The name Andrew Ranger likely rings a bell. Whether you’re a racing fan or just peripherally aware of the sport, his name has been synonymous with excellence and dominance in a highly competitive world for decades. Andrew is passionate about anything with a motor, and it shows—his enthusiasm is infectious and undeniable. It’s as if motorsports are part of his DNA, a natural talent so extraordinary it seems almost magical. Pilot for the Paillé Course/Racing team in the NASCAR Canada Series, Andrew is also an avid snowmobile enthusiast. Known for his legendary kindness, he graciously agreed to answer my questions about this hobby he holds dear.
Was snowmobiling a part of your life from a young age?
Andrew Ranger: My father, Robert, who raced dirt tracks for 27 years, bought me my first snowmobile in 1988. It was a Yamaha Snoscoot, which I still have today. In fact, I restored it recently, and my son has also enjoyed it. I just replaced the track and skis on it. There’s no way I’ll part with it—I plan to keep it for a long time.
Back then, we lived across from a lake in Roxton Pond. My cousins, uncles, grandparents, and I would ride snowmobiles all over the place. It was very much a family activity! We were all crazy about snowmobiles and burning gas! I was fortunate to discover motocross and snowmobiling when I was just three or four years old, and those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion.
Does your competitive spirit take over when you’re on a snowmobile, or is it more of a way to unwind?
Andrew: It’s definitely a way for me to relax. Sometimes I go “full throttle”, but I primarily stick to backcountry snowmobiling.
I used to ride trails around Granby and nearby areas. But after discovering the Monts Valin with some friends, I left the trails behind to focus almost entirely on backcountry riding. Yes, backcountry snowmobiling is full of adrenaline and wheelies, but it’s also about riding on frozen lakes, slaloming, and enjoying breathtaking views of majestic landscapes. The feeling it gives me is almost indescribable.
Snowmobiling helps me stay in shape. My buddies sometimes find me annoying because I love taking pictures—it’s my way of capturing those magical landscapes. Backcountry riding also lets me explore remote territories using GPS. I don’t do drugs; snowmobiling is my drug! My friends know the drill: we know when we’re heading out, but we never know when we’ll be back (laughs)!
Your winters are probably less hectic with the NASCAR Canada series on break. I imagine snowmobiling fits perfectly into your schedule?
Andrew: Starting in April, we begin our training sessions, and after that, we’re busy every weekend racing across Canada. However, when fall arrives, my schedule opens up considerably. That said, my Andrew Ranger Academy, which offers the NASCAR racing experience, remains very popular, as the weather is still mild. Once November rolls around, I get excited and start prepping my snowmobile and gear. At the same time, I prepare my chalet in the Monts Valin, where we spend the entire holiday season.
You mentioned earlier that you practise backcountry riding primarily. Do you still ride on trails occasionally?
Andrew: Yes. When my wife, some friends, and I decide to ride on trails, we jokingly call it “fur coat rides”. We’ll start from the Valinouët and head to Auberge du km 31 or the La Chapelle relay for lunch or dinner. That said, I ride backcountry more than 90% of the time.
Do you snowmobile in other areas besides the Monts Valin?
Andrew: Yes. Last year, for the first time, I explored the Monts Groulx. I loved the experience! I never thought we had mountains like the Rockies in Québec. It was a crazy experience! We snowmobiled nonstop for four intense days. I went “wide open” with my 850 Turbo—I’d never experienced anything like it before. However, being based in the Monts Valin, that’s where I mostly snowmobile.
Your ambassador role with Performance NC seems to align perfectly with your image as a motorsports enthusiast. I’m guessing you didn’t hesitate to accept their offer?
Andrew: The people at Performance NC are, first and foremost, passionate about all things motorsports. Whether it’s the Carrier family or anyone involved with the company, they’re all crazy about racing and recreational vehicles. You can see it in all their dealerships across Québec. Plus, the owners have chalets in Valinouët. Over time, we developed a friendship. It’s a very enjoyable partnership, and we share a common passion.
When the holidays come around, shopping is a breeze—I find everything under one roof. And the selection is huge!
I’m also fortunate to have been an ambassador for CKX gear for several years now. I’m very proud of it! I love their apparel because it’s highly functional, of superior quality, and perfectly aligns with my active lifestyle. I also have to mention that I can rely on Martin Remorques in Sainte-Ambroise-de-Kildare for an Ideal Cargo trailer to transport my snowmobiles.
Describe what a perfect snowmobiling day looks like for you.
Andrew: A perfect day for me is one where one or two feet of fresh snow has fallen, without extremely cold temperatures. It gives me insane backcountry conditions where I can do jumps everywhere. I can also do “doughnuts” and “wheelies” on the lakes. Basically, I get to let loose.
A perfect day is also when I’ve burned through all the gas in my snowmobile AND my spare jerry can. That’s when it’s time to head back to the chalet for a good shower and a nice nap. At that point, I know I had a great day.
Do you mentor your son to teach him good snowmobiling practices?
Andrew: My son Jacob already has his own NASCAR car at Sanair. Despite his young age, he has an impressive build. He also plays football and is taller than most kids his age. His ability to ride a snowmobile is phenomenal! It’s in his blood. People are often amazed by his riding skills. He’s very cautious and shows great maturity in his driving. He’s following in my footsteps; his first words were even “Ski-Doo, Ski-Doo”!
One of the reasons I have a chalet in the Monts Valin is the ease of enjoying winter sports. My son, as well as my partner and her kids, all engage in various winter sports. Jacob always wears his “Paillé number 27” jersey and is deeply involved in the world of racing and snowmobiling. For me, family is what matters most. We love sharing our passions, whether it’s sports or recreational activities.
Do you plan to keep snowmobiling even after retiring from racing?
Andrew: Absolutely! I need to “burn some gas!” Whenever I have a quieter period, my partner tells me it’s time to head to the chalet. Even after I retire from racing, I’ll continue snowmobiling. It’s a family-oriented and unifying activity at the chalet. Snowmobiling is a positive outlet; it’s my passion.
In my circle of friends, some are already in their sixties. One of them, whom we nicknamed “the teenager”, looks like a young rebel (laughs). It’s a lot of fun for us. That’s how I envision aging. When I put on my helmet, it’s all about adventure and having a blast, regardless of age.
What are your hopes for the upcoming snowmobiling seasons?
Andrew: My wish is to fully enjoy as much snowmobiling as possible. I also want to continue my ambassador role with companies like Performance NC and CKX. I’d love to see lots of snow over a long winter. If we’re going to have a winter, we might as well have a real one!
Andrew Ranger: Passionate and Genuine
During our conversation, I got to know a truly passionate and genuine individual. It’s a pleasure to talk snowmobiling with Andrew, and he’s more than willing to share his experiences. I want to take this opportunity to wish him amazing snowmobiling adventures with his son Jacob and loved ones. Snowmobiling is indeed a unifying activity, and this family is living proof of that.
