Dick Peterson prepares to get intimate with the hay...

10/25/2004
NEW VIDEO!
Jeff Steinke sent in this really cool video of the hotly contested 340 Mod Free-air finals from the races in Beausejour last year - entitled "Who Will Be King?". The 340 free-air class was very close everywhere I saw it, with several racers able to battle it out for first.

This video includes some great footage of Dick Peterson flipping off his sled.Dick was not at all hurt in the spill. I had a chance to ask Dick about this spill. "I grabbed the wrongs gloves". Ouch. I'll bet he doesn't do that again!

The video also features Aaron Johnson, Mark Nurnburg (spelling?) and Mark Anderson. This clip will get your blood pumping. I've watched WAY too many times already! Mark Nurnberg holds off the Starfires and Twisters to bear Mark Anderson to the wire.

The video is in the Windows Media Player 7 format, so it should play on most Windows systems. It's a big file - 4.6 Megs - so on a slow connection it will take awhile to download.

Enjoy!

10/21/2004
RACING
I've added links to the rules and schedules for the various tracks and race associations. It's on the bottom of the Racing page.

10/20/2004
FIRST SNOW
Mark Tandy of Quincy California wins this years contest to see who send in the first photo of snowfall for the year.

First snow of the year - in California!

Last weekend I saw snow here in Minnesota - I think that's the earliest I remember it in recent years.

But snow in October - in California? Thanks for sharing Mr. Tande.

RACE RUMORS
Yep, there's more! Including Bill Stull may have to have a custom helmet to cover his hair, there really are some vintage professionals going racing this year, and more! Check it out in Racing.

VINTAGE SNOPRO MASTER SERIES
Update: Two sponsors have come forth to put up some prize money to the winner in the leaf spring class! Read more ->

EVENT PHOTOS
Hank Briscoe was cool enough to send in this link, showing the photos and results from the Blast From The Past Show in New York.

SLEDS NEEDED!
Do you have a nice vintage sled near the Twin Cities? The Supertrax Snowmobile show (October 30 & 31st) and the Snowmobile Hall of Fame would like to display 15 nice vintage sleds. If you'd like to volunteer a sled, please email me.

10/19/2004
NEW RAREBIRDS!
Earlier this year we put up Lynn Trapp's 1975 440 - a true rarebird. Lo and behold Jason Remiker sends me photos of Wayne Trapp's 75 340 this week! Like Jason says, it just goes to show that they are still out there!

Our next sled is of particular fascination to me. On a trip to Roseau last year, I found it sitting in an old shed, covered with dust and the remains of a 440 someone was trying to stick in it. I asked the owner of the building (who shall remain nameless - he's a great guy and I'm sure he was having fun with me) if he knew what it was.

Jerry Bunke's 1977 340 SnoPro	Wayne Trapp's 1975 340 PDC sled

"It's a prototype piece of $%#@" came the reply. I didn't expect that answer.

"It's got a 77 serial number and Jerry's number stitch marks on the seat - was it Jerry's?" I asked.

"Yeah, but it's still a prototype piece of %$#@". Puzzled, I continued on. "But this prototype piece of %$#@ won a lot of races".

"Yeah, but it's still a prototype piece of %$#@". He calmly took another drag off of his cigarette.

"Is the prototype piece of ^%$# for sale?" I asked, knowing the answer must surely be no.

"Don't know. It's not mine". Mmm. I didn't expect that answer either.

Many frantic phone calls and more money then I ever care to spend again, I was lucky enough to return to that shed to pick it up. As we were loading it into my trailer, a guy who could not have been 20 years old walked by and exclaimed "Oh my God! Is that really one of JERRY BUNKE'S SLEDS?" Suddenly the money really didn't matter to me.

My first stop with the sled was over to Jomar Bernat's house. Jomar was one of Jerry's mechanics, an accomplished racer in his own right, and is currently still at Polaris. He looked at the sled for less then a nanosecond and declared it was indeed one of Jerry's sleds.

Pointing to the square gas tank reserve on the left side, he said "Only Jerry had that. We made them square just to be different. That is definitely his gas tank and seat."

Again the thought occurred to me that the money meant absolutely nothing now. I couldn't have been happier then if I'd won the lottery.

It was restored just in time for the Polaris 50th in Roseau, and now awaits some final touches to get it running to make her running debut in Waconia - 2006!

