DEC/JAN 2012

Vol. 3 Issue 12

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Front Cover Photo by Gary Walton / SnoX365.com

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December 2012

OWNER
PRESIDENT Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719

OFFICE STAFF
AR/AP Stacy Robinson 763-421-4400 OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR/AR Vince Griffith vince@wheelsofthunder.net 651-280-8658 JUNIOR BOSS Zack Robinson 763-421-4400

EDITORIAL STAFF
EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Betty Schurmann editor@wheelsofthunder.net 763-421-4400

Special Features

Tim Trembly / Scheuring Speed Sports ...........5 Topless Nationals........................................22 Legends - John Robinson..............................28 Sledhead 24/7 ...........................................47

Photographers/Writers
BILLY BOYLE MIKE BENOY CEAJA PHILP ERIK TORMOEN BRAD COPLAN JENNA OSTERLUND JOSH MOEN MYLIE LAVOLD KIM NILES JOHN LENTZKOW

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Reviews

ADVERTISING STAFF
SALES Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719 Ceaja (CJ) Philp ceaja@wheelsofthunder.net 763-458-5019 WISCONSIN - Brad Coplan bradc@wheelsofthunder.net 715-497-8090 IOWA - John Lentzkow John.lentzkow@mchsi.com 319-239-1375

Metcalf Service Center ................................14 Cloverland Motorsports...............................26 Fowler Distribution ......................................32 Osseo Powersports .....................................42

Rallys & Shows

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2012 SEMA ................................................18 ISOC / SnoCross - Duluth, MN ....................48 The Jack Race.............................................54 Okoboji Vintage Ice Drags ..........................70

Departments

SUBSCRIPTIONS
$34.99 - PHONE: 763-421-4400 www.wheelsofthunder.net
All content published herein is owned exclusively by Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine. Reproduction or further dissemination of the content herein is strictly prohibited without the express written authorization of Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine.

Garage Built ...............................................10 Off The Beaten Path ....................................38 ABATE of MN.............................................40

Boiling Point................................................12 Game On!..................................................68

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New Team and Another Chance at the Title

Written by Ceaja Philp
since he admits not starting to ride sleds until he was about seventeen. Hard to imagine with someone growing up in the heartland of snowmobile riding that he was actually more dedicated to motocross, and would even leave home to train in Florida during the winters. By chance he was asked and given an opportunity to try his skills on the snow instead of dirt with a new type of machine. Starting his race career as a Semi Pro, he was a natural, instantly winning races and in his last race for the season he lapped the second place racer, moving him into the Pro class in Quebec's SCM (Super Competition Motorsport) snocross series. Warnert Racing signed Tremblay for the ACSS as a Semi Pro. In 2008-2009 Tim won the Pro Lite Championship, and in 2009-2010 was moved up to the Pro classes, winning the Pro Stock Championship. He was also named Rookie of the Year. In 2010-2011 Tim finished 3rd in both Pro Stock and Pro Open, and then in 2011-2012 he won the Pro Open Championship! With multiple Pro Overall Championship titles in just a few years, Tremblay's skills and work ethic as a rider are genuinely welcomed to Scheuring's already successful team. When the opportunity to join Scheuring Speed Sports came at the end of last season, Tremblay was happy to join a team he feels is ran with true professionalism, and one that won't stop working to improve even if they are leading the points. Another advantage he had as a rider is not having to switch machines, he obviously has a clear handle atop a Ski-Doo, having been on them his entire USAcareer. Tremblay is excited to have such great teammates to help push each other, an amazing crew of mechanics, and an impressive lineup of sponsors to back him, Robbie and Darrin!
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Last season's ACSS (AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series) Pro Open Champion, Tim Tremblay, of Drummondville, Quebec is geared and ready to defend his title! He has a lot of things working in his favor to get there; one being he will now race for last year's Team of the Year Scheuring Speed Sports, owned by Steve Scheuring. Tremblay has had huge success in his short career as a Pro snocross athlete, especially
December 2012

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UPDATE:
The Scheuring Speed Sports team swept day two Pro Open at the Season Opener in Duluth, with the podium number one spot going to Robbie Malinoski, 2nd going toTim Tremblay, and Darrin Mees in 3rd! What a great way to start the season!

teve Scheuring, owner of Scheuring Speed Sports out of Aurora, Minnesota is one of the many with team changes coming into this season's ACSS (AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series). He already had a winning combination with Robbie Malinoski (last season's third place champion), and Pro Rookie of the Year, Darrin Mees, but now has added the 2011-12 ACSS Pro Open Champion Tim Tremblay, making his team a serious triple threat for the upcoming season!

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SCHEURING SPEED SPORTS

Written by Ceaja Philp Photography by Gary Walton SnoX365.com

Triple Threat

Scheuring, a 23 plus year veteran to snowmobile racing, knows what a winning team needs to be successful. As a racer himself in the Pro oval world, he saw firsthand what made teams successful or fall apart. In 1994 he put his oval racing career to rest and worked a couple of years for the factory snocross race teams. Once again he saw teams change, rise and fall. With strong conviction he knew he could create and be successful as a team owner, only offering his riders what he could truly deliver. It has worked for him, now going into his fourteenth season as a team owner and having such great resources.

In just his first year out as a team owner, sponsored by AMSOIL Synthetic Lubricant, the leader in synthetics, won Gold at the ESPN Winter X-Games, and produced a 2nd and 3rd place finish overall in his first season on the National SnoCross tour, taking on the factory backed teams. Scheuring says he has been blessed to have AMSOIL as a main sponsor ever since that first X-Games, and is also honored to have his second long time sponsor, U.S. Air Force the next season. In addition to being the first independent team out there Scheuring also brought in additional sponsors from outside the sport including

Tremblay proved calm and consistent throughout the year, was able to stay injury free, out of most of the pile ups, and with him sweeping the rounds at BRRP was able to take a commanding lead going into the Lake Geneva rounds.
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and is equally happy to have his day-to-day crew of experts, the legendary Steve Thorsen, Tony Clement tuning the suspensions , fabricator Elliot Burns building the new Open Mod Ski-Doos and newcomer Robbie Hunter learning the ropes. That is another area where the Scheuring Speed Sports team stands out. Each rider has the same crew working their sleds and the same machine is created for each of them, making it a true team effort and having full support. Scheuring dedicates himself to his team all year and is looking forward to getting the season started. He had Planet X in full force as we spoke, which is only about an hour north of Spirit Mountain, the season opener location. This course gives all racers an opportunity to get on snow before opener, do testing, and warm up before they take the start light for the first time of

Makita Industrial Tools and TRAXXAS(the fastest name in RC cars). In addition, he also has KLIM Clothing, Jeff Foster Trucking, Fox Shox, WOODYS, Goodwin Perfomance , Action Graphics, Gates belts and hoses, 50 Below web design, Rox speed FX, Dragon goggles, and C and A Pro Skis, making is easy for you to see the strength of Scheuring's team. With so many great resources already in place what could the Scheuring team do to put further pressure on the competition? How about signing on with a top-notch performance company? Steve was happy to announce that Straightline Performance, of Forest Lake, Minnesota will be the engine performance parts provider for Scheuring Speed Sports for the 2012-13 snocross sea-

son. SPI's owner, Jason Houle has been a key horsepower provider for top racers in many different facets of snowmobile racing and powersports performance. Houle's team will be testing and building a performance package that will include all of the new changes allowed by the ACSS, which will include cylinder heads, exhaust and ignition systems for all three of Scheuring's racers . Some of the this year's changes Houle has to work with is them disallowing changes in the cylinder or the crankshaft, which will put more pressure on having the exact correct head, exhaust, clutching, jetting and suspension setup. SPI is extremely familiar with these things and looks forward to proving it! Scheuring is also excited with the combined efforts,

the series. Scheuring says he averages 80 to150 riders per day the weeks before opener. The entire Scheuring Speed Sports team understands without the sponsors and fans, much of the success of the teams and events would not be possible, and are happy to take time to dedicate promoting not only their sport, but being positive role models at many open houses, charity events, sponsor supported events, and within their community. So don't miss the action from the AMSOIL/U.S. Air Force/Rockstar Energy/SkiDoo trailer and Scheuring Speed Sports by following them in person and on Facebook Scheuring Speed Sports.
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1 9 2 7 C h r ys l e r

The Black Widow

Owner/Enthusiast:

Mark Ross

Roy, Utah

Ive always been one to embrace non-conformity, to include my choice in projects. From shortening a 68 4-door Caprice or turning a 51 Studebaker into a radical convertible, it has always been my desire to do something different.

