until I finally saw what looks like the trail blown in. But as soon as I turned on that trail the ice

just broke apart and my sled was hanging on the edge by one ski.”The machine was half in the water but still running and VanMe-

ter’s determination to save his sled kicked in. “I’ve got that never give up attitude so I just climbed up over the

machine and held on to it and shouted for Dan to come help. He had his lights shining out and could see white caps whipping across the water so he was shaking his head, ‘no way.’ I couldn’t see what was really going on so I anchored my sled the best I could and ran over to his sled, grabbed a rope, lay down on the ice and tied it to the spindle of my machine.

“Then I finally convinced him to come out and help me get the sled back up on the ice.”

The first pull got the machine far enough that both skis were now on the ice but the rest of the machine was still under the ice and about to get sucked into a watery grave.

“Dan’s shouting, ‘let it go,’ but I just couldn’t,” said VanMeter. “I wanted to give it just one more try, so after we pulled the machine as far as possible, I spread my body across the cowling and hit the gas. That was enough that the paddles on the back bit into the ice and got the machine back up on a more solid surface. I don’t know how, but luckily I managed to flip over and land on the seat and as soon as I

Beating the odds

Chris Olds provides hands-on skill training to snowmachine enthusiasts. DEBra MCGhan


Dec 16 Wasilla Lake Resort, Free Test & Tune

Dec 30 Wasilla Lake Resort, Points Race, Ice Oval

Jan 13 Wasilla Lake Resort, Points Race, Ice Oval

Jan 26 Wasilla Lake Resort, Points Race, Ice Oval Under The Night Lights

Feb 2 Willow Winter Carnival, No Points Sponsored by Hatcher Pass Polaris

Feb 10 Wasilla Lake Resort, Points Race, Ice Grand Prix

Feb 17 Big Lake With IRA, Points Race, Ice Grand Prix Sponsored by Big Lake Burkeshore Marina

Mar 10 Wasilla Lake Resort, Points Race, Ice Grand Prix

Mar 17 Big Rob Schachle 50 XC Memorial

& Memorial Fun Run, No points start at Big Lake Arctic Cat Mar 24 Big Lake Power Sport XC & Fun Run, No Points

May 10 End of Season Awards Banquet For All Racers

www.iceracingak.com

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had control of the machine I just started driving back toward shore.”VanMeter’s machine was still connected to Zipay’s with the rope

but they couldn’t stop, the ice was breaking apart all around them.“I look over and see that now he’s going down so we’re just trying

to drive in sync as fast as we can over this rough, broken ice to keep from jerking each other or going down together.”

VanMeter focused on saving his sled and didn’t really see what was happening around him.

“I admit we were really lucky because that could have turned out horrible. I have never been more afraid in my life and that’s one of the big reasons we always travel with a partner. I know I wouldn’t have made it without Dan.”

Two-time champion Chris Olds agrees traveling with a partner is important.

“Making sure you have a good trip plan and a dependable partner is key to a successful ride. The buddy system is a huge thing for me. We ride in a lot of remote places and if your machine breaks down, it won’t be a huge deal if you have a partner to help or carry you out if necessary.”

Olds also advises people to carry emergency supplies for fire building and constructing an emergency shelter.

“You have to be prepared for anything,” he reminds riders. “Plus

there is a lot of great technology available these days like Sat phones and the SPOT.”

SPOT is a portable satellite emergency transponder that can call in a rescue, ask for help from the immediate area, check in with designated contacts and track your progress on Google Maps. He said he now carries the SPOT with him and that one tool has given his wife a lot of peace of mind.

“Now I can just press the button and she’s able to follow me wherever I am and that has been a real comfort to her. Plus I know if something does go wrong, we can call for help instantly.”

Because losing a machine is a real danger, Olds also suggests gear be split between partners. “That way if one of you gets wet, you’ll have warm, dry clothes to change into. That’s especially important if you’re different sizes.”

Experience has also taught Olds that there are three or four main bolts that can be used for most everything on your sled.

“I recommend you always carry at least basic tools, spare belts, plugs and a few extra bolts. If something major breaks, like say you lose a ski, imagine how hard it would be to get back. But if you have a bolt in your bag that you can use to hold that broken ski in place, you’ll be able to get back and that could be a huge deal.”