10/18/2004
VINTAGE SNOPRO MASTER SERIES
Earlier we had decided to not inlcude the IFS sleds in the series. However, due to demand, and the suggestion of the SLEDS organization, we've decided to create two classes for the series: Leaf Spring and IFS.

Vintagesleds.com, the Snowmobile Hall of Fame and LC Communications will sponsor the Leaf Spring class, while vintagesleds.com and SLEDS will sponsor the IFS class. Read more about it in the Racing section.

RACE RUMORS
As the season openers get closer, the talk around the beer cooler is getting somewhat crazy. Check out some of these whoppers, some of whom have turned out to be true!

10/10/2004
NEW RAREBIRD!
Jim Strandlund was just looking for something "odd" when he found what could easily be the first Polaris Factory built Race - sled just 40 miles from his home.

1965 Polaris Factory Racer

A deal was made and Jim and the sled where on the way to Roseau Minnesota. None other then Bob Eastman and Mike Hetten verified the sled as being the one built at Polaris for company cofounder Allen Hetten to race - and win - at the 1965 Beausejour Canadian Power Toboggan Chanpionship.

Those of you that know your Polaris Mustangs know they didn't have that hood scoop. You also know that Mustangs did not come equipped with liquid cooled four cylinder 50 horse Mercury outboard marine motors either.

But this one did!

RACING
I've added links to the known race tracks and assications to the Vintage sleds Racing home page. If you would like your organization included, please email us.

Missy Peregrym

LOOKOUT LIV!
I've stumbled upon a possible usurper to Liv Tyler's crown as Patron Saint of Vintage Snowmobiles and All That is Good.

Meet Missy Peregrym. She's a 22 year old Canadian, hailing from Montreal. She's been modeling since she was 18. She's now on the ABC Family chanel show called "life as we know it".

Here's how she could take the crown: I have no idea if she even knows what a snowmobile is. My theory, however, is that being from Canada, we have a far better chance of her being a sled fan then even our beloved Liv.

With that in mind, I sent the following message to her web master:

"Hello;

I've nominated Missy as the the Patron Saint of Vintage Snowmobiles and All That is Good on vintagesleds.com. The current title holder is Liv Tyler.

We'd like to know if Missy would accept such an honor, and if, being from Canada, she has ever ridden a snowmobile (vintage or otherwise), and if she has any family history with them, likes them or even just tolerates guys that like them.

If you could pass this message on, the readers of vintagesleds.com and I would be grateful. We await her response."

10/07/2004
VINTAGE SNOPRO MASTER SERIES
Tentative dates have been picked for the series. We are still trying to talk with other promoters, so please remember these are subject to change, right up until the first race in December.

RUDE DOG'S REALLY BIG SHOW
...is this weekend in Newport Maine. Nice sleds. Good BBQ, Good times. Wish I was able to attend this year! Can't wait to see some photos.

THE 'OL BUBBLE TOPS...
Two stories to start with, one of fond memories of a bubble top from Rick Herter, the other a not so fond memory from Cat master Don McLennan. Both very good stories.

There are several more to come!

BENEFIT RAFFLE FOR THE HALL OF FAME
The 2005 raffle for the SNOWMOBILE HALL OF FAME (SHOF) has begun. Of course, you can order tickets with check or credit card from the vintagesleds.com store.

The grand prize for this year will be a 2005 Arctic Cat Sabercat 500 xl. I know it's not vintage, but wouldn't you like to try a new sled - if for no other reason then to remember why you like the vintage ones better? ;-)

This one is loaded - electric start, reverse and many other bells and whistles. The Sabercat is courtesy of R & R Arctic Cat of Hazelhurst, WI.

Second prize is a resort vacation package at St. Germain Lodge on Big St. Germain Lake and third prize is a vacation package at Rustic Manor Motor Lodge in St. Germain.

The drawing takes place at the Induction Banquet for the 2005 Hall of Fame honorees on January 13, 2005 at the Eagle River Inn, Eagle River, WI. This is the 22nd annual RIDE WITH THE CHAMPS celebrity fund raiser for the SHOF. The RIDE is sponsored by AAEN PERFORMANCE.

2004 WINNERS:
* 2004 POLARIS SNOWMOBILE ~  Ashlee Setzekorn Petersburg, MI
* ST. GERMAIN LODGE VACATION ~  Tim Lund Elk River, MN
* 2005 RIDE WITH THE CHAMPS FOR FOUR ~  Dan McShane Ramsey, MN

10/05/2004
AND THE VILLIAN IS...
Scott Carmen let me know that the super cool Allouette Villian pictured below is KEN PIELECHOWSKI. Rude Dog has a few more pics of this sled on RETROSNO.COM under the OTEGO 2004 pictures.

