The 2011 Cain’s Quest Snowmobile Endurance Race was easily the toughest and most challenging race so far. A large portion of the route covered new ground and riders had to travel extended durations between rest stops. Also for the first time, it was mandatory for a portion of the race, that teams tow sleighs carrying fuel which brought its own set of challenges. Still, approximately half of all registered teams managed to find their way across the finish line. Some were in worse shape than others, but all were in good spirits. Probably in the best spirits were the top 3 teams. In 1st spot were race veterans Rob Gardner and Rich Knipping from Maine, USA. In 2nd place, from Labrador City, arrived brothers Chris and Gary Travers. In the number three spot, 2009 champions Tim Lessard and Eric Hall also from Maine, USA.
Now, Cain’s Quest offers up a new challenge for 2012. The race date is set for March 17th – 24th and the race route proposes to be the largest Cain’s Quest has ever seen. Although the route heavily depends on snow and ice conditions which can only be determined in the New Year, it is currently slated to take racers through the Labrador north coast as far as Nain with the start and finish in Labrador City, NL.
Organizers anticipate a full roster for 2012 with racers from various parts of Canada and the United States. In 2011, 3 countries were represented at the start line with France making their first appearance. All indications are that there will be more teams from France stepping up to the challenge in 2012.
The prize purse for 2012 is a whopping $70,000 including 2 brand new snowmobiles sponsored in part by Arctic Cat. Registration opens November 7th 2011 and will run until closing January 31st, 2012. For more information on Cain’s Quest, e-mail [email protected].
Follow the race live via satellite at www.cainsquest.com
Contact: Todd Kent-Co Chair-(709)-944-5013 or 5011 PO Box 206, Labrador City, NL Canada, A2V 2K5
