The Arcola Optimist Club Snowmobile Rally will celebrate 25 years of sledding on Saturday, Jan. 27 - and the event will go ahead whatever the weather.
“We typically expect 500 riders at each rally,” says Optimist Club member and snowmobile rally trail coordinator, Kevin Paton. “And we go ahead with the rally, regardless of the weather. It's become kind of a spectacle.”
“We've had years with ideal snow conditions and years with little or no snow,” says Paton. “Naturally, we're hoping for snow, but we've found that even with little or no snow, riders still come - because there are still lots of activities such as our prize draws and also, they seem to enjoy getting together to mingle with other snowmobilers.”
“Our prizes every year are great,” adds Paton. “But this year, they're phenomenal - and along with riders, we welcome anyone to purchase our raffle tickets and enjoy a day of socializing at Prairie Place Hall.”
This year's event features a total of over $30,000 in prizes. In addition to a silent auction and other draws, anyone - rider or not - is invited to purchase a $20 grand prize raffle ticket. The winner of the grand prize will have the chance to choose between a 2018 AC XF 8000 Snowmobile, a 2018 Alterra Mudpro Quad, a 2017 Wildcat Trail SxS or an AC HDX 700 XT SxS. Second and third prize winners will receive two prizes of $1,000 cash.
“There are only 2,500 of these tickets, so we encourage people to get them early,” says Paton.
“We also sell tickets for rider prizes that are sold at the registration desk the day of the rally,” he says. “And those are reserved for the riders only. But there are lots of chances to win whether you're a snowmobiler or not. There's a silent auction and other draws.”
“ As I said, the prizes this year are phenomenal.”
“And along with the prize draws, people can eat, drink and socialize all day at Prairie Place Hall,” says Paton. “There's a pancake breakfast, lunch, snacks and a beer garden. Last year, we had an ice bar outside and this year, we'll do something different. We try and keep it the same event that people look forward to every year, but we try and improve it every year, too.”
What hasn't changed throughout the rally's 25 years is the stunning 100 km of groomed trails that wind through the scenic Moose Mountains.
“The Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club grooms the trails and they do an excellent job,” says Paton. “In fact, we couldn't do what we do with this rally without them. They work really hard.”
“And we have a check point for the riders with something to eat, so we want them to have a great day and be well-fed and enjoy the experience,” he says.
Paton says the rally's 25- year success story can be attributed to a few factors.
“We have a beautiful hall - Prairie Place - which can easily accommodate everyone. The riders can mingle and it's a pretty comfortable place to be after a long day's ride.”
“Our proximity to the Moose Mountains is another big factor. And we have well-thought out trails, so no one is lost. They can enjoy the ride and the rally.”
“And our club and community partners and members are committed to this rally,” says Paton. “There's a lot of dedication, volunteerism and expertise that make this a well-run event that attracts hundreds of people and raises thousands of dollars every year.”
“But above all, Arcola continues to welcome all snowmobilers to this great event,” he says. “We'd like to thank everyone who has supported us for 25 years and we'd like to welcome you back or welcome you to the snowmobile rally for the first time.”
“And whatever the weather does or doesn't do, we promise to make it fun.”