HEY YOU, YEAH, YOU
You look like a trustworthy guy. Please view a special message just for you. Yes, it's just for you and you alone. Quicktime required.

9/30/2004
THE 'OL BUBBLE TOPS...
Kent Anderson sent in this photo - and it really does help me understand a bit more about the attraction to the Bubble Tops.

"Please check out this photo of my restored '70 Olympique running through the deep stuff. I do not know how to explain it but carving through deep powder with these old "Bubble Tops" is a thrill, with so much track and a light chassis they just float over the snow."

Now that looks like fun! Kent Anderson on his restored '70 Olympique.

9/29/2004
2005 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES ANNOUNCED!
The board of directors of the SNOWMOBILE HALL OF FAME announced the 2005 Inductees today! Congratulations to this great group that will soon take their place in the Hall of Fame!

Dave Wahl.............Greenbush, MN. For years, one of the top competitors on the racing circuit and a business entrepreneur. A three time World's Champion to Series Champion, Dave has been at the top of the game and has had an impact on the sport of snowmobiling racing second to none.

Durmont Wahl..........Greenbush, MN One of the sports top technicians. A leader in racing design and technology. Team wrench and team manager with a winning record. Part of the successful Wahl Brothers dynasty out of Greenbush, MN.

Myron Herrick........Minocqua, WI Snowmobiling at the recreational level has been his life's passion. As the founder and first president of the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs, Myron lead the way showing how clubs and state organizations need to function at the local and state levels.

Ted Otto........ Anaheim. CA Mr.Showman of the sport. One of the creators of the famous marketing effort call the "Polaris Thrill Team". A lifetime of snowmobile accomplishments including leadership in the United States Snowmobile Association and years of being the flag-man of the sport.

The induction ceremonies take place on Thursday, January 13, 2005 in Eagle River, WI. The induction banquet is the closing event for the day and is part of the 22nd annual RIDE WITH THE CHAMPS presented by AAEN PERFORMANCE.

THE 'OL BUBBLE TOPS...
Some GREAT stories have come in on the 'ol Bubble Tops. I'll be compiling and posting the best of them early next week stay tuned!

9/28/2004
THE 'OL BUBBLE TOPS...
Like 'em or hate 'em, these little sleds dominated the landscape when I was a kid. They were plentiful, inexpensive and built for fun.

Because one of my neighbors had one, I'll never forget his name - Bruce Froeming. Bruce looked like his 'ol Bubble Top. He had long, red stringy hair and was thin and wiry. Bruce also had a huge grin that he'd flash as he raced around on his Bubble Top.

One of the Ski-Doo "Bubble Tops".

I could never figure out why Bruce liked that sled so much and why it made him grin from ear to ear all the time. It was almost always broken, it would spray him endlessly with fuel from the carb (Bruce always smelled like gas, so this was probably okay for him), and he kept getting clothing caught in the clutch. He was routinely beaten by almost every other brand of sled in the neighborhood.

Yet Bruce would be out on the lake with us every winter day, proclaiming his Bubble Top to be superior to everything on snow.

I've heard countless stories of peoples fascination with these hummers, and I've seen countless Bubble Tops restored at shows. I always try to chat with the guys that have restored them. The number one reason given for restoring the sled: "Because I had one as a kid".

So what's your Bubble Top story? Why did you like them so much? Why did you hate them so much? I'll be collecting stories on them and publishing the best of them soon. If you can send me a photo of your Bubble Top, you get extra credit.

Let the Bubble Top stories commence. Email them to vsn@vintagesleds.com.

9/24/2004
NEW CLASSIFIEDS
We've opened up a new classifieds section on the web site. The seem to be holding up pretty well and so far 90% of the comments have been positive. Check them out, take 'em for a test ride and tell us what you think. One big difference: You can review any ad and respond to the author of that ad anonymously. However, if you wish to post an ad, you must register. I hope this is not too much of an inconvenience. But it will go a long way in stopping the ads from people not brave enough to use their real identity!

3 new rare photos sent are up - the Boss Cat I and "Boss Cat 0"	Just because it's sexy... Glen Mallory sent this in "This 650 Allouette, spotted at the Otego Show this year! Don't have the owners name but a nice job!" Could it be Hank Briscoe's?