Stock Original Stock Original

This is where it all started! This is where it all started!

Sound Familiar?
Do you have a story of your custom ride? E-mail editor@wheelsofthunder.net and you could be featured with your ride in the next issue!

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While looking for a new project, I came across this 1927 Chrysler barn find from Nebraska. It was 95% original and all there. It briefly ran through my mind to restore it to an original car, then reality hit me...this is a 1927 Chrysler sedan, not a highly sought after restoration. It was screaming HOTROD to me and I liked the idea of trying something different, but this time with a theme. I first considered a full on ratrod project but soon decided that it would have to be safe as well so I could haul the grandkids around.

Steering was finished with a Cadillac telescoping column and a Vega box. A 283 Chevy small block powers the ride with a TH350 transferring the power to the GM 12-bolt. While putting things together, the thought of a theme build was on my mind. After the flat black paint went on and the cherry bombs went in, it hit me.that thing looks like a Black Widow!

A spider web grill was then fabricated and a home for the Black Out came the torches, cutoff Widow was born. wheels and sweat. The top was Future plans are for a spider web chopped 5 and the body chanroof structure with a black snap on neled 6 . The frame was boxed canvas cover. A spider web steerand back halved to accept a ladder ing wheel and a spider web side bar and coilover. mirror are also in the plans. With all of these spider webs winding The front end was stripped and a Wishbone front end with disc around the car, the only reasonbrakes was installed keeping true able shifter I can imagine approprito my commitment of safety. ate will be a can of Raid!

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Written by Billy Boyle

PLEASE COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

Well my friends the election is over, the decision has been made whether you are for or against the current administration and we now need to move forward as a nation. The one question I have isare we sticking with the plan to get men and women in the armed forces back on American soil? In one of my regular job assignments I am a safety and health consultant. I recently had the opportunity to train a small group of Marines at Camp Lejuene, North Carolina. I cant say much about the type of training that was being conducted, but I can say this, America is in good hands. The other thing that I recognized was this group and the Camp Lejuene community was the most respectful people that I have ever met. I have never been

called sir more in six days as I have in my lifetime. It wasnt just the military personnel that were respectful, but the community as a whole shared that trait. I am sure that it has something to do with it being in a largely populated military city. Maybe that is the answer right in front of our eyes, require the youth of America to serve in the armed forces right after high school, some countries have been doing this for decades. Do you think that some of these kids would start to turn around their life if they had a wee bit of discipline? Back in the day the word discipline wasnt even used, I believe the word used back then was guidance. For those of us that were raised in the 50s and 60s you might remember when a neighbor could give you a swift kick up the butt for doing wrong and your parents would say You probably deserved it. In our structured Boston School system we had teachers walking the hallways with a bamboo whip like stick

called the rattan which later became known as the Rat Hand. Get yourself in trouble and you got lashes across the palms of the hands, the girls got it on the back of the legs. Now that I am older, I can reflect on my up bringing that I watched my step to make sure I didnt screw up to get that daily disciplining that the teachers gloated about giving. I can speak for my generation that daily focus on walking the straight and narrow shaped us for what we are today. Guidance as my teachers and parents put it pointed us in the right direction. Many of my friends and family were the first to sign up for military duty during the Vietnam conflict, the ones that came back healthy had to deal with trying to fit in with society. Think about it, 21 year old men that served our country proudly scurrying to find employment in the 1960 and 1970s. Many never being able to cope with the negative label that sociDecember 2012

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ety placed on them. As an example, take the veterans that returned from Vietnam that suffered from emotional issues. We pushed many of them aside and forgot about them. I can give you a dozen examples of my personal friends that caved into alcohol, drugs, suicide, and being homeless. One of my very close friends Warren Berry was one of the individuals, served his time proudly in the Armed Forces, couldnt get help when he returned to US soil and was found homeless frozen to death on a doorway in Boston. Is that how we treat our heroes? Here it is 2012 and the focus on our veterans hasnt changed much since the Vietnam conflict. Case in point my friend Johnny a proud Marine that had suffered a brain injury from an IED in Iraq. Johnny often visited the VA Hospital in St Paul, but felt he was only getting lip service and the help he needed. Johnny spoke to me often about his emotional problems to the point that if I was a councilor, psychiatrist, Doctor, or therapist I would have giving Johnny the medical and physiological attention he needed. Johnnys game plan was to change direction, literally, and seek out help from the VA Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota. The officials at the VA basically gave Johnny the same answer, you will have to wait your turn. Johnnys turn never came; you see because Johnny left St Cloud, drove to his home in Savage and hung himself. There are many Johnnys returning from duty in the Middle East that opt for taking things into their own hands, there are some Johnnys that dont make it back from the Middle East they decided to end it there, and not by enemy fire. Take a look at the numbers of suicides in the military, who really is the enemy. The whole situation is an out and out tragedy. Many of our heros are suffering and they do need our help and I am talking society. We cant let these men and women of the armed forces be cast aside much like our Vietnam vets, but the sad thing is, they are. The re-entry program we have setup for our military personnel is broken. I know some of you that are Veterans or family
December 2012

member of Veterans are reading this and saying I or they came back ok....But did they? Our Veterans deserve the best and from my observation I dont think they are getting it. It is not just the medical attention and counseling, look at the job situation that heros are faced with. The job market sucks for a lot of people, including this writer, however I will gladly give up my spot in the job line to the veteran that is returning back to civilian life. For the new age veteran it seems to be a daily struggle. The Marines I worked with recognized the civilian life issues. The majority of these particular Marines have no interest in returning to civilian life until they are confident that they will have a normal life when they return. The sad news for them is what is a normal life? I often write about the economy, the job situation, small businesses, and the day to day struggle for Americans to survive. I dont like writing about the every day buzz kill, but it is reality. The situation only gets worse when we throw our veterans under the bus. So my question is this? How do we fix the problem? How does America create enough job opportunities for the returning vets? How about building a military like complex in the oil fields in Western North Dakota

also known as Williston. Give the vets an opportunity to serve their last year in the oil fields. Its a win, win situation. The oil companies need people, the vets need a career that pays a decent wage, and the community of Williston will get a contingent of people that will respect the town, the people, and the employer. Remember I started the article talking about the respect that our military personnel practice every single day. Thats what the intent of the story is all about taking care of the members of our Armed Forces. After all they have cared for America since 1776, it is the least we can do. I will challenge each and every one of you extend your hand, give them a hug, pat them on the back and wish them well during the Holiday season for if it wasnt for them there wouldnt be a holiday season. I wish all of our Wheels of Thunder readers a safe, healthy, and prosperous holiday season.
The views expressed in The Boiling Point are solely the opinions and research of Billy Boyle and are not necessarily the view point of the magazine or its creators.

