Posted on behalf of ISOC
MINNEAPOLIS (December 1, 2008) – Tucker Hibbert threw down a challenge to all other professional snocross riders on the planet during round one action in Duluth over Thanksgiving Weekend, and the stage is set for intense competition December 12-14 in Ironwood, Michigan. After sweeping the Pro Main Events in Duluth, other top snocross pilots are have their sites set on Hibbert and the top box on the podium.
The weekend heats up fast Friday night at 7:00pm with the Monster Energy Slednecks Invasion Tour. The top freestyle athletes in the world will showcase the most insane tricks, launching their snowmobiles from two freestyle ramps to a backdrop of infused rock and free swag to the fans. Joining them will be the biggest names in cross including Hibbert, Levi LaVallee, Robbie Malinoski, Iain Hayden and others for an evening of hospitality and autographs.
Competitive juices flow early Saturday morning with support class racing, culminating with the Main Event from 4:00pm to 7:30pm. This all-out showcase of the top Pro and Semi-Pro riders anywhere will be bar to bar non-stop action, with qualifying, last chance qualifiers and finals running back to back to back.
“This format will be new for many race fans familiar with traditional national snocross events,” said ISOC Race Director Blair Bodley. “It’s a format not unlike what is used in motocross or supercross and is designed to benefit both racers and spectators.”
The one-day main event is designed to improve awareness and attract a bigger crowd for the showcase event. In the past, fans were accustomed to seeing top riders race at various times throughout the three-day event. Often, fans and racers alike were unsure when they would be on the track.
“This format will guarantee fans who come to the Main Event will see the top riders compete in an action filled 3 and a half hour showcase,” said ISOC Marketing Director Andy Groebner. “Just like supercross, the format will ensure fans will see each pro perform at least twice on a bigger track with qualifying and finals featuring more laps.”
Scott Lorentz, the Director of Operations for ISOC agrees. “The days of spectators spending the entire weekend at the track are gone. By creating a tight, action packed show on Saturday night allows race fans, particularly families, to see a great show and not commit an entire weekend at the track.”
The second half of the new format equation is safety. By dividing up the Pro and Semi-Pro riders from the support class riders, track technicians can alter the course for different riding styles.
“Safety is always our number one concern,” said Bodley. “This format will allow us to knock down some of the more technical areas of the track for Sunday support class racing. We want to grow this sport and we believe keeping the racing fun and injuries to a minimum for the younger and less experienced racers will do that.”
What you need to know:
What: AMSOIL Championship Snocross Series, the Biggest Names Go Bar to Bar on a National Stage.
When: December 12 -14
Where: Ironwood, MI Gogebic Community College, Mt. Zion, E-4946 Jackson Road Ironwood, MI 49938
Schedule of Events:
Friday: 7pm-8pm: Monster Energy Slednecks Invasion Tour.
Saturday: 4pm – 7:30pm: Pro and Semi-Pro Main Event; 9:30am gates open with support class qualifying.
Sunday: 9:30am: Gates open remaining support class racing.
Tickets:
Daily Prices: Weekend Prices:
Kids (6 – 11): $5 Kids (6 – 11): $10
Teens (12 – 18): $10 Teens (12 – 18): $20
Adults (19 +): $15 Adults (19 +): $30
Free Parking
Who: Professional snocross and freestyle athletes including:
- Tucker Hibbert Multiple X-Games gold winner, current points leader.
- Levi LeVallee Winner of two gold medals at last year’s winter X Games.
- Paul Thacker – World record long-distance jumper and freestyle athlete.
Plus: Demo rides for the entire family and giveaways.
- Demo rides aboard the latest from Yamaha
- Kids 120 demo rides with a chance to win a 120 Arctic Cat for everyone who rides courtesy of Arctic Cat and Christian Brother Motorsports. Winner announced Sunday at 2:00pm.
- Every weekend pass holder is eligible to win a new Arctic Cat F6 snowmobile. Winner announced Sunday at 2:00pm.
- Free Pit Passes ($10 value) from area Polaris dealers while supplies last.
For tickets, lodging and more details visit the national tour schedule link – NATIONAL SCHEDULE
will the races go on this weekend?