Jackson Hole SnoCross
Annual Jackson Hole SnoCross
By Sean Stevens
This open invitational race sets the scene for an exciting weekend of fun, not only for the racers, but for the entire family. The Jackson Hole SnoCross is one of the most anticipated events on the whole Rocky Mountain Cross-Country Racing Circuit SnoCross Series because it is towards the end of the series and the competition for cumulative points becomes very serious for the pro riders who try to win the championship. This means the riders are more aggressive and eager to throttle hard to the finish.
But, you dont have to be a pro to enter the race. Riders of all abilities are encouraged to enter. Depending on your level of ability, you can enter any of the following categories: Pro, Semi-Pro, Sport, Women Sport, Masters Sport, Junior, and Junior Novice. Pros and semi-pros race for money while the latter race for trophies. Since the Jackson Elks Chapter #1713 sponsors the race, all the money raised goes towards the Jackson Hole Elks Charities. There is a five dollar admission for spectators and kids 12 and under are admitted free.
The race takes place at the rodeo grounds near Snow King Mountain and parking is free. Vic Burri, who is the "Exalted Ruler" of the Jackson Elks Lodge said, "The reason why the Jackson Hole SnoCross is such a success is because we gear this event for the entire family." There's hot food and drinks available for the spectators and another benefit of the race is that it takes place in town, meaning its only blocks away from lodging, restaurants, and town shopping; everything is central.
The race consists of two full days of excitement. Saturday is qualifying day, and the racers who qualify will race in the finals on Sunday for money and trophies. Racers on Saturday have two opportunities to accumulate points. If a racer has a poor finish in the first race, he/she can redeem their points in the second race by finishing higher up.
"The track is a true test of skill," said Mark Franklin, who is one of the head organizers of the race and who also spends one week prior, creating the course. Practice for the racers starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The racers are allowed one lap around the course. The Sport class will have three laps to run. The Semi-Pros are required to run five laps while the pros will run a total of six laps. Everyone racing will be stock except for the pros who can run modified machines.
Aside from the actual races, other events during the weekend are the long jump contest, which earned last years winner a purse of $200. The other fun event is the "Calcutta", which enables spectators to bet on the racers who will race in the finals. Vic advised all to bring their luck and their checkbooks.
Vic says he expects a great turnout for this years race. "We are trying to make this as convenient as possible for all who attend. We have an area where racers can keep their trailers under 24-hour security absolutely free."
Jody Burkes, also a head organizer for the race, agreed. "We had racers and spectators from last year's race say the Jackson Hole SnoCross was the best race out of series by far. Racers also praised the organization for creating the biggest and best track on the circuit." All of these components will create a marvelous setting for the race next March. If you would like some more information regarding the Jackson Hole SnoCross, please contact Mark Franklin (307) 733-9493 or the Elks Lodge in Jackson WY (307) 733-3959.
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