BLANDFORD-For the first time, the Blandford Fair is sponsoring a Snowmobile Drag Race on its expansive grounds on North Street.
“The drag race was suggested by individuals involved in the fair as a potential fundraiser,” said Bruce Wyman, longtime president of the Union Agricultural and Horticultural Society that sponsors the Blandford Fair.
The drag race fundraiser is slated Feb. 23 with gates opening at 6 a.m. Registration is planned from 6 to 10 a.m. with racing starting at 8 a.m. In the event of inclement weather, the race will be rescheduled to March 2.
The track is 350 feet with a cool-down area of more than 400 feet.
The categories for participants include “Kiddie” Class, on 120cc snowmobiles, for ages 12 and younger; “Stock” Class, 400cc, 600cc, 601cc and 800cc; “Stock Class Improved,” 400cc, 600cc, 601cc, and 800cc; “Four-Stroke Stock,” and “Vintage-Pre 1987 Single Cylinder,” 340cc, 439cc, and 440cc plus.
Snowmobiles in the stock class must have a factory stock engine with no modifications, however, cool down fittings are allowed and a suspension tie-down is permitted.
For the improved stock class, rules include the stock sled must have the original engine and engine work is permitted “retaining original cc’s.”
Lastly, an “Open” class has been created.
“If you can get it to the race you can run it,” added Wyman.
Throughout the day, a variety of hot foods and beverages will be available, ranging from breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and hot chocolate, to hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, soup and soda. A warming tent is also planned as part of the amenities for the day.
Admission is $10 per person and the cost to race is $25 per class.
“Entrants must register for classes prior to the class,” said Wyman.
As part of the safety rules, a mandatory technical inspection of all snowmobiles will be conducted prior to the start of a race.
With this first drag racing fundraiser on the fair grounds, Wyman and his team are hopeful that area residents will come out and support this event.
“The drag race is a perfect outdoor winter family activity,” said Wyman.
For more details and a complete list of rules, visit https://www.blandfordfair.com or check out The Blandford Fair Facebook page for updates.