www.WheelsofThunder.net

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Metcalf Service Center

They Have You Covered
Written By Ceaja Philp
The days of purchasing your sled and hoping your hard earned money bought you enough power and speed are over. The advancements available to you now for afterAs of today, Steve's favorite 'boosted' sled has been his 1200cc Firecat Turbo that cranks out anywhere from 250-500+hp depending on the fuel and boost. They strive to make the fastest race and trail friendly sleds they can, and they build many tricked out turbo sleds for fun but more for a testament to their customers of their abilities and quality of products offered at the shop. So now that you have you sled up to speed, how about the machine that pulls your trailer and toys? Metcalf Service Center can help in the performance department for your diesel truck as well! They carry and install Bully Dog products, programmers, exhaust systems, DPF Delete kits, and custom turbo and intake kits, and do performance trans-

market speed and performance parts is unbelievable! All the 'extras' can be found at Metcalf Service Center in Forest Lake, MN. Performance snowmobiles became Steve Metcalf's passion at a young age. He instantly enjoyed the sport of riding and racing and through the years wanted to find a way to share his hobby and experience with others. Steve decided to open the doors to his service center in 1989, and has been adding to the list of services ever since. His knowledge and desire to provide quality service to his customers is also being share by his son Tyler, who helps run the shop as well as doing the wrenching and testing for the machines brought in. They offer Turbo kits, Big Bore, Nitrous and clutch kits, performance exhaust systems, and cylinder replating, along with traction products needed to get that extra power to the ground. Whether you are looking for Trail, Mountain, Lake blasting, or Full Mod race sleds, they have you covered!
December 2012

missions by ATS. While your truck is in the shop they can also install a custom lift to add to your exterior appearance as well as your interior performance. Steve and the boys aren't done there! They are running a full service mechanical shop for your snowmobile, ATV, RV, snowmobile trailer, toy hauler or vehicle. Give them a call or stop into the shop for your service needs.
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LAS VEGAS NEVADA

Dedicated to Carroll Shelby

Fords New Cobra Jet Twin Turbo 1100 HP

f you have a passion for motorsports, attending this show in Las Vegas should be a high priority. Restricted to dealers and business owners, the general public will have to be creative to secure a pass to attend. Knowing or having a friend in the business may offer you an opportunity to join them during their visit.

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Written by John Lentzkow

Arriving late Sunday night, I met up with some friends from Minnesota. They had spent the weekend at the huge motorsports complex for the NHRA Drag Races just outside of the city. Since the show was not scheduled to open until Tuesday, we had a free day on Monday to look around. With all the things to do in Vegas, we drove back to the drag strip. This was a huge race over the weekend, and many race teams stayed over to do testing on Monday before taking off for Pomona, California. We were able to get up close and personal with teams, including touring their trailers, visiting with people like Ashley Force as she suited up in the staging area, and standing on the starting line watching her go down the track.

Later we drove nearby to the NASCAR track and toured the infield and race garages. What a beautiful facility and very impressive looking up into the stands from pit road. Although it seemed quiet with the lack of any cars roaring around this track, our eyes were focused looking up at the F16s taking off and landing from the Air Force Base nearby. Just up the road we also stopped by the Exotic Racing road course where just about any exotic car you can imagine was available to test drive or take a ride in. Requirements included classroom time before you get behind the wheel. I suppose that is necessary since you are dealing with some cars valued at a half million dollars. Being an avid Mustang guy, we decided to tour the Carroll Shelby Museum. Located at Shelby American just across the street from the road course, this is also home where the limited production custom order Shelbys packages are built. We were able to see firsthand the process how these monsters are built with some available producing over 1000 HP for the street. We also were privileged to witness the Cobra assembly by a very small group of dedicated craftsman. I would love to share photos with you during the tour, however no cameras were allowed. The museum was a wonderful collection of rare Mustangs and Cobras owned by Carroll Shelby. Even if you are a Chevy fan, I believe you would be impressed also as I was of this beautiful display of both early and late models cars.

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To wrap up the day before the show, everything we did seem to be one step higher on the performance ladder, and my adrenaline was pumping. Add to all this what we witness today, the F-16 Fighters topped the food chain for this performance junkie and help fill my need for speed. This is the 2nd time I have been fortunate enough to tour this mega display of high performance products and vehicles. The 2012 SEMA Show features more than 2,000 exhibiting companies that manufacture thousands of products designed to improve performance, safety and convenience, as well as those that enhance appearance and comfort. Products are available for every make and model vehicle, Consumers, therefore, can expect to find great specialty products for accesproduction-based B and C segment cars are. Motorsports inspires and motivates millions of consumers around the world. The Global Rallycross Championship at Las Vegas during the SEMA Show week offered entrepreneurs from the industry a firsthand look at the opportunities this sport represents and the new consumer demographic it attracts. Several of the sports biggest names in contention, including Brian Deegan, Ken Block Tanner Foust, and Samuel Hubinette demonstrated their talents which I found very impressive. After touring Shelby American facility the day before, I felt privileged to witness something here at the show which imsorizing these vehicles. Two days are not enough to see it all, and my best description is this show is just plain overwhelming. Global Rallycross Championship brought the spectacle of rallycross racing to the 2012 SEMA Show, the largest automotive industry event of its kind. It was a great opportunity to showcase the incredible technology of rallycross cars in front of this amazing gathering of aftermarket suppliers from around the world. The race coincided with the Shows opening night, Tuesday, October 30, on a course specially constructed on LVCC grounds directly across from the convention hall. The excitement of rallycross displayed just how cool these
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pressed me the most. With the passing of Carroll Shelby on May 10, 2012, the automotive industry lost one of its most legendary entrepreneurs. His creative efforts and partnerships resulted in a legacy of unmatched high performanceleading many to consider him not only the man behind the term American muscle, but a driving force for the specialty-equipment market as well. Throughout this years Show, SEMA honored Shelby with a special exhibit entitled, The SEMA Shelby Tribute. The exhibit included a large wall where Show attendees can write their own personal remarks about Shelby and what he meant to them. Above the wall, a large screen displayed changing historical images depicting Shelby, his career and his creations. The space also played host to several iconic Shelby vehicles, courtesy of Ford Motor Company. Carroll Shelby was among the greatest game-changers in the performance automotive industry. He was one of our true living legends and will always be a

tremendous inspiration to enthusiasts, racers, designers and those who revel in making horsepower. He shared with so many his passion for performance, customization and style. And he set himself apart not only with international racing breakthroughs, but by bridging the gap between hot rodders and automakers, turning stock vehicles into supercars of global renown.

Carroll Shelby was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 1986. His life and accomplishments meant a lot to the automotive aftermarket. The 2012 SEMA Show offered the perfect opportunity for the industry to memorialize and appreciate Shelby for his many contributions, while saying a final industry goodbye to this exceptional man.

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Photography by Chris Burback and Jacy Norgaard

few years back, Ogilvie Raceway General Manager and Promoter Nate Fischer was looking for something unique and fun to end the racing year with a bang. After a full schedule of Wissota-sanctioned dirt track racing throughout the summer, his goal was to create a fun two-day weekend event with no points and no pressure for the drivers. What could be more fun than going topless?

