Ryan McCracken photo

Rider Conan Jainvier speeds away from the competition at the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Riders Association Choko Pro Racing Series drag racing event near St. Paul last weekend.

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Sled drag racing event features low temperatures but high speeds

Ninety snowmobile-riding thrill-seekers took to the track just northeast of St. Paul on Saturday afternoon to compete in the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Racing Association’s Choko Pro Racing Series drag racing competition.

“It’s been quite a few years since we’ve had sled drags in St. Paul, and we brought them back and I think the locals are pretty happy about it,” said race coordinator Dan Blain. “I think everybody’s had a good time getting to watch some good racing, which is exactly what we wanted to happen out here.”

Blain added that many of the racers at the event spend “thousands and thousands of dollars” in pursuit of the fastest sled available, which results in a thrilling display of speed and power.

“There are snow machines here that are upwards of 550 horsepower, which is quite a bit more horsepower than most vehicles on the road,” Blain said. “It’s an awesome turnout of riders, it’s a great turnout of spectators - we couldn’t be happier.”

For local 23-year-old rider Tyler Robertson, the appeal of sled drag racing lies primarily in the speed.

“I like going fast,” Robertson said with a laugh. “It’s fun setting the sled up, it’s fun racing. It’s something to get out and do, and be competitive.”

Robertson added that while the track was a little rough, and the weather a little colder than he would have liked, he was still having a great time racing.

“The track was a little icy but they’re doing their best to kind of break it up and get a bit more traction out of it . . . They’re doing a good job for their first time.”

Blain added a flash freeze that took place the evening prior to the event left the track iced over, and required extra grooming work to ensure a safe ride.

Despite the hiccup, riders expressed their satisfaction with the track, he said. “They’re thrilled. We worked hard and they know that, and they appreciate everything we’ve done as a club, so we’re happy all around.”