Sledfest returns bigger than ever

SANDPOINT — Crashes, passes and close finishes will be on display as the third annual Schweitzer Sledfest returns to Schweitzer on April 16-17.

With a bird’s eye view, the crowd never misses any of the action, and there will be plenty of snowmobile excitement in store for both days.

This year there will Snocross, Hillcross , Snowbikes and the new Hill Drags. There were almost 100 races over the two-day event last year and that is being expanded to almost 150 this year. The Snocross, Hillcross and Hill Drags are all done on snowmobiles, which keeps the crowd entertained. The hill drags will be run right up the main face of Schweitzer Mountain, in full view of the crowd for all the action.

The Snowbikes keep everyone in awe of this new technology, which is a dirt motorcycle with both wheels removed and a ski attached up front, with a special patented snowmobile track in back.

The Hillcross bumps at the bottom of the course caused the most carnage in past years. The track has been changed to make it more safe and less expensive for these riders who spend all their own funds to bring the crowd awe inspiring moments.

Joe Parsons, an X-Games medalist with awesome snowmobile stunts will be putting on an exhibition both on Saturday and Sunday during racing, but also at a special exhibition planned for right after the races complete on Saturday. There will also be an autograph session with local pro riders from all classes, snowmobile and snowbike. Schweitzer Mountain is going to have Taps open for a great party experience and dinner.

The Idaho National Guard, who is sponsoring Sledfest, will be opening the racing weekend with the landing of a helicopter right on the mountain and a guard presentation for the National Anthem.

Trophies will be provided for all classes, ranging from Snowbikes, to Juniors, to Semi-Pro, to Pro, to Hill Drags. Many first time riders, in both the Snocross and Hillcross will walk up to the podium by placing first, second or third.