9/21/2004
REPLICA RACERS
We knew it was only a matter of time before someone started replicating sleds for the purpose of racing. Clones and replication have always been a hot button issue with the vintage sled crowd, and for good reason.

At Hay Days this year, the first complete replica 1978 Polaris RXL was unveiled. It ended months of speculations and rumors.

This are not the first clones. Certainly they are not the last. Read More..

1972 Merc Prototype?	1969 Polaris Colt in a crate?

9/20/2004
EBAY INSANITY
You know it's getting to be fall when the stuff showing up on ebay heats up - like these two selections. A 1972 Mercury(???) and a 1969 Polaris Colt still in the crate(??). According to the owner of the Merc, "We do know that this was originally purchased from [a] Product Engineer who built it from Mercury Marine." Interesting. I had no idea Merc built anything this nice looking in '72! If you have more info on this intriguing beauty, please let us know!

The other one, a 1969 Colt still in the packing crate does look authentic. However, the seller offers no explanation as to how or why the owner still had the sled. One can only assume he is a dealer?

What's really interesting is the price difference. With 3 days to go, the Merc is up to $156 with the reserve not met. The Colt has zero bids, but the owner wants $8,500 as an opening bid, with 3 days to go.

Can't wait to see how this ends up!

VINTAGE SNOPRO MASTER SERIES UPDATE
Who is the very best in vintage snowmobile racing? Maybe we are a step closer in knowing. Two dates have been finalized for the series.

The last race of the series will be March 5th and 6th at the 43rd Annual Canadian Power Toboggan Championships in Beausejour, Manitoba. We are very excited to help promote this historic race. In the years I've been involved with the vintage sled phenomenon, I've heard nothing but GREAT things about this race - and their continued support of vintage racing.

We've also decided that the Award presentation (and inevitable HUGE party) will happen in conjunction with the Snowmobile Hall of Fame Vintage Roundup. The dates have not been finalized for this show, but last year it happened around Memorial Day. It was also one of the most promising new shows I've ever attended. It can only grow - and with the Hall of Fame behind it - that's sure to happen.

Don Soukup's 70 TX 800	Team Obsolete's 78 SnoPros

9/18/2004
GETTING READY TO RUMBLE
There still coming in - pictures of vintage race sleds from around the U.S. and Canada that are being prepeared for the upcoming season. Above is Don Soukups' 1970 TX 800, and the 1978 Sk-Doo and Arctic Cat racers of Team Obsolete, caught in a picture from 2004. We'll be talking to Chip Patterman of Team Obsolete very soon. His sled took top honors in the Snowmobile Hall of Fame display last summer, and Chip has let me know the team is already preparing for the 04-05 season.

9/17/2004
WEINLESE-SCHLITTEN IN EUROPA?
Traurig, zu berichten, daß ich nichts von Interesse zur snomobile
Gemeinschaft der Weinlese an Germnay, an Luxemburg oder an Holland
fand. Ich fand sehr viele attraktive Frauen, große Nahrung und ich
entdeckte I Liebe das Autobohn! Ich erhielt, 140 Meilen pro Stunde
erlaubterweise zu fahren!

Hint: try babblefish.

9/05/2004
GET READY FOR WINTER
Took a little drive today - and noticed many a tree with leaves turning color already. You know it's going to happen every year, but every year it never ceases to amaze me. I suspect this is going to be a very, very good winter.

In order to get ready for the winter months ahead, I'll be taking a short break from updates. I have some things to check out. Updates will resume shortly after September 18th - and they won't stop for the entire 2004-2005 season.

"Sehen Sie Sie neuere Leute, die ich zu den Ferien in Europa meistens in Deutschland gehe, ich ein Tagebuch und einen Pfosten alles des Interesses zur snowmobile Gemeinschaft Auf Wiedersehen halte!"

9/02/2004
NEW VINTAGE PHOTOS PART II

Now I know who sent them in - it was Ray Tkachuk, of Lublin Wisconsin. Ray received them from Mike Soltis of Ironwood Michigan - He got them from someone else - I think that was John Yantsch. Ray also is responsible for the seat being fixed up on the Mike Trapp World Championship Yamaha in the Snowmobile Hall of Fame. Thanks for sharing Ray!