This holiday season, beat the odds by getting the training you need to be prepared for your next adventure.

The North America Outdoor Institute will be hosting snowma-chine and avalanche safety courses this winter thanks to support from BRP/Skidoo, the Alaska Department of Public Safety and the Alaska Division of Parks, SnowTrack. To learn more or to register for a training program, visit us online at BeSnowSmart.org or call 907-376-2898.

“The ice just broke apart and my sled was hanging on the edge by one ski.”

— Dusty VanMeter


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avalanche Forecasting BeginsIf you’ve never been caught in an avalanche, odds are pretty

good that you know of someone who was. The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center (CNFAIC) aims to reduce those odds by increasing avalanche awareness for winter recre-ationists of all stripes. They offer daily avalanche forecasts for the Turnagain and Summit Lake areas, plus public education services. They can’t make all your hard backcountry decisions for you, but they’ll give you some of the tools you need to make your own smart decisions and live to ride another day.

Daily forecasting began on November 17th. Forecasts are posted each morning by 7 a.m. at www.cnfaic.org, or the phone hotline: (907) 754-2369. You can also get forecast information via Facebook (www.facebook.com/pages/Friends-of-the-Chugach-National-Forest-Avalanche-Information-Center/125249959341?ref=ts) or Twitter (twitter.com/CNFAvalanche).

Chugach national Forest Plan revisionsStarting in 2013, Chugach National Forest will begin revising

its forest plan under a new planning rule for the National Forest System.

From their PR staff: “The Forest intends to build on its tradition of public engagement and collaboration.” What this means for

you: Pay close attention to www.fs.usda.gov/chugach, where you’ll get the best information about how to participate in the planning process, just like last time around.

Changes Coming for SnowTraCBig changes may be coming to SnowTRAC. At press time, club

presidents and board members were scheduled to meet this month; the goal is to map out a consistent plan and message to be delivered to legislators, businesses, and other supporters. (If you can’t be a sledneck, be a sledneck supporter, right?)

ASSA president Kevin Hite describes “a pretty good consensus” among the major groups in favor of raising registration fees — a self-tax for the good of the community if you will. But that’s only going to happen if the biggest point of contention, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and its administration of the resulting funds, can be resolved.

Although Hite says the SnowTRAC program has “actually worked pretty well” thanks to diligent help from the legislature, its major shortcoming is inconsistency due to DNR turnover. Hite describes dealing with five or six different state parks directors, various trail coordinators, and dozens of other personnel since the program was instituted 15 years ago. There’s just no continuity, he says. “Every time I call over there I’m dealing with a new person.”

Right now, nobody in the state of Alaska is paid to advocate for snowmobilers or administer a comprehensive program; so one possible solution is creating a full-time snowmobile coordinator position. But first, club presidents and board members need to


come together and craft a plan they can all get behind.“There are a lot of different plans, great plans everyone would

like to see implemented,” Hite says, but the best route to success is mapping out a consistent, cohesive program that everyone feels comfortable promoting. That means taking fullest advantage of other models in the state and picking the minds of advisors had prior successes. “We’re going to try not to reinvent the wheel,” he said.

The ultimate goal is bringing in a million dol-lars a year, which “sounds like a lot of money,” Hite allows, “Until you try to spread it over the entire state.” Funds would go toward grooming, safety

programs, and so on. But for all that come about, a few things must happen: Consistency in administration of the funds, registration increases, and finally a line item grant from the legislature.

Want to be a part of the change? Get in touch with your club presidents for the latest developments, check your club websites for updates, check in with ASSA, and of course keep your eyes on SnowRider.

aMMC racing Lives!If you’re looking for AMMC Racing, you’ll find them at their

new digs in the web: ammcracing.org. Props to Rugged North Outfitter for building and donating the website. AMMC held elec-tions in mid-November -- a little too late for press time -- so check out their website for the results and racing updates.

new SledsIf you’re in the market for a new ride, we feature a couple of

great sleds in our gift guide section. But there’s more: Carl Sw-enson at Big Lake Arctic Cat, says all the updates to the 2013 line are done -- everything’s “running top-notch” and ready to go. In particular, look for the sporty, powerful 2013 XF CrossTour in the 800, 1100, and 1100 turbo. The Arctic Cat Sno Pro RR (800 or 1100 turbo) is also out, and the M and HCR series are available with a 2.6 lug track, the largest available from a manufacturer.