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The Ogilivie Topless Nationals began in July of 2009, although that first year the event was rained out. The idea was borrowed from the Topless 100 race run by Batesville Motor Speedway in Arkansas. Going Topless simply means racing with the roof and sail panels removed. Hornets also race at the Ogilvie Topless Nationals; however they do not race topless. As the last race of the season in the area, the event gives the drivers one last chance to win some prize money and have a little fun in the process. The fans really seem to enjoy the unusual twist in racing, as well.

with end of year events and sometimes those events present a conflict for the drivers. This year, it was the Fall Classic in Alexandria which had been pushed out to the same weekend due to a rainout the previous weekend. The 3rd Annual Topless Nationals kicked off Friday, October 12th with the first of two complete shows for Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds, Street Stocks (Pure Stocks can run with them) , Mod 4's and Hornets( Hobby Stocks can run with them). Saturday, October 13th concluded the Topless Nationals with yet another complete show. The full list of race results are available on the web at www.ogilvieraceway.com

Written by Kim KimmyCat Niles

Turnout at the Topless Nationals has been steady each year, with car counts of 115 on average, and fan attendance in the 600 range. Of course, there are other tracks

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In 2012, Ogilvie Raceway scheduled 33 dirt track races (with 6 rainouts), as well as tractor and truck pulls. In the winter season, Ogilvie hosts a three-day snowmobiling US Nationals ice racing event along with the Oval Racers Alliance (ORA). The TLR Cup is also incorporated into the event for the champs sled series. To prepare for this ice racing on the track, Nate and his crew put down 20 inches of ice on the racetrack. Unfortunately, the 2012 event was melted out but this years race is scheduled for February 1st-3rd and with any luck the conditions will be more typical of Minnesota winter sports. Ogilvie Raceway is also working with other sanctioning to possibly put together some ice racing events with dirt bikes and 4-wheelers. Building on the past success of the Topless Nationals, Nate plans to make the event even bigger and better in the years to come. One way that he hopes to achieve this goal is by partnering with a Breast Cancer Awareness charitable organization. After all, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and what could be a better way to raise money and help fight breast cancer than Going Topless at Ogilvie? For details on the next Topless Nationals event or to check out the 2013 racing schedule, visit the track website at www.ogilvieraceway.com or contact Nate Fischer directly at nate@ogilvieraceway.com. And, one final word from Nate, To kill all the rumors out there. We will be open strong next year! Ogilvie Raceway is privately owned by Corey and Ginger Ownes. Ginger puts a lot of time into helping with the office details, including bookkeeping and managing the payout on race nights. Nate Fischer is busy with scheduling, dat to day activities and dirt work. Nate is quick to point out that he couldnt get anything done without track employee, Ed Ripka. Ogilvie has room for 1800 fans in the stands, plus another 50 reserved race side parking spots between turns 1 and 2, and 7 VIP suites, including a sponsor's suite and raceway administration booth. There are also concessions on site and a frontage road connecting the track to Sundown Campground which offers full hookups, showers, a bath house and laundry facilities.

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as 2.99%. These offers are good on new and used unregistered units purchased between 11/1/12 and 12/31/12. Now that is a sweet deal to park under the Christmas tree. If its service you need, the dealership has 5 technicians that will service your prized possession with care from start to finish. The dealership has 11 employees on staff that can and will take on a variety of tasks sales, service, and tech support. The success of Cloverland Motorsports is that team concept, that everyone will step up to the plate. The dealership caters to snowmobile and ATV enthusiasts from around the country. Cloverland Motorsports is well known as an industry leader when it comes to Polaris products. The dealership also recognizes the need for sponsorship at snowmobile events. Cloverland Motorsports is one the prime sponsors of the regional ISOC rac-

For those in this Northern Hemisphere I dont have to tell you about the marginal winter with lack of the white we had last year, but some areas flourished. Take the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, you the area that when the locals point where they hail from use the left palm of the hand to show the UP looks like. We at Wheels of Thunder are pleased to announce the addition of Cloverland Motorsports of Ironwood Michigan as one the newest advertisers, however they are not new to the Motorsports industry. The dealership has been around for 14 years. Cloverland Motorsports is owned and operated by Gary Kuklinski and is an authorized Polaris Dealer. Cloverland Motorsports can also boast as the areas Largest Rental Dealer. The dealership is located 1 mile west of Hurley in the Heart of Big Snow Country and Wisconsin's Largest ATV trail system. Cloverland Motorsports offers a complete line of Polaris Snowmobiles and ATV's with financing available. If buying new is not in the budget at the time they also have many used machines for you to choose from. They also rent all

new Polaris and Ski Doo sleds, Polaris ATVs and late model PWC. With holidays here the dealership is offering an awesome Holiday Sales Event, rebates up to $1000.00 and financing as low

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December 2012

Welcome to the UP
Written by Billy Boyle
ing event held at Blackjack Ski Resort and they have sponsored the Season of Domination...another high visibility event. The popularity of Cloverland Motorsports doesnt stop there as an example heres what some of the customers are saying about the dealership; Wally & Gary are good honest people to deal with. What they tell you about a product will be the truth they also have a friendly staff. I would highly recommend Cloverland Motorsports for a sled or 4 wheeler purchases."

service no matter your needs are. Maybe you are planning a family trip, couples trip, or "just a bunch of friends" trip-call Cloverland Motorsports for the best ride of your life!!!! You will not be disappointed. Cloverland Motorsports is open 7 days a week. Contact the dealership directly call

1-800-932-1202 and speak to one of the many professionals on staff. Become a fan of the Facebook page (Cloverland Motorsports) and keep updated on what is happening at Cloverland Motorsports or visit the website at www.cloverlandmotors.com or email at info@cloverlandrentals.com

Another satisfied customer writes, "I always enjoy my visits to Cloverland Motorsports, whenever I make a purchase it is always a no hassle approach which is refreshing these days. The entire staff is great people to deal with. The shop staff is extremely knowledgeable and I trust them with any of my machines, I give them two thumbs up!" The comments from the customer surveys are consistent with first class customer
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John Robinson
Monkey's Toy

ith the ever fast changing pace the motorsports world takes on a daily basis; having advanced technology, money spent by the industry leaders to research, test, and produce better and longer lasting parts and so much more, we sometimes forget about the pioneers who made many of these sports possible. Their desire to shared their love and passion with so many of us...causing the decades of continued success of the most exciting sports should never be forgotten! I feel it is long past due that we start to share some of those amazing athletes, crew members, team and track owners, sponsors, and so much more!
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Written by Ceaja Philp

With that being said, we thought what better way than to start with our own WOT Magazine owner's Dad, John Robinson. He was only 14 when his Dad, Edward passed away, but does consider his oldest brother, Tom his childhood hero. Tom had amazing street cars and also a speed boat he allowed John to drive, however John's true love for cars and racing came from a place deep within himself. After all, he was growing up during the era of the true muscle cars, it was those cars that pulled John into the world of racing. It was natural for the men and women of that time to test their 'girth' on the streets with these factory produced beasts right off the line!

John was no exception, testing his first 'race' car, a 1966 SS Chevy with a 396, which was the car he had when he graduated high school. He could run it on the streets and then turn around take it to the race track, throw on some slicks, open the exhaust and line it up next to the guy trying to win the bragging rights in the lane over. This worked for him for a couple of years, but soon found himself wanting a little more from a new ride. This would bring on the years of John's 1968 Olds 442 with a 4 barrel, 4 speed, dual exhaust muscle machine. John laughed as he told me this was the 'family' car which would take his at the time girlfriend, Sharon to and from work, but when it came to the Twin Cities Speedway, it was one heck of a machine and driver duo! The smirk on John's face was amusing to me as he explained one day at the track the Olds had had enough and the engine blew. You could tell he was reliving the moment he had to explain it to Sharon. He not only had to find a way home, but once there had to explain he had no way to get to either of them to work that Monday because the cost to fix the car was way too much. They ended up having to borrow a couple of hundred dollars in order to buy a car to get by. "That didn't hold back the wedding," John laughed, "She still married me in 1968, but it did keep the Olds of the track for the next few years as it set on blocks in the condition it had left the track." He missed