MUSIC TO RESTORE YOUR SLED TO
A few people emailed with comments about my choice of music to restore sleds to, wanting to know why no classic country artists where included. Simple answer. I listen only to the finest of BOTH kinds of music. ROCK and ROLL. ;-)

VINTAGE SNOPRO MASTER SERIES
There's been some confusion on how this is going to work. The key thing to remember is that it will NOT favor one class over another. If you are running a superstock 340 at the 5 chosen races and do well, then you have just as much chance of winning as the guys running the open mod classes.

The other question raised was why no IFS classes. We are still trying to decide on this one. But the big concern is safety, number of entries and the inability to distinguish a vintage IFS sled from a brand new champ 440 sled. If we can answer those questions, IFS will get be included as well.

More on this in early October - we hope to have photos of the big stinking trophy by then as well.

8/31/2004
NEW VINTAGE PHOTOS
It's been awhile since we've had a bunch of these - but here are a bunch of "new"photos from 1970-1971. Taken, I believe at Ironwood Michigan.

Yvon Duhamel prepares his Mod-5 sled at Ironwood MI, circa 1970

8/31/2004
PRINCETON WRAP-UP
This was one of the best swap meets I'd been to in ages. Everyone was walking out with a big load of stuff. I had vendors tell me they sold more this weekend then all last year combined... Got to catch up with a lot of great people there. The grass drags were even kind of fun - the new Yamaha's appear to kick but, plus the 4 strokes do sound kind of cool.

Up next - Some "new" photos from 1971 & 72, plus we're getting ready to ad the new Racing Section.

8/29/2004
PRINCETON REPORT
The Outlaw Grass Drags and Swap Meet in Princeton is still going on today. Yesterday Jim Haug and I where there about 8:00 in the morning. The place was already abuzz. There was lots and lots of vintage sleds for sale - SRX's, a 77 Moto-Ski, several Twisters, lots of decent stuff. Prices? Probably too high, but yo can't blame people for asking - it doesn't mean that's what they got for the stuff. I found a set of 440 RXL triple pipes (never been on a sled!), some RXL ski-tips, and some miscellaneous Fuji parts. I noticed the ATV's being used to haul people in and out of the event where very, very busy - looks like the economy is pretty good to me!

A couple of highlights: New 70 Polaris TX - T-shirts, and new Polaris "Midnight Blue Express" T-shirts. Meeting Greg Karbowski and his brothers, and seeing their original video of 1974 Sno-Pro races in Alpina Michigan - and likely the only known footage of Bob Eastman's race driver career ending accident. Actual footage of the sled flying over the wall, and the sled on fire in the pits, and Bob laying on the side of the track. The short film also included racing scenes of the Rupp 3-D, the Alouette Twin Tracker, and several of the Arctic Cat Sno-Pro's. Very cool - and the Karbowski's where great hosts in their big 'ol Pace Arrow.

I'm headed back today - just for a little while, because I might have missed something....

8/27/2004.2
WHY WE LOVE LIV
I found out a new, and very interesting fact about our dear Liv Tyler this evening. She was born on July 1st, 1977. As 1977 was by far (in my opinion) the coolest year for sleds ( think: 77 Polaris IFS & Leaf spring SnoPro sleds, 77.5 Arctic Cat, Kawasaki Sharks, Ski-Doo Aardvarks), it only makes sense that our patron saint was born in this sacred year. :-) Details can be found here.

8/27/2004
BACK IN THE HOOD
Loren Anderson sent in these photos of the newly restored Mike Trapp 1974 Ski-Doo SnoPro Blizzard hood.

It has been hanging in the Snowmobile Hall of Fame for quite some time. She was to say the least, in rough shape.

Mike Trapp's 74 SnoPro hood last fall...	As she appears today.

Enter Kurt Krueger and Pro Vintage Performance. With Mike Trapp and the Hall of Fame's blessing, they took the hood in and restored it to it's natural glory as you see here. After a trip to one how this fall, the hood will be returned to the Hall of Fame.

MUSIC TO RESTORE YOUR SLED TO
Nothing will put you in the mood for nostalgia like hearing a good old song. So what were the big hits of the day when your sled was still new? Never fear - we have the answer. Simply pick a year and find the biggest selling (or most played) songs of that year.