Over at Ski-Doo, they’ve got the 2013 Summit Rev on their new XM platform, with a tMotion rear suspension and flex track. The end result, says Randy Bedard with Team CC, is a machine that feels 40 pounds lighter and is much more maneuverable for off-trail riding. The Summit also has enlarged tunnel footboards to cut down on snow and ice buildup, new heated storage and mountain grab bar, and cleaned-up rider controls that are easier to access for you off-trail performance types.

Right now, nobody in the state of Alaska is paid to advocate for snowmobilers or administer a comprehensive program.


5520 Lake Otis Parkway, Suite 104, Anchorage, Alaska 99507

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avalanche Safety awareness Guidelines 1. Take an Avalanche Skills Training (AST) course.

2. Carry Avalanche Safety Equipment: Transceiver (beacon), shovel and probe – AND KNOW HOW TO USE THEM.

3. Check the Avalanche bulletin (plan your trip according to cur-rent conditions)

4. Don’t group up in terrain that is threatened from above; allow a wide margin of safety around avalanche run out zones.

5. Speak up when you see others grouping together in avalanche threatened areas.

6. Don’t tolerate fellow riders not being prepared with rescue gear.

7. Practice with your own rescue gear at least once a month. Good search and rescue technique saves lives. Focus on quick transceiver search, effective probing and efficient shoveling.

8. Match terrain selection to what the avalanche danger will allow. Read the bulletin and plan your day to avoid the avalanche prob-lems that are highlighted.

9. Understanding the type of avalanche problem is as important as knowing the danger rating. Example: managing Considerable Dan-ger due to a deep slab requires different technique than managing Considerable Danger due to wind slab.

10. Strategic shoveling saves valuable minutes. Learn the best shov-eling techniques. And carry a strong shovel that you have tested on HARD packed snow.

11. Post the Avalanche Bulletins on your Facebook page or garage door. Make sure your Dealer and friends get the Bulletins.

12. Know the terrain rating with the current danger rating. This provides you with good decision making guidance.

13. For current class offerings, other tips and snow conditions bul-letins, review www.avalanche.org.

Multi-Time Iron Dog Winners Scott Davis and Todd Palin Join Ski-Doo X-TeamBRP’s Ski-Doo X-Team has announced past winners Scott Davis

and Todd Palin will use Ski-Doo MX Z X E-TEC 600 models when they pair up once again for the Iron Dog race.

The Iron Dog Gold Rush Classic is an off-trail snowmobile race covering 3,200 km (2,000 miles) across Alaska. Seven-time winner Davis and four-time winner Palin have five top three finishes in their eight years as a team.

“We want every advantage we can get,” said Davis, “and BRP’s Continued on page 27


since 1984, the Iron Dog snowmachine race has attracted some pretty tough teams taking on the 2,000 mile-long battle for machine-driven supremacy in the Last Frontier. They have

to be tough; Iron Dog participants must ride the northern route of the Historic Iditarod Trail from Big Lake to Nome, and back to Fair-banks, battling challenging weather, balky sleds and temperatures as low as -50 F. Most compet-itors wouldn’t have it any other way, and early registration numbers for the 2013 race indicate more teams will be racing than in years past.

“In early drawings, we’re already exceeding the entire field we had last year,” said Kevin Kastner, Iron Dog’s executive director. “We could have 40 or more teams by the time we actually get to the starting line, and that would be a record.”

Certainly, famous faces like the Scott Davis-Todd Palin duo have ramped up popularity in past years, but the allure of Alaska is strong among Lower 48 contenders, especially now that Caine’s Quest, a Canadian staple among snow machine races, cancelled its 2013 event. Look for East Coast teams to make the long journey to Alaska, bring-ing high hopes packed along with spare parts and duct tape.

