Snow is more than luxury, but hardly a necessity say organizers: Ultimately sled weekend is about fun, celebration and anticipation-especially this
Don Haehl, chairman of Snodeo 2011 in Old Forge, tries out one of the sleds that was on display at last weekend's event that was held at the George T. Hiltebrant Recreation Center on North Street. Photo by Dana Armington
Even if you may not be able take your sleds out on the trails over the weekend, this weekend’s Snodeo event at the George T. Hiltebrant Recreation Center on North Street has many opportunities for visitors to enjoy some winter fun.
The Used Sled Auction is scheduled to take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, and according to Laurie Barkauskas, Central Adirondack Association’s events coordinator, there has been a lot of interest generated by the first-time event.
“The auction has been something that a lot of people have requested over the years. We’ve put a lot of effort into it and we are hoping that it takes off and continues to grow,” Barkauskas said.
Organizers and volunteers gathered at the George T. Hiltebrant Recreation Center on North Street to set up for Snodeo 2011. Among those shown are Don Haehl (second from left), then Dale Stanton, Bob Gordon, Andrea Ross, Bob Gates, our friend Eugene, Bill Blandin, Dan Mahoney, and Laurie Barkauskas. Photo by Dana Armington
Throughout the weekend, Snodeo guests will also be able to visit representatives from the top four snowmobile manufacturers, and check out the 25 vendors featuring snowmobile-related goods and services.
Local vendors include the Inlet Barnstormers Snowmobile Club, Holly Woodworking, Old Forge Camping Resort, Souvenir Village, and The Naked Moose.
Among the new vendors are snowmobile lift company, Ohio Chassis and Boyesen Inc. which specializes in snowmobile accessories.
Allstate Insurance Company is also new to Snodeo.
“We thought it was a good match because you can purchase a snowmobile Saturday, register it at the DMV on Park Ave., come back to the Pavilion and get insured, and if we have snow, you could be out riding that day!” Barkauskas said.
Regardless of snow, the youth snowmobile races will continue. Only a heavy rain with very muddy conditions would prevent them from taking place, according to Barkauskas.
Snodeo will also offer food and beverages provided by the North Woods Women’s Club, music, and plenty of door prize give-a-ways throughout the weekend. Guests may also enjoy a fireworks display at the Pavilion at approximately 5 p.m. on Saturday.
Also important to remember are this year’s Snodeo manufacturer parties that will be taking place throughout the area on Saturday night.
Arctic Cat will be at the North Wood’s Inn; Polaris at GiGi’s Bar and Grill; Ski-Doo will be at Daiker’s; and the Yamaha party will take place at Van Auken’s Inne.