1965 Satisfaction - Rolling Stones, Ticket to Ride - The Beatles
1966 These Boots are made for walking - Nanci Sinatra, Paperback Writer The Beatles, Wild Thing - The Troggs
1967 Light my Fire -The doors, Hello Goodbye - The Beatles
1968 Green Tambourine, Sitting on the dock of the Bay
1969 Dizzy - Tommy James, In the Year 2525 - Zager & Evans
1970 Make it with You - Bread, American Woman - Guess Who
1971 Maggie May - Rod Stewart Get it on, Bang a Gong, Theme from "Shaft", Indian Reservation
1972 Black and White - Three Dog Night, I can See Clearly Now - Johnny Nash, Schools Out - Alice Cooper
1973 Photograph Ringo Starr, C’mon Feel the Noise - Slade
1974 Ain’t Seen Nothing yet BTO, Kung Foo Fighting, Carl Douglas
1975 Fox On the Run - Sweet, Physical Graffiti (The Entire Album!) - Led Zepplin, ZZ Top's "Fandango"
1976 December 1963, Play That Funky Music White Boy, Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
1977 Hotel California - Eagles, Star Wars Theme
1978 Double Vision Foreigner, Hot Child In the City - Nick Gilder
1979 Dance the Night Away - Van Halen, My Sharona - the Knack, Video Killed the Radio Star
1980 Brick in the Wall Pink Floyd, Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen
1981 Stroke Billy Squire, Foreigner 4- Foreigner

WHO YA VOTIN' FOR IN NOVEMBER?
Note to everyone's favorite classified poster child "Adam" from New York: Despite what you think, your vote does matter. Bush beat Gore in Florida in 200 by less then 600 votes! No politician, no organization, no other person has more influence on how your life turns out then the guy looking back at you in the mirror. Despite what political group or person is in power, or what they say, they are not "looking out for the little guy". They never have, they never will. Your status, level of happiness and general quality of life are up to you. You have every opportunity in the world to be who and what you want to be. All that by virtue of the fact that you live in a free society. Don't let a bunch of sound bites on television from people seeking power determine your place in life - now get back in the garage and get them Cat's restored!

8/25/2004
WHO YA VOTIN' FOR IN NOVEMBER?
While I don't wish to turn this site into another political debate forum, I think this is really worth noting to anyone who enjoys snowmobiles or ATV's. The following is DIRECTLY QUOTED from John Kerry's web site. Go to John Kerry's "vision" for the Environment page. On the right side, under "enviromental plans" is a link to a .PDF file called "Vision for a cleaner environment".

Inside that file is this statement:

John Kerry In JibJab.com's parody of "This Land Is My Land"

"Honor the Solitude and Beauty of Wilderness Areas and Our National Parks by Keeping Snowmobiles and Jet Skis Out of Yellowstone and Other Sensitive Areas, and by Honestly Addressing Visitor and Wildlife Needs in Our National Parks.

John Kerry will reinstate the Clinton administration's phase-out of noisy and polluting snowmobiles, which have been overrunning some of our most precious national lands, including Yellowstone Nation Park and Grand Teton National Park. While snowmobiles, jet skis and all terrain vehicles have their place, they do not mix with sensitive wildlife resources and our nation's treasured wild places."

8/24/2004
MISSING SUPER SLED
Charles Plueddeman sent in this very rare photo of Jerry Reece working on his twin engine drag racer from 1968 or 1969. I don't know that I've ever see a photo of this hummer with the hood on.

What I do know that is the whereabouts of this rare racers is unknown.

Jerry Reece and his twin 800cc Polaris

Charles tells us more about the photo:

"...here's a vintage photo that might be fun for your site. It's from a box full of photos that were retrieved from the collection of "Snow Goer" Suzie Scholwin, founding editor of the magazine.

The original is a snapshot imprinted "March 69" and there's a note on the back that says "Jerry Reese?" Notice on the kneeing rider's helmet (Jerry Reece) it's lettered 1967 Champion. There are a number of pictures in this collection that were taken at a speed run event...a Ski-Doo Double Eagle, for example. It looks too cold to be March in West Yellowstone, and most of the other shots in the box were taken in the Midwest. Note the fuel tanks on the back of the sled.

Note the fuel tanks indeed - how odd! By the way - does anyone know the name of the man standing by the sled? Here's a hint: he's featured in an early "morphing" sequence from a Polaris video about early racing.

8/20/2004
HE'S BACK!
I first met the "King of King Kats", Andy Avelis, and got to see his amazing collection several years ago. I can't believe it's been that long. I know Andy hasn't done nothing in the last few years, so I'm going to catch up with him as soon as I can and update the collection with some really special new sleds I know he's found.