Iron Dog also encourages rural Alaska teams to register, says Kastner. With bush communities relying heavily upon snowma-chines for transportation much of the year, these folks should provide some worthy competition for the 2013 race.

“We’ve seen a real up-kick in rural involvement again,” said Kastner. “The team from Bethel is back again, and we also have Kiana, Kotzebue - a bunch of them.”

Once again doubling efforts with the Big Lake Winter Festival during Iron Dog Week-end, the events are slated for February 15-17, 2013. The race start is looking to be bigger and flashier, with entertainment, snowmachine stunts, food vendors, and a post-start grand prix by members of Ice Racing Alaska. Iron Dog is also showcasing 30th anniversary swag

for the whole family, available both online and at the Iron Dog tent on race weekend.

For more information about the Iron Dog Snowmachine race, visit www.irondograce.org; for information about the Big Lake Winter Festival, see www.biglakefestival.com.

— Erin Kirkland

Iron Dog celebrates 30th anniversaryThis years marks the 30th year of the Iron Dog, and the pros leave the ice at Big Lake on Feb. 17 , while the trail class heads out Feb. 15. JUSTIN MATLEY


(907) 677-2900 | [email protected]

More than 10,000 copies distributed statewide,

including up the entire Iron Dog race route

All glossy, all color pages

(907) 677-2900 | [email protected]

On the streets January 2013

Ad deadline: December 7, 2012

Mention this ad and receive further discounts on the Iron Dog and on any Adventure Media publication!

Contact your Alaska Adventure Media representative today!

Support the Iron Dog, your favorite team or favorite checkpoint with an ad in THE OFFICIAL AND EXCLUSIVE 2013 IRON DOG RACE GUIDE

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Ski-Doo sleds have the best combination of speed, durability and handling that can win this race.”

“The Rotax E-TEC engines proved last year that they bring a clear fuel mileage advantage while delivering the power you need to run at the front,” added Palin.

“We’re proud to have Scott and Todd join BRP’s Ski-Doo X-Team,” said Yves Leduc, vicepresident and general manager, North America division. “The Iron Dog race is a gruelling event and Ski-Doo snowmobiles with these two talented riders make a great match.”

For more information on Ski-Doo snowmobiles visit www.ski-doo.com.

For more Racing information check our On Track blog site or Ski-Doo Facebook page.

Drift racing is Full-Throttle for 2013 racing SeasonWhen the green flag drops on the 2013 snowmobile racing

season, DRIFT Racing will be on the gas and at the front thanks to a growing team of racers and crew. From its high-tech race wear to its ultra-warm jackets and pants, DRIFT gear will help its athletes reach the top in snocross, oval and cross-country with everything from grassroots Junior class riders to multi-World Champions.

“Racing and high-performance riding is built into the DNA of DRIFT Racing,” said Tom Schaefer, DRIFT Gear supervisor. “Our gear is inspired by the passion to win shared by all of our racing partners and fans.”

Look for the newest DRIFT Racing gear on these racers and teams in 2013:

Christian Bros. Racing –hits the snocross and cross-country circuits with huge talent and proven champions. As the ISOC Snocross Team of the Year, CBR is poised to be on the podium with pro’s Logan Christian and Garth Kaufman; Junior ripper Evan Christian; plus Tyler Adams, who is new to CBR for 2013 and notched a Junior class victory at last year’s Eagle River Snocross event.

The CBR cross-country juggernaut will return as the undisputed leaders this season, having captured five Pro 600 class victories (out of six) last season. They are led by two-time defending high point champion Ryan Simons and D.J. Ekre, and will be joined by newcomer Zach Herfindahl, who rose to the top of Semi Pro classes last season.

Stud Boy/Goodwin/DOOTalk Racing – New to the DRIFT Racing program this season, the Stud Boy/Goodwin/DOOTalk.com racing team combines leadership in traction and performance with top results in National and Regional snocross competition aboard Ski-Doo snowmobiles. Led by Pro Zach Pattyn and Pro Lite racer Nick Pattyn, the team will also include Brett Nastala, Garrett Goodwin, Jake Pattyn, Justin Sparpana and Caydence Sparpana.

