ST. JOHNSVILLE, N.Y. (Mar. 31, 2010) – Even at the regional level of snowmobile racing, earning back-to-back championships is no easy task.
Just don’t tell that to the folks at Hulten Speed Sports. After Danny Poirier dominated the Rock Maple Racing (RMR) [...]]]> Hulten Speed Sports nets 10 class titles in 2009-10 RMR snocross season

ST. JOHNSVILLE, N.Y. (Mar. 31, 2010) – Even at the regional level of snowmobile racing, earning back-to-back championships is no easy task.
Just don’t tell that to the folks at Hulten Speed Sports. After Danny Poirier dominated the Rock Maple Racing (RMR) circuit in 2008-09, many wondered how the team would top that feat in 2010.

Enter one Bobby ‘The Rage’ LePage, of Duluth, Minnesota. LePage brought national experience to HSS, and it showed all season long. LePage fought ski-to-ski all winter with chief rival Mathieu Morin, and when it came down to the wire — he had what it took to succeed.

LePage entered last weekend’s season finale trailing by just one point in Pro Open and two in Pro Stock. To earn the titles, he would have to win his heats and capture both finals. In one of the most focused efforts ever witnessed in RMR, he pulled it off. Bobby earned both class titles, giving Hulten Speed Sports and Polaris their second straight RMR Pro championship.

“It all came down to who wanted it the most,” LePage said. “Mathieu made me work hard for these titles. To be tied in race wins and separated by just one and two points going into the finale was wild. I’m happy to have pulled it off, it feels great. I need to thank Ray & Lisa for providing top-notch sleds all season, Polaris, and our sponsors for their support. It was a blast.”

Not to be ignored is the strong effort put forth by Poirier, a key player at Hulten Speed Sports. The famed ‘Canadian Blast’ swept the Pro finals in Farmington, NY, and finished third in both the Stock (by a mere two points) and Open final standings. He is easily one of the most well-trained, talented and consistent riders in northeastern snocross history.

Along with an aggressive title fight in the Pro ranks, HSS rider Jake Scott kept the team in the spotlight with his amazing consistency in Rock Maple’s Sport division. Scott, of Port Jefferson, NY, led the points all year and built a lead large enough that he could miss the final race.

That’s right, Jake won the Sport Super Stock (Saturday & Sunday classes) and Sport 600 championships without running the final event at Findley Lake. For the season finale, Scott chose to try his hand at the super-competitive Semi-Pro division. In a fine display of determination, Scott rebounded from an early race off-sled incident and passed 12 sleds, finishing third in his first Semi-Pro Open final. Think the future is bright for Jake? Yea, we think so, too.

While LePage and Scott were locked into their respective battles, another young athlete was making a name for himself in the Junior division. Ed Bandel, of Mohawk, NY, wanted to take over for Scott as the rider to beat on any given Sunday. He met that goal with ease, winning just about everything in sight. Between Saturday and Sunday classes, “Fast Eddie” won five titles to top all riders. Congratulations to Eddie and the entire HSS team of riders.

All together, the team earned an amazing 10 class titles with three different riders.

“Ray and I are extremely proud of the success our riders had all season,” said Lisa Hulten, co-owner at HSS. “Everybody worked so hard to win races and class titles, it’s nice to see it pay off in such a big way. Bobby, Danny, Jake and Eddie were fast and smooth all year. That’s all we can expect as team owners. I can’t wait to celebrate these hard-earned titles at the banquet.”

Hulten Speed Sports could not have enjoyed such a successful season across the board without the help of many. First and foremost, we have to thank Tom Rager and the good folks at Polaris for all the support. We take pride in being the eastern factory team, and are very proud to have earned back-to-back titles on the “red sleds.” It takes horsepower and a superior suspension to win snocross championships, and Polaris has both categories covered.

Along with Polaris, HSS would also like to thank Woody’s, Walker-Evan Racing, Boyesen Reeds, Sno-Stuff, C&A Pro skis, Straightline Performance, Frogz Skin, Camoplast, DP Brakes, 139designs, Pit-X, Klim, AFX, Scott Goggles, Extreme Exposures, HMK and Island Water Sports. Without support from these fine companies, the team would not be as competitive.

To keep up with off-season news, visit them online at www.hultenspeedsports.com.

FINDLEY LAKE, N.Y. (Mar. 29, 2010) – Veteran snowmobile racer Bobby LePage had only one option heading into last weekend’s season finale. Trailing