This is a "best of" posting, as converting all of Andy's collection just wouldn't be prudent - instead, I'll be adding his new sleds, and the full collection of photos is still available on the vintagesleds.com CD-ROM.

Speaking of the CD-ROM - for those who have placed your orders already, we hope to be shipping sometime next week. There was a snag at the duplication factory that delayed them. Thanks for your patience.

8/18/2004
FINALLY, SOME CAT RACERS
Amidst even more Yamaha race sled photos being sent to me, I finally got one Cat racer.. sort of. Glen Mallory has three Cats that will get put together as one racer. Here's what Glen had to say about them:

"Larry I had to pick on you about the abundance of white and red on your site lately. Some of us former Cat racers are contemplating a return to competition as well. Only unlike the races I ran 20 years ago, this time it’s for serious fun. Here are three “donors” awaiting the “Cat Doctor.”

What I am envisioning here is one built 1981 5000 El-Tigre from the two donor sleds, a super stock 400 quad plug 1973 El-Tigre, and one old school full mod based on a 1974 El-Tigre 295 chassis, only stuffed full of Free Air Spirit power.
I expect it will take me two years to do all these, but this time I am very serious about this. No backing out and no technology newer than 1981 in the build ups. By the way, with people complaining about vintage prices lately I was very encouraged to pick up the trio pictured here for a total of 600 bucks! There are still deals out there; you just have to be patient.

Free Airs Forever! "

Does this count? Should we only be featuring racers that are ready to run? What if Glen doesn't get them together by the time the snow falls? Mmmm?

It's just nice to see a horse of a different color.. it's been a long stretch of white sleds on the site.

INTRODUCING THE VINTAGE SNOPRO MASTER SERIES!
This year, Fuse Café, , LC Communications, the Snowmobile Hall of Fame and likely some other sponsors will be getting a really huge, big stinking trophy to give away next spring. The lucky recipient will be crowned the 2005 "Vintage Master Series SnoPro", and will be featured here on vintagesleds.com.

He (or she) who competes in at least 3 of the soon to be named 5 oval track races, has the best record in one class at those races and displays outstanding sportsmanship (or sportswomanship?) will walk away with top honors for the year.

Tentatively, here are the rules:
1. You must register. Information will be posted on how to do that very soon.
2. You must compete in at least 3 of the following 5 races (subject to change!): The Wolf Lake Opener, The Eagle River Vintage Weekend, Beasejour's last race of the year, Thief River Fall's SLEDS race, The Vintage Soo Enduro (if it happens), & the SLEDS Freeport race. We are also be talking to Big Extreme, ROLA, and Pro-Ice to see if they want to include one (or more) of their events.
3. You must compete in the same class at each of the events you participate in.
4. This will be limited to 340cc and above classes, up to, but NOT including any of the vintage IFS classes.
5. The winner will be decided by a panel of judges from each of the racing associations.

STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES!

8/17/2004
YAMAHA RACERS
It looks like Yamaha fans are getting the jump on the racing season - particularly for drag racers. The latest entry into the "Are you ready to race punk" features is Ken Anderson and his 292cc Yammer-Hammer.

"I will be drag racing [this sled] at Waconia, and maybe ovals also.

Kent Anderson's Race Ready Yamaha

I got the idea for this sled project from Danny DeLisle of Warren MN. He has a SM292 very similar to this. He was very instrumental in guiding me on this project (the easiest way to go fast is to talk to someone who is already going fast and do what they do). Since Danny already had the drive train mapped out for me I was able to
concentrate on some styling improvements.

The Sled started out as a SM292, I grafted a hood scoop from a GPX to get some more air across the NOS GYT kit free air head. Crank work was done by Northern Crankshaft. The motor was then sent to Label X in Litchfield Maine for porting, and a tuned exhaust pipe. The carb is a 40mm Mikuni donated by Scott Holman, that I chucked up in a lathe and bored, and parted off the air horn flange. The skis are by Danny Johnson at Northstar skis."

Pretty cool Ken! can't wait to see it at Waconia.

I was checking out Yamaha's regular web site when I stumbled on this: it's a history of the Yamaha sled models. Pretty cool.