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the racing but with sons Buddy and Scott coming into the family he knew his priorities were his family. During the few years John wasn't racing, he found some CB handle friends, 'Pink Monkey' (Darwin Upton), and 'Kid Flash' (Keith Grover) who were building cars out of Dayton, Minnesota. In 1974 John met up with the guys and was filled with the excitement that racing had brought him all over again. It just so happened that a co-worker of John's had a 1970 Plymouth Duster that wasn't running the best at the time and was willing to sell it for $1000; John made it the 25 miles home and immediately started the tear down in his garage. No more 'family grocery getter', he wanted a car specifically for the track. With work and family it took some time to go through and get it ready for the line, and this is where his new friends, Darwin and Keith came into play. They helped complete the Duster with a small block 340 Mopar with about 550hp and get it on the track at Minnesota Dragways. John admitted being a little green with all of these new things they had done and it took a little trial and error to work out the bugs. Having tackled that and having such a great crew of knowledge around him, and his natural abilities as a driver would start his long reign of success. 'Monkey's Toy', out of respect for all of the work Darin ('Pink Monkey') had dedicated to helping John was created seeing over 30+ years on the track and numerous winner circles. In 1994, out of nowhere an old friend, Dale Meyer contacted John. He had always had

a major love of the cars and racing. At the time he did not explain he had been diagnosed with throat cancer and wanted to spend his time left enjoying being around them and John, which he did, becoming John's main guy at his side. Over the years seeing many tracks and numerous wins, 2000 would end up being his best year with multiple titles at different tracks, coverage in National Dragster and winning the Race of Champions Wally! In 2004, while at the US Nationals with his son Buddy racing in Pro Stock Motorcycle, a gentleman extremely interested in the '70 Duster approached John about buying 'Monkey's Toy'. At that time John had spent so many years with the car doing what he enjoyed and winning races, declined the offer. In 2005, John's final year racing, he sadly

missed going to the National Championships in Pomona by losing in the final round of Divisionals with a bad light, or as John admitted, "I got caught sleeping on the line." Later that season while on his way to a race at BIR (Brainerd International Raceway), John's final decision was made. During the drive to the track he had a blow out on the traffic side of the road. It wasn't a good start with weather moving in and wanting to get up to the track. Once there it was too late, the rain had made it and the racers sat waiting to see the fate of the weekend. Saturday morning the announcement was made that the weekend would be canceled. John had had such a successful career, but over all of the years, weekends as this would take their toll. This is why he made the phone call on the way home that day to Steve, the gentleman who had approached him the year before about purchasing 'Monkey's Toy'. He knew if he didn't let his car go that day, he would never do so....and that's just what happened. He drove directly to Steve's house and made the deal. John admits the next day as he looked in his empty trailer a small sadness came over him, but after looking back knew he had made more of his career than many others can say. John is proud to be known as a 'bottom bulb foot breaker' his entire career. For those of you not quite on the same page....this means it was all John and his car. No electronics to assist, trans brakes, delay boxes, or other assistance, just his reaction and the performance from his car. A pure pioneer staying true to old school racing.

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So what keeps John busy these days? He admits he misses racing, but more the friends and extended family he had along the way. You will still find him and Sharon at the drag strip enjoying the races and at the side of Buddy and Scott in their adventures as well. They also have grandchildren that have shown interest in the motorsports industry and they are happy to be there to support them.

SOME OF JOHN'S OTHER EARLIER CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:

1984 Midwest Drag Racer's Association Runner Up (Pro Eliminator) 1985 Brainerd International Raceway (BIR) Season Champion (Pro Eliminator) Track Overall Points Leader and Champion Midwest Drag Racer's Association 1st Place (Pro Eliminator) Division 5 Finals Semi-finalist 1989 BIR Season Champion (Pro Eliminator) BIR Sportsman Performance Award Division 5 3rd Place (Pro Eliminator) 1990 BIR Top 5 1991 Division 5 Semi-finalist 1995 Midwest Drag Racer's Association Season Champion (Sportsman) 1997 Rock Falls Raceway Season Champion (Sportsman) 1998 Rock Falls Raceway Top 5 Division 5 Race of Champions Qualifier 1999 BIR Season Champion (Sportsman) BIR Sportsman Overall Performance Award Rock Falls Top Five (Sportsman) Received 'Racer Dedication Award' Midwest Drag Racer's Association 1st Place (Sportsman) 2000 BIR Season Champion (Sportsman) Sportsman Performance Award Rock Falls Raceway Season Champion (Sportsman) Midwest Drag Racer's Association 1st Place (Sportsman) NHRA Division 5 Finals Race of Champion Qualifier / Winner of Race of Champions 2001 BIR Season Champion (Sportsman)

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Fowler Distribution A Midwest Best!

While winter keeps teasing us with little bits of snow here and there, sled heads out there are getting their sleds ready and hoping for good powder this year. One product thats still a bit of a hidden gem can help keep your sled running smooth AND save you money. Sound extreme? Well it is; Cycle 2 Extreme snowmobile oil, from Fowler Distributors

Fowler began distributing their private label, semi-synthetic oil out of Bloomington, MN, in 1990. Since then, it has been gaining popularity, even with those who tend to prefer full synthetic oils. People like the oil for a lot of reasons but the big ones are its clean burning properties and its reasonable price of $29.95 per gallon. Where most manufacturers are trying to sell you their full synthetics for another $10 plus per gallon, says owner Eric Hillger. You can get our oil for less money and still get great protection.

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Written By Mylie Lavold

You dont have to take our word for it. Sledheads have put the product to the test with great results. Hardcoresledder.com posted the following endorsements. I have used it in non-valved sleds for years and get over 10,000 miles without re-ringing and still have 120 PSI compression. Best oil you can buy for the money to use in non-valved sleds. I would agree with all of the above. I ran it in my old lady's 01 ZL600 and in my 03' Firecat with no problems. It is way better than the brand name oil.

Testing done by Snotech magazine also had positive results. Our dedicated test sled for this project was a 2004 Polaris Pro X2 700. We chose a Polaris simply because of all the gummed up power valves we hear about. We even sucked out all of the original oil from the tank when the sled was brand new so we could get a good read on this stuff, and then ran this oil (exclusively) for over 1500 miles. The 2 Cycle Extreme didnt really smell much at all. There wasnt any sort of perfume to it, not much aroma or smoke. Maybe not as clean as some of the more expensive fully synthetics, but quite impressive. (February 2004) Fowlers 2 Cycle Extreme meets or exceeds both Japanese (JASO-FC) and Global/Euro (ISO-EGD) specification standards. To earn these certifications requires high temperature, thermally stable additives and special base oils specifically designed to reduce piston scuffing while minimizing exhaust valve deposits, port carboning and smoke. In other words, it wont choke you out with smoke and strong smells and it wont gum up your engine parts. I should also point out Extremes excellent low temperature pumpability, (-60) pour point. This can be important in the land of 10,000 lakes where temps have been known to dip down to 45 below. I hope I didnt jinx us by saying that.

Oil isnt the only thing Fowler offers for snowmobiles. They have an amazing parts supply in stock, including hard to find parts for older sleds. This is a great benefit to their many smaller independent dealers as well the big guys who dont keep those one-zies and two-zies in stock. A phone call to one of the guys at Fowler and you speak to Hillger or one of the knowledgeable staff (yes, a real live person!). And these guys actually know what parts look like! Any monkey can be trained to type something into a computer to see if a part

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Fowler isnt just snowmobiles. They have a great selection of parts for ATVs and can even keep you mowing your grass in the summer. We can work with the guy who will fix your John Deere tractor all the way down to your snowmobile, ATV or chainsaw, says Hillger. Those multi-functional shops are some of our best customers. We are all familiar with the 80/20 rule: 20% of your customers generate 80% of your revenue. At Fowler things are a bit different. We have a lot of small customers as opposed to a few big customers, says Hillger, adding, When you get into the smaller

is in stock. But the guys at Fowler really know their stuff. Although Fowler does offer retail service, their primary focus is servicing the smaller independent dealers and repair shops. I dont get into a war with the big guys. We both have our niches, says Hillger. I carry a lot of older part numbers. Everything I can still get a hold of, I keep in my catalog. This is a great service to those smaller businesses that dont or cant order in huge volume.

towns, those people really appreciate the way we do business. To be intentionally clich I summed it up as small town service in the big city. This in my opinion is a positive, not a negative. Finding a business that provides knowledgeable and true customer service in this day and age is more often than not, impossible. Fowler offers a wide variety with over 60 brands and thousands of aftermarket parts. To become a dealer or check out their line list, visit www.FowlerDistributors.com or call 952-884-5401.

