The Vermilion Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club hosted their 4th Annual Snowmobile Drag Races in conjunction with Straightline Snowmobile Racing Associate at the Vermilion Airport on February 11.
With glorious weather conditions for February, sixty-five registered racers from all over Alberta and Saskatchewan enjoyed the day of racing excitement. Straightline Snowmobile Racing Associate (SSRA) ran the sanctioned races with classes for professionals and amateurs. The event was family-friendly with racers of all ages and cash prizes were awarded to the finalist.
Vermilion Ridge Riders president, Warren Young was pleased with the day and the turnout. There were a broad array of sleds that attended, everything from a 120cc kids' sled to purpose-built mod sleds.
Twelve-year-old Sydney Waldorf attended the races to volunteer but was asked to participate in the races on a sled she had never ridden before, but that didn’t stop her from coming in 1st in one heat and 2nd in another for the junior division. It was her first time racing and said, “It was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed racing and I like the adrenaline from it.”
Also available at this year's event was a beer garden and concession which offered hot dogs, chili dogs, chili bowls, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and various beverages.
The event was also broadcast on 100.1 FM radio.
The Ridge Riders would like to thank the Town of Vermilion and the Vermilion Flying Club for allowing the use of the airport and the Vermilion Provincial Park for the use of a groomer. They would also like to thank the many sponsors of the event.