Snow has fallen and snowmobile enthusiasts are gearing up once again for the Arcola Optimists Snowmobile Rally. This year's 21st year is looking to be another successful event as weather systems continue to bring in more snow.
On Jan. 25 the day will begin at Prairie Place Hall with a breakfast put on by the fire department at 8 a.m.
Registration ($20) will follow the breakfast lasting until noon. President of the Optimists, Blake Brownridge, explained that this allows for riders to be able to do the trail while getting back in time for the many draws planned.
This year's big draw is sponsored by Arctic Cat with Moose Mountain Leisure of Carlyle supplying the big prize. One of their main fundraisers, this ticket blitz only has 2,500 tickets available and Brownridge encourages interested parties to get their tickets early as last year they were sold out before the day of the rally.
"There's usually a few left, but last year we were sold out before everyone was registered," Brownridge stated. "So, people should try to get them before that day."
First prize this year is a choice between a 2014 Arctic Cat Mudpro 700Ltd EPS, a 2013 Prowler 700 XTX, and a 2014 ZR 6000 Eltigre ES Ltd. Second and third places each have a prize of $1,000 cash.
Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through any Optimist member as well as at a number of businesses around Arcola.
In addition to this large prize draw the Optimists plan to raffle off other big prizes put together by their faithful sponsors, while the Optimists are also able to offer great rider prizes.
"Our tremendous group of sponsors has continually given more prizes, bigger prizes, and better prizes which allows us to get really great prizes for everybody," Brownridge said.
Rules for the day are minimal, follow the posted signage on the trail and make sure the snow machine being used has been licensed and insured for use on the trail. Safety and fun are the two main thoughts of the day.
Following a day out in the fine winter air, which organizers hope won't be too cold, will see the prizes drawn for between 4:30 and 5:30. During this time food will be available and a beer gardens will be open.
As one of their main fundraisers the Optimists are looking forward to another record breaking year and hope to see many people out.
This year funds raised will again be split with groups who help during the day such as the Moose Mountain 4-H Club; but, the portion kept by the Optimists will go towards further theatre renovations as they plan to refurbish the entrance, roof the Optimist/Legion Hall this spring, and of course to those who apply to the Optimists for funding.
Overall plans are coming together, snow continues to fall, and organizers are simply hopeful it won't be too cold on Jan. 25, though dedicated snowmobile enthusiasts will still enjoy the day planned.
"I think everything looks pretty good so far," Brownridge exclaimed. "Mail drops will be starting soon, so keep your eyes open for that and hopefully the weather warms up."