Country Corners Racing – A force in the Canadian snocross and cross-country competition, the CCR team will fly DRIFT

Continued from page 24


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colors for 2013 with racers Cam Darling, Kristyn Darling, Bob Holmes, Ben Holmes, Todd Lightfoot, Taylar Lightfoot and Jamie McPhail.

P.J. Wanderscheid and Wanderscheid Racing – The only five-time Eagle River World’s Champion (and the original DRIFT racer) aims to defend his 2012 TLR Cup title and win the coveted 50th Anniversary World’s Championship. A huge fan favorite everywhere he goes, P.J. and the entire Wanderscheid Racing crew bring the passion and excitement to the highest level whenever they hit the oval track.

USXC Race Circuit – As the official outerwear sponsor of Unit-ed States X-Country, DRIFT Racing will have a strong presence at the new cross-country race circuit founded by snowmobile legend Brian Nelson. Likewise, top Semi-Pro racer Erik Bute will do battle in USXC in his second season aboard the DRIFT Racing program.

You’re invited to

Go Snowmobiling

with us!!!!

Take a Friend Snowmobiling

Share your story and photos on www.Facebook.com/GoSnowmobiling

Your story and photos could win you a new snowmobile!

Is it Alzheimer’s? NOVEMBER is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one and memory loss, this is the time to fi nd out. We can help you learn the difference between normal aging and dementia, starting points for diagnosis and where to turn for help.

FREE -STATEWIDE EVENTS going on all month: details at

AlzAlaska.org or (907) 561-3313

diagnosis and where to turn for help.


Alaska State Snowmobile

Association

P.O. BOX 240405

Anchorage, AK 99524-0405

1-888-8AK-SNOW

(1-888-825-7669) 566-0210

President

Kevin Hite

www.aksnow.org

PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

To encourage the formation of clubs statewide and promote good Sportsmanship, safe and responsible

use of snowmobiles

Sponsor enactment of favorable regulations concerning ownership and use of snowmobiles

Cooperate with Public Land Use Regulatory Agencies while reserving the right to oppose regulations deemed unfair or not in the best

interests of our members

Maintain a legislative committee to serve members statewide

Support the use of snowmobiles pertaining to an

individual's livelihood.

Support local search and rescue efforts

Recognize competition as an important part of recreational Snowmobiling and support such

competition.

The Association treasures the natural beauty of Alaska and values its natural resources; therefore

we will promote the protection of the environment from irrevocable harm.

2011-2012 Goals

The #1 goal for this season is increasing

both our member numbers as well as

participating clubs around Alaska. We will

be actively pursuing new board members

who represent a wide range of snowmobile

activities and regions.

ASSA will be participating in legal and

advisory boards that seek to develop a

statewide trails system.

We will also continue to be the main legal

resource and information clearinghouse for

the ongoing battle for statewide access for

motorized winter recreation in Alaska and

will develop constituent relationships that

benefit our organization.

ASSA will continue to monitor and offer

input to the Sno-Trac Board concerning

the allocation of Point of Sale Revenues.

Alaska State Snowmobile

Association

P.O. BOX 240405

Anchorage, AK 99524-0405

1-888-8AK-SNOW

(1-888-825-7669) 566-0210

President

Kevin Hite

www.aksnow.org

PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

To encourage the formation of clubs statewide and promote good Sportsmanship, safe and responsible

use of snowmobiles

Sponsor enactment of favorable regulations concerning ownership and use of snowmobiles

Cooperate with Public Land Use Regulatory Agencies while reserving the right to oppose regulations deemed unfair or not in the best

interests of our members

Maintain a legislative committee to serve members statewide

Support the use of snowmobiles pertaining to an

individual's livelihood.

Support local search and rescue efforts

Recognize competition as an important part of recreational Snowmobiling and support such

competition.

The Association treasures the natural beauty of Alaska and values its natural resources; therefore

we will promote the protection of the environment from irrevocable harm.

2011-2012 Goals

The #1 goal for this season is increasing

both our member numbers as well as

participating clubs around Alaska. We will

be actively pursuing new board members

who represent a wide range of snowmobile

activities and regions.

ASSA will be participating in legal and

advisory boards that seek to develop a

statewide trails system.

We will also continue to be the main legal

resource and information clearinghouse for

the ongoing battle for statewide access for

motorized winter recreation in Alaska and

will develop constituent relationships that

benefit our organization.

ASSA will continue to monitor and offer

input to the Sno-Trac Board concerning

the allocation of Point of Sale Revenues.

Recreational Snowmobiling is being threatened in Alaska. To retain access to your favorite places to ride and in order to represent snowmobilers' rights on statewide issues in Juneau, we need your support. We encourage every Alaskan Snowmobiler to: • Join Your Local Club- Be represented on Local Issues • Join your State Association- Be represented on State Issues • Register your snowmobile-it's the Law. These are the only numbers Federal, State and Local governmental officials will use for funding and access issues. An ASSA membership provides each Alaskan Snowmobiler with: • A subscription to the Nationally acclaimed Alaskan Snow Rider! • Eligibility for membership with Denali Alaska Federal Credit Union (Financing for that Snowmobile or Tow Vehicle!) • Insurance privileges through American Income Life • Representation on Statewide issues.

New Membership Renewal Membership

Name: ______________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________ City: ___________________State: _____________Zip: _____________ Phone: __________________E-Mail___________________________ ____Regular Membership-$20 per Season (October 1—Sept 30) ____Family Membership- (up to 4 People)- $35 per year ____Snowmobile Club-$50 Per Year ____ASSA Business Membership-$100 per Year

The Alaska State Snowmobile Association is not liable for personal Insurance. Therefore, I hereby release and discharge ASSA, its agents, and /or officers from any and all claims, demands, actions, judgements and executions which the below signed now have or may have in the future for themselves or for the below signed heirs, executors, administrators or assign for any and all personal injuries and property damage which have been caused by or may arise out of the participation of myself or my family in any ASSA Sponsored event. I, the below-signed, hereby acknowledge that have read this release and understand all of its terms. I execute it voluntarily with full knowledge of its significance.

Signature Date:

a s s a 2 0 1 2 - 1 3 M E M B E R s h i P F o R M2012-2013 Goals


share your events!Events are already taking

shape, and SnowRider is look-ing forward to staying ahead of the action and providing you with the latest and greatest expos, races, club rides and all-around snowmachine fun.

To ensure the SnowRider calendar keeps track of events for everyone, be sure to notify us of any event you or your club is holding. Submit online, www.ridealaska.com. Appropriate events will be approved for display in the online calendar and included in the printed calendar.

Enjoy!

DECEMBER

17: Chulitna Bluff Ride Curry Ridge Riders www.curryridgeriders.com

19: general Membership Anchorage Snowmobile Club www.anchoragesnowmobileclub.com

JanUaRy

16: general Membership Anchorage Snowmobile Club www.anchoragesnowmobileclub.com 21: south Denali Ride Curry Ridge Riders www.curryridgeriders.com

28: Peters hills Ride Curry Ridge Riders www.curryridgeriders.com last weekend in January: Wil-low Winter Carnival (weekend 1)Willow Area Community Organiza-tionwww.waco-ak.org

FEBRUaRy

First weekend in February: Wil-low Winter Carnival (weekend 2)Willow Area Community Organiza-tionwww.waco-ak.org

15: iron Dog Trail Class Race Start Iron Dogwww.irondog.org

17: iron Dog Pro Class Race Start Iron Dogwww.irondog.org 20: general Membership Anchorage Snowmobile Club www.anchoragesnowmobileclub.com

MaRCh

tentative 2-5: trek over the top – First run Alaska Trailblazerswww.alaskatrailblazers.com

3: kanikula glacier Ride Curry Ridge Riders www.curryridgeriders.com

tentative 9-12: trek over the top – Second run Alaska Trailblazerswww.alaskatrailblazers.com

20: general Membership Anchorage Snowmobile Club www.anchoragesnowmobileclub.com

aPRil 7: BBQ Curry Ridge Riders www.curryridgeriders.com

SnowRideR eventS LiSt

alaska MotoR MUshERsPO Box 871753 • Wasilla, AK, 99687Fax: 376-7966President: Wayne Devore

alaska tRailBlaZERsP.O. Box 36 • Tok, AK 99780883-7669

anChoRagE snoWMoBilE ClUBP.O. Box 232196 Anchorage, AK 99523Hotline: 566-0272anchoragesnowmobileclub.com

aURoRa intERnational inC.P.O. Box 520581 • Big Lake, AK 99652892-6372

CaRiBoU hills CaBin hoPPERsP.O. Box 375 • Clam Gulch, AK 99568252-1782

ChEEChako ski BEnDERsP.O. Box 834 • Kenai, AK 99611 • 283-7664

Chilkat snoWBURnERs inC.P.O. Box 870 • Haines, AK 99827Diane Lapham, 766-2503

CoPPER CoUntRysnoWMoBilE ClUB

HC 01 Box 300 • Gakona, AK 99586822-3440

CURRy RiDgE RiDERsP.O. Box 13218 • Trapper Creek, AK 99683Hotline: 689-7669 or 352-3669President: Randy [email protected]: www.curryridgeriders.com

DElta snoW sEEkERsP.O. Box 137Delta Junction, AK 99737Tom Waggoner, 895-4196

FaiRBanks snoW tRaVElERsP.O. Box 80053Fairbanks, AK 99708-0053479-4933

JUnEaU snoWMoBilE ClUBP.O. Box 32882 • Juneau, AK 99803723-8948

koDiak sno BRUinsBox 3492 • Kodiak, AK 99615486-3828

lakE loUisE snoWMaChinE ClUB

HC01 Box 1684BGlennallen, AK 99588Corky Mathews, 250-2098

Mat-sU MotoR MUshERsP.O. Box 876135Wasilla, AK 99687-6224

Mat-sU VintagE snoWMaChinE RaCERs ClUB

Email: [email protected] site: matsuvintageracers.comPresident: Craig Clayton, 232-7518

noRthERn lightssnoWMoBilE ClUB

2039 B Coman Dr.Eielson AFB, AK 99702David Lemelind, 372-2016

REsURRECtion snoW RiDERsP.O. Box 2132 • Seward, AK 99664224-3537

snoWMaDs oF hoMER& anChoR Point

P.O. Box 3646 • Homer, AK 99603 • 235-0771

ValDEZ snoWMaChinE ClUBP.O. Box 3689 • Valdez, AK 99686Laura Sax, 835-2373

StAtewide CLUBS

laughing as I mowed down alders and other assorted flora as I was moving snow didn’t really give me much of a break with the eye rolling thing. The snow blower was reassigned to clear the footpaths around the compound and is doing duty keeping the fire pit open. If I could figure out a way to plow to the outhouse at 30 miles per hour, I would, but the path between the cabin and the shed is too narrow to fit the truck. And it is within the field of fire of Cindy’s shotgun. Somehow my cackling irritates her during her unpacking ritual.

Outside our driveway is a set of real subdivision roads. Our homeowner’s association has a contract with a real snowplow guy with really nice equipment. Naturally, after making my place look as much like the Dimond Mall parking lot as I can, I drift out into the cul-de-sac (I can’t believe we have what passes as a cul-de-sac in Willow) and start cleaning up the route into our place. That turns into me royally screwing up the profes-sional plow job.

At some point, I really can’t tell due to the plowing/equip-ment high I am on, Cindy walks out and reminds me that a) the cabin is ready and I don’t have to put any groceries away b) it is very late at night and people are trying to sleep and c) as board members of our homeowners association, we really shouldn’t cause damage to the roads that we pay a guy to take care of…….She also never fails to get in a comment along the line of me not quitting my day job. Funny chick….

As usual, I can’t remember what started this rant, except that it had something to do with snowmobilers being equipment junkies. Doesn’t look like I made the argument that we aren’t. Oh well. If we only had some more snow, the alders would be a lot safer.

Hite, continued from page 4

ALASKA STATE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATIONP.O. BOX 240405, ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99524-0405 PRSRT STD

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

PERMIT #936ANCHORAGE, AK

trek over the top - alaska snowriderridealaska.com/issues/aksrdec2012.pdf · together during the...

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