8/16/2004
WHY WOULD ANYONE RACE SNOWMOBILES?
Earlier this month I visited one of my favorite collections - The Snowmobile Hall of Fame. As the Hall of Fame is in a temporary residence, they don't have all the room needed to display the rich history of our favorite sport. So curator Lorne Anderson let me dig around the stuff that is in storage. I found a ton of treasures, but one in particular stood out.

In 1992 Duane Frandsen was inducted into the Hall of Fame. He accidently left his remarks on the podium.

Loren found them, and had them bronzed.

They were that good.

Duane's remarks answer a question I've struggled with for a long time: Why in God's name would anyone want to race snowomobiles?

I tried it for the first time last year thanks to Vance Elfering letting me run his Rupp while he was injured. The experience surely changed me. But still I couldn't explain why anyone would want to go racing.

Duane Frandsen figurd it out, and now thanks to the Snowmobile Hall of Fame, I can share it with the Universe. Why race snowmobiles? Because there are Winners, Losers and Snowmbile Racers.

TAKE YOUR COMPANY ON A RIDE WITH THE CHAMPIONS
Speaking of the Snowmobile Hall of Fame, they are offering the sponsorship of their annual "Ride With The Champions" next winter. This annual event to support the Hall of Fame is a great opportunity for exposure in magazines and web sites all over the globe for a very reasonable fee. It also includes your logo on all the literature and the advertisements for the ride year round. The ride takes off from a hotel near St. Germain and is guided by the likes of World Champion Mike Trapp and Doug Hayes.

I went on the ride for the first time last year, and it was easily one of the highlights of a great winter season. Next year, they will be working on expanding the vintage ride - (I'll be heading out for that one!) and making the regular ride the best ride ever.

At the end of a great day of riding, the festivities continue with the induction ceremonies into the Snowmobile Hall of Fame. Last year's induction ceremony was really special. It's something I'll never forget.

The Hall of Fame is constantly working to preserve the history and heritage of the snowmobiling. They already have a collection that is not to be missed, and it's growing every day. They desperately need an adequate facility to the history of Snowmobiling, and if you can help in any way, please do.

8/12/2004
READY TO RACE, PUNK?
Grey Rolland is! - and here's his 76 SRX to prove it. Grey, I think you could change the name to SEX(Y). Grey and his team are New Jersey based, and this SRX 440 MOD is hiding in the garage. "IT GOES AND SHOWS" according to Grey. It runs a rubber track for the grass and cleated for the ice. The specs are 8A7 cases, 8H0 cylinders, 8F2 heads, "pinned" 76 skid, 48mm carbs, POLARIS CLUTCHES (of course!), hood by Classic Muscle Sleds, Decals, tank, seat and radiator by Al Enno, pipes by Aaenn

Grey Rolland's 76 SRX is ready to race!

If you would like see or hear more, contact Grey. Very nice Sir. Can't wait to hear that run!

NEED PISTONS & RINGS?
Efforts are under foot to convince our friends at Wiseco to reproduce pistons for many of our treasured vintage snowmobiles. Both for racing and restoration, it really would be wonderful to be able to just get pistons and rings, let alone high quality ones like Wiseco makes. Jeff Metz, Olav Aaen and Aaen Performance are leading the charge. You can help by merely contacting Jeff with your name, phone number email address, and the type of pistons and rings you would like to see reproduced.

Vintage Polaris racers Dick Peterson and Jeff Steenerson have remade the 73 Polaris Starfire 295cc and 440cc pistons, but not for the original chrome bore - they made them for racing with sleeved cylinders. That's good news as those pistons and rings are as tough to find as John Kerry's position on issues.

Contact Jeff Metz by emailing him or calling him at (414) 759-7641. Let's get organized!

8/9/2004
POLARIS IN ST. PAUL
Well over 30,000 of the Polaris faithful from around the globe converged on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds to celebrate 50 years of their favorite company. Arlen Ness, Cory Ness, Richard Petty, Jim Bernat and many other celeberaties joined the party.

Here's a breif photo essay of some of the highlights.

GENTLEMAN, BUILD YOUR ENGINES!
Are you planning on going racing this year? Ice drags? Ovals? Grass Drags? Are the sleds ready yet? We're gearing up the new vintagesleds.com racing section and we'd like to see what you'll be dragging to the track this year. C'mon - show it off! We'll share with the rest of the world. We've got all kinds of rumours, from fleets of RXL's and and Cat SnoPros being built, enduro races, new teams being formed, big name sponsors getting on board... Stay tuned and tell us what have you heard?