Under warm and sunny skies, the 7th edition of CMEQ’s Provincial Championship water snowmobile races were held this past weekend in Lanaudière. Close to 1,000 spectators applauded the efforts of some forty participants in the drag, oval track and jumps categories.
A main feature of the event was the availability of helicopter tours from which the events could be viewed and filmed. On the ground, restaurant and refreshment facilities were available.
An added feature for this 7th edition was the appearance of Rémi Voyer, a well-known jet-ski professional, member of Québec Jet-Ski who entertained the audience with his signature free-style figures.
Water snowmobile racing is a recognized and well organized sport. The 7th edition of the Provincial Championship was a first for me, without any doubt I was entertained and impressed as my racing instincts went wild. Don’t be surprised if you see me as a participant in a future edition.
The promoter for the event was André Fortier has been actively involved in snowmobile water racing for the past 25 years. Sincere congratulations to Andre and his team for an extremely well done event.
Racers came from all over Québec and the USA, including professional racer Scott Mosher from Vermont. The various events kept spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the competition.
Throughout this season, well-known Québec snowmobile enthusiast Robert Bilodeau has claimed many victories including this weekend’s 600 cc drag event. Mr Bilodeau is the FCMQ administrator for the Saguenay/Lac Saint Jean region as well as being the owner of the Auberge Presbytère in Hébertville.
The final leg of the 2012 season will be held on September 8 in Frampton (St-Joseph de Beauce). Sleds.com will be in attendance. For the full calendar of events and race results, please go to www.cmeqracing.ca
We would like to give special thanks to Michel Brault for bringing his stunning photos to this article. For the complete photo album please go to www.pbase.com/bromic/lavaltrie_2012
