Youth ice racing across the lakes of the Northland - WDIO

During the brisk winter months, the Kids Championship Power Racing Organization East (KCPRO-East) hosts a series of events to get kids on the ice and have some fun. The non-profit, youth ice racing group invites families to race with the intention of teaching kids snowmobile safety while also having fun.
The organization welcomes anyone from age four to seventeen, to join in at any time. Kids are invited to bring their own sleds to participate, and if needed KCPRO-East also has a “TRY-ME” sled. This sled is intended for those who want to give the racing a shot, as this race-ready sled is available to rent (for free) for a day on the ice during a race.
KCPRO-East originated in 1987 in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. At that time, the club consisted of 18-20 race families traveling from the Iron Range to Thief River Falls. Because travel was so widespread, in 1991, the club opted to divide into East and West divisions. This prompted the official creation of KCPRO-East, a non-profit youth ice racing organization, according to the KCPRO-East Website.
Spectators fill the area around the track, as family and friends come to watch and support the races. “I’ve coached and played team sports, and you won’t find an environment better than these kids,” said Steve Roduner, the Vice President of the group. “Any kid wrecks or gets off the track, other kids are running to help them. You will see every dad out there helping each other, help fix their sleds or whatever. So, the camaraderie and the family that we have here is pretty special.”
The season runs throughout January into March, during the winter months. Each race taking place at different lakes across the Northland. KCPRO-East wishes for anyone interested across the northland to reach out, as they have a lot of room for people to join. The current season is seen below.
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