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Written by Brad Coplan

Winter is fast approaching us, we have already received snow and in some cases several inches. With thoughts of snow on the ground, snowmobiles come to mind. The snowmobile season in my area is usually not very good. If you really want to do some riding you are either going to have to go to Northern Minnesota, Wisconsin or the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. But this story is not about the modern day snowmobiling, it is about snowmobiling of yesteryear, the days of the past. Ive decided to write a story on the Antique Snowmobiles, the machines in our snowmobiling history. With that I made contact with a Rob Crowe of Roseau MN. Rob is a writer by trade for the Warroad Pioneer Paper. His feature article is The Southwest Angle News and Views. Rob is also the contact person for the up and coming, David Johnson Vintage Sno-Cat Spectacular held on December 8th in Roseau. Rob

is also a historian on the Polaris and Artic Cat Snowmobiles, that were originally built by David Johnson and Edgar Hetteen. In 1956 Hetteen was away on a trip and while he was away, Johnson built the first Polaris Snowmobile, the Sno-Cat. The very first Polaris snowmobile was sold to a Pete Peterson who owned the lumber yard across the street from the Polaris shop. Peterson bought the sled for $425 and used it for hunting fox, wolves and rabbits. With that they continued to build sleds one at a time. Hetteen would eventually leave his partner Johnson and would start up a new line of snowmobiles, which became the Artic Cat Snowmobiles. Johnson would go on and continue building the Polaris Industry. On December 8th at the Vintage Sno-Cat Spectacular, they will be honoring David Johnson. He is in his 90s and he still lives in Roseau. Mr. Johnson will also be assisting in giving away the David Johnson Tro-

phy on that day. Also given out on this day will be the Bob Eastman Trophy. Eastman raced Polaris Snowmobiles from 1960's to the 1970's. He led the Polaris Race Team and in later years became the teams manager. Eastman was inducted into the Polaris Hall of Fame and also the Snowmobile Racing Hall of Fame. In 1973, Eastman won the World Championship Snowmobile Race in Eagle River WI. Other trophies will go out for the Exhibitors Favorite, Sno-Bunny's Choice, Guy's Choice, Ugliest Sled and the Oldest Sled. They also have an area for the Best Race Sled from the era, Best Polaris, Artic Cat and Ski Doo. For the people that built sleds on their own they have trophies for Unconventional Sled and Shop Built Sled. In all Trophy Classes the sleds must be built prior to 1980. Also on this day you can watch the Car Hood Haul Competition, which is a two person team using a Sno-Cat and pulling a car hood. This is a two lap course with hay bales and half full cream cans. The idea is to get the best time without spilling or making mistakes while traveling through curves and over hills. Two other events on the schedule for the day are the Tillototson Rebuild. This is a timed event for the snowmobile mechanics. They must field tear down and replace

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Off the Beaten Path

Vintage Sno Cat Spectacular Wisconsin
the needle on the carburetor and get the snowmobile running again. The other is the celebrity race between Artic Cat's Roger Skime and Polaris's Ray Monsrud. Skime is the Vice President of Research and Development for Artic Cat and Monsrud has been a long time Polaris Snowmobile Racer and has been inducted into the Snowmobile Hall of Fame. Also on this day, weather permitting, will be the Norskybon Heats which are single cylinder oval track races. So with all that being said, I do believe that it will be a fun day in Roseau on December 8th. They are expecting over 50 sleds and this will be a great time to go and watch the old sleds compete and also to look at the old time snowmobiles. So dont forget to bring the family and the camera, and make sure to watch the parade of Antique Snowmobiles on that day. And on the same note of Antique and Modern Snowmobiles, If you get a chance head on over to St. Germain WI and visit the Snowmobile Hall of Fame. It was first started in 1989 in Eagle River WI and then in 1994 they moved it to St. Germain and have since built on. Here you will find the

complete history on snowmobile racing from the first sleds to present time. You will see trophies and pictures of the great racers as well as their sleds and history. Each year they induct new members and

you can get a chance to see their picture and a history lesson on why they were inducted. Some were because of their racing performance and others were because of their contributions to the snowmobile industry. Well if youre like me and can remember the old time sleds, then these two trips will work great for you. And if youre too young to remember then go look at the sleds and see how the snowmobile history started and how it is today. Where I was raised in Phillips, WI we had a lot of snow and a lot of fun in the winter. My family's first sled was a 1968 Johnson Skee Horse. It had reverse, a wide track and believe me it weighed as much as a horse. But the truth is it had the power of a horse too. I still get the thrill of looking at the old time snowmobiles and the many different makes and styles.

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Written by Billy Boyle

FROM PARTS TO POWER

sseo Powersports is not the new player on the block but, they ARE the player with new vision. The vision is about taking the business to the next level.
Osseo Powersports has been around for some 5 years primarily dealing in parts and service. The company is the one of the largest aftermarket discount parts dealers in the state. Although considered a small business, to be recognized as one of the leaders in the state is a milestone for Osseo Powersports. The company consists of several family

members, lifelong friends, and business partners. Todd Sigfrid and John Rohach are business partners and friends that continue to think out of the box to take the company to the next level in the powersport world. John Rohach, also owner of a premier lawn and landscaping firm, brings to the table a great deal of knowledge and experience in the power equipment arena. Johns passion for Motorsports compliments the objective and vision of Osseo Powersports. Todd Sigfrid has a long and successful career in the biking and snowmobile industry. He has played a role and managed the Polaris Snowmobile Race Team, worked as en engineer during the initial design of the first production bikes at Victory Motorcycles, General Manager of Viper Motorcycles, and has been the recipient of the National

VICA award. With the combined credentials of John and Todd, the Osseo Powersports team is on the right track for bigger and better things. Other members of the team include Todds wife Michelle, she spearheads the parts and administration part of the business. Todd son Cody Sigfrid, that tends to wear quite a few hats, said that parts and service has always been our bread and butter and we will never give way to that part of the business. The vision for the company is to get diverse to stay competitive. Another family member, Tyler, also plays a major role in taking the business onward and upward. Osseo Powersports is outfitted with 5 bays with a nice contingent of technicians

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turning wrenches to keep the work flowing in and out, any time of the season. The Technicians include Jon, Tyan, Drew and Cory. These guys do so much more than service; they also are involved in parts, sales and much more of the day to day operation. These guys maybe young; however they are knowledgeable and experienced in all Motorsports. This team of technicians is dedicated, committed to improving AND expanding the firm. They are part of the Osseo Powersports family. The shop is ready for any machine in any season. For an example, the snowmobiles will be lining up for that initial check and balance to get the rider ready for the season of the white stuff. Speaking of the white stuff Osseo Powersports has a full line of Honda & Toro snow blowers, as well as ATV plows and accessories, ready to clear the walkway or driveway of the fluffy white powder. If you are looking to tune your personal snow blower up with a check up and service get it down to the shop before the snow flies. Osseo Powersports vision of expanding the company happened just a year ago when they took on a nice line of Honda Products, ATVs, Motorcycles, and Sideby-sides. Thats right, they are one of the few Big Red dealers in the state! The Honda Corporation is fully supportive and has the confidence that Osseo Powersports will be one the primary dealers

of Honda Products in the State. Another entirety that the company offers is power equipment. They offer Honda Power Equipment, Toro and Echo products including: chain saws, trimmers, leaf blowers, power generators to name a few of many. Another attractive part of Osseo Powersports is they have a full machine shop outfitted with a mill, lathe, press, tube bender. This machine shop has been used in another segment of the businessmanufacturing aftermarket parts, most notably to Polaris. The company is also developing the ONLY hard Cab available for Big Red (side-by-side) in house. Prototypes have been modeled and built, first production run expected to come in the next few months and the company already has many orders wait-

ing! My suggestions take a trip to the dealership and shop and check them out. While you are there you just maybe lucky enough to sip on one of their new ventures, a full blown coffee and pastry shop called Kickstart Coffeewhich is coming soon. Thats worth venturing down and kicking back with a little java and sweets while you shop around. The staff at Osseo Powersports are not just your everyday owners, sales people, technicians, and support staff. Talking to Cody he put the credibility of the shop this way, If we are not fixing, we are riding. And Im talking off road dirt bike racing. Currently the guys are racing in the 250A and B class, and already have several state championships under their belt. These guys walk the talk they are the real deal and you will find them at Osseo Powersports. Do I have to say anymore? Whom do you want working and servicing your prized possession? Whom do you want taking you through the step by step process when you are purchasing a machine? The answer is simple, the knowledgeable and credible staff at Osseo Powersports. Osseo Powersports is located at 116 County Road 81 in Osseo. You can speak directly to the sales and service staff at 763-315-0200, or email them at customersupport@osseopowersports.com. Follow the success of the family and friend owned business on Facebook and Twitter. You will be glad you did.

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SledHead 24/7 TV Show airing on FSN-MN & FSN-WI

Sledhead 24-7 can be seen Sunday nights at 10pm on FSN

http://www.sledhead24-7.com/Airtimes/
Welcome to the wintery world of Sledhead 24-7

Its about tech and trail...... and spending time with people who embrace the snowmobile lifestyle. Each week host Meisha Johnson, former racer Paul Mack and tech expert Jeff Fisher steer you to some of the worlds greatest places to ride.....with some of the worlds greatest riders. "Sledhead 24-7" will check out cutting edge gear and gadgets and ride the latest model sleds from the major manufactures.

ance in Forest Lake Minnesota, has been crafting the how to for speed. Today StraightLine is a worldwide performance shop, but had humble beginnings in founder Jason Houle's garage.

Well test the limits of snowmobile performance through a series of ambitious builds at Speedwerx. But "Sledhead 24-7 " will always be about folks like you, the riders, the clubs, and families who cant wait to get out on the trail. From the Firecat, to the Pro Cross chassis, Arctic Cat has made big changes in the past decade and the test riders at " Sledhead 24-7" ride, rate and review.

StraightLine creates upgrades for just about all power sports machines. Today Jason shares 3 ways to quickly improve your Ski-Doo, starting with StraightLines exclusive exhaust kit, fuel programmer and clutch kit, which are easy, quick ways to upgrade your Ski-Doo.

Snocross super star Robbie Malinowski, races the pro circuit on a StraightLine enhanced SkiDoo, Robbie's proud to race w/ StraightLine. "If you haven't been to Jackson Hole, you're missing out. " Sledhead 24-7 " hangs out and has some fun at the World Championship Hillclimbs. "The Jackson Hole Hillclimbs are a favorite of every snowmobiler." "Jeff Fischer shows us the quickest way down the mountain." This is just a little of what we have going on, you can catch Sledhead 24-7 Sunday nights on Fox Sports North and Fox Sports Wisconsin. Tune in each week www.Sledhead24-7.com. www.WheelsofThunder.net Page 47

If you own a Ski-Doo, learn about Straightline Performance and find out about the Heart Breaker, a dyno room that hides no secrets. For more than 2 decades, Straightline PerformDecember 2012

BLACKJACK RESORT
Bessemer, MI
The Blackjack Resort in Bessemer, Michigan is ready for the series to light up the hills on December 7th and 8th! Besides being a host to part of this year's AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series, Blackjack is one of the most affordable resorts in Big Snow Country! They believe everyone should be able to enjoy skiing and boarding. They offer special discounts for youth, military and college, mid week tickets along with their daily specials. If you are not a current skier or boarder and would like the guidance from an instructor they have lessons available too. There is a constant update for current weather conditions, live camera views, and daily information on open trails, snow base, and open lifts on their website www.skiblackjack.com, or you can follow the latest on Facebook Official Blackjack Resort Group They have 101 acres of skiable area, and average 210 inches of annual snowfall. There are 19 amazing ski trails, 6 lifts, and 2 terrain parks set up for different level of riders. They also added their first double black diamond expert glade trail and brought back one of the most popular kids woods runs anywhere last season. There are condos nestled back along many of the trails that are available or they have a list of preferred lodging places in the area.

CANTERBURY PARK
Shakopee, MN
From Michigan back to Minnesota, ACSS will start the new year off right with Canterbury Park's Traxxas Snocross Presented by Jimmy John's on January 4th and 5th! The Snocross series has been held at Canterbury every year since 1996. If you missed the opening event at Spirit Mountain in Duluth, MN you don't want to miss Canterbury! From the 120 class to the Pro Open, there will be snow flying as these competitors bring you some of the most fierce competition in snowmobile racing! There will be three days of battling for the podium, and with many home state competitors wanting that position, it's guaranteed to be one spectacular of a show! Canterbury was built in 1984 and offers 300,000sq ft of grandstand space with indoor and outdoor seating. It sits on 355 acres and has parking available for about 10,000 vehicles. The track is conveniently only 25 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, and has three large levels consisting of live gaming, simulcast, and dining options. Even when the live racing has ended for the season, the attractions continue their a calendar packed with trade shows, conventions, and other events to keep you entertained and informed. Get your tickets and come be a part of the action! www.isocracing.com or www.canterburypark.com .

ISOC SnoCross

DEADWOOD SHOOTOUT
Deadwood, SD
New to the schedule this season....the greatest show on snow will be headed to Deadwood February 1st and 2nd, as the ISOC Amsoil Championship SnoCross Series hits the Black Hills. More than 150 of the top professional SnoCross racers will descend on the historic towns Days of 76 Rodeo Grounds for a weekend of high-flying, high-speed, high-octane snowmobile racing. The races will be aired on the CBS Sports Network as well. Advance tickets are $10 for Friday and $15 for Saturday, and $20 for a 2-day pass; kids 5 and under are free, those 5-12 are $5. Gate prices are $15 for Friday, $20 for Saturday and $30 for a 2day pass.

www.isocracing.com
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SNOCROSS, Duluth National, MN

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reetings once again Wheelers! We are getting as excited as you for the snow to fly! Yes, GameON! TV is excited to see you again and this issue of Wheels of Thunder continues to excite race fans with it's interesting stories and magnificent pictures. GameON! TV is growing and reaching so many of you with our sports programming and now we are expanding to the Dakota's and western Minnesota via MidCo Sports Network. As you know, GameON! loves sports, from the variety of professional, college & high school sports to all the outdoor events that dot our regional landscape. GameON's partnership with Wheels of Thunder is strong and just like you, we also enjoy the most comprehensive race magazine and website to be found! Wheels of Thunder magazine gets it and gets you the latest information, amazing pictures and all those terrific stories to the most passionate motorsports fans in the country! Looking ahead, there's special moments ahead for GameON! We recently taped our 100th broadcast and now we're putting emphasis on our social media reach. Every week GameON! comes to you in crystal clear full High Definition and we have just launched our first APP (it's free to for Apple & Android phones). The new GameON! TV app puts our show at your fingertips and we're now offering a weekly PODCAST available @ our show website www.GameOnTvMN.com. It's full of bits and pieces of sports from the region and what's ahead on our weekly TV show. GameON! still serves as the leadin to the award winning FOX NFL pre game show on FOX's MY29 here in the Twin Cities during the NFL Season. GameON! does what no other TV sports interview show (in the region) does. We offer a diverse and entertaining half hour of TV as we bring you the most visible and popular Minnesota sports figures. From the exciting season that the new look Vikings are enjoying, the new Wolves season underway, the NHL Wild, the Twins and we visit with the Lacrosse Swarm. There's NASCAR and we're all over your favorite drivers now that snow racing approaches. GameON! just featured championship racer

Levi LaVallee and we'll be all overthe SnoCross racing season and Xtreme sports that touch all seasons! This show is interactive so we'd love to hear from you! Please visit our Facebook site (friend us @ GameON on facebook), our website @ www.gameontvmn.com and 24/7on twitter #gameontvmn. You are always welcome to visit our live tapings and each week we list guests and updates on the GameON! website as well as our Facebook site. Get upclose and personal with us!! We also partner with the one of the largest Vikings fan sites in the world, www.PurplePride.org. I've said it before and I'm saying it again! Get off the couch and get your GameON! Be a part of the exciting effort we're putting on! Here's to fall and the coming winter sports season ahead. Hope to see you at an upcoming GameON! taping!!

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Written by John Lentzkow

ates are set for the Friday Jan. 18th, Saturday Jan 19th & Sunday Jan. 20th, 2013 on Clear Lake, IA. Located just off interstate 35 and west of Mason City on highway 18, this weekend is filled with family friendly snowmobiling fun.

This will be the 4th year the local North Iowa Snow Seekers and surrounding clubs have volunteered to host this race which benefits the area population, tourism and businesses. The proceeds go back to the community in the form of donations. Some of the ways they do this is by: grooming trails, providing trail markers, providing trail maps, promoting fun runs and hosting THE JACK Race.
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The event is a memorial to Jack Helgren, an area businessman, avid snowmobiler, former dealer/racer and promoter of the sport for the area. Race Chairman Gary McVicker, longtime friend of Jack Helgren, wanted to pay tribute to Jack for his love of racing, and has worked closely with the North Iowa Snow Seekers club coordinating efforts to make this one of the top 2 winter races in Iowa. Friday evening starts with the Cruise around Beautiful Clear Lake and reception at the VFW in Clear Lake. Racers may pre-register for Saturday events.

Saturday Jan. 19th features snowmobile racing including LeMans Style Racing and Radar Runs. The races consist of vintage to brand new sleds. There are many classes including a

class where the age of the rider and age of the snowmobile must add up to 80 (the older you are - the newer the sled you can ride) and also includes a Ladies only class. Additionally there will be a Vintage Snowmobile Show and food tent. Saturday night the Clear Lake VFW will host the Awards Banquet and an Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Famers band "Split Second" will perform. You also will have an opportunity to bid on a Vintage Ski-Doo up for auction.
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away. Here are a few businesses I recommend for your visit to Clear Lake, Iowa: The AmericInn will play host for racers looking for lodging and will offer a racers discount for booking in advance. This is a very nice place to stay with a beautiful pool and plenty of parking for large trailers and rigs. Because of the large turnout expected with tourism and all the other winter activities planned that weekend, I suggest you call 800-634-3444 early to insure reservations. Of course everyone has to eat right? I highly recommend fine dining at the Boathouse Bar & Grill. Give Chuck a call to reserve a table at 641-357-8688 and enjoy great steak or seafood with a great bar. Bennigans Grill and Tavern offer a variety of good food and a great place for kids to eat. I recommend the ribs and a tall draw after a cold day on the ice. 641-357-2366 Rookies Rockn Sports Bar located downtown Clear Lake has great drink specials and you can also dine next door at Rookies Seven which is connected to the bar. 641-357-0106

Sunday events include Vintage Ice Drag Racing. With racers attending throughout the Midwest, you can get up close and personal as a spectator to witness these beautifully restored sleds that display surprising performance. With speeds capable of triple digits in 500 feet, you will appreciate the work and craftsmanship with four lanes side by side racing at its finest.

racers, listening to their suggestion to make this a safe fun weekend. For example, I remember asking an official if they were planning on using a video camera at the finish line. I shared with him some classes are just too close to call, and the use of electronics would be necessary to provide a fair call. The next morning before the races, he stopped by our trailer and informed me a video camera was set up and ready to go. Very impressive! Because of the weather, lack of snow, ice conditions, and rescheduling last year, the participation of both racers and spectators are expected to increase this January through expanded media coverage and positive feedback. Great dining, shopping, and friendly community, offers visitors everything they need for a great winter get-

Last year Mother Nature hampered ice conditions which made it difficult for both racers and promoters causing dates to be rescheduled. Volunteers really stepped up to the plate providing assistance getting race sleds from their trailers to a beautifully prepared track. The Vintage Ice Drags were added to the event schedule for the first time in 2012, and officials worked with

Wheels of Thunder Magazine will cover The JACK RACE with a feature story scheduled later on in the season. Subscriptions are available at 763-421-4400. You can visit: www.THEJACKRACE.COM to get all the latest info, details and pre-registration forms.

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he Dickinson County Snow Hawks will again host the 2013 Vintage Ice Drags in Okoboji, Iowa. Scheduled for February 2nd, this is the third stop of a five race series planed for Iowa and Minnesota to date. Five lakes surround this friendly community, which are glacier-carved and support both summer and winter sports.

Anyone who has attended the races held here in the past have had nothing but praise for this club and the effort they put forth to insure a great track and fun times for those attending. Four lane drag racing set up for 500 feet with plenty of shutdown, and smooth as a babys bottom is what this club offers. And at the end of the
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day, racers line up to determine the fastest sled of the day. Even last year with marginal ice conditions, rain, and warm weather, volunteers from the club worked day and night to provide us a place to race. Like all the other races we attended last year, we used caution

pulling our big trucks and race trailers onto the ice to insure our safety. To date, Parks Marina will be the site again for this event. If you come to race, this place will test you against some of the best in the business. Okoboji, Iowa and the surrounding area is home for several race teams who take this
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With the long cold winters typical in Iowa, you can choose to sit by the fireplace or get outside and enjoy the many opportunities winter has to offer you, especially the Iowa's Great Lakes region. A hotspot for tourism in the summer, the Okoboji area offers also year round activities including a winter getaway. Some 120 miles of groomed trails for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and great shopping await you.

course a great place to dine with award winning menus featuring pasta, steak, and seafood.

Arrowood Resorts will be the host hotel for the Vintage Ice Drags and offer discount to racers for early reservations. Please call the hotel direct at 712-332-2161 to make arrangement. You will have plenty of space for parking trailers and enjoy a great stay with family and friends.

sport very serious, and why not? This is an ideal place to test their equipment and setup with several lakes available nearby or right in their own their backyard. And if you want to be successful, this offers you a huge edge on your competition in the world of ice drag racing for vintage classes.
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After a refreshing day out and about, I highly recommend reservations for lodging at the Arrowood Resort & Conference Center. Relax with a glass of wine or you favorite cocktail in the Minervas Restaurant & Bar located just off the main lobby. You will find the view overlooking the golf

For more information about the races, please refer to the website: www.dickinsoncountysnowhawks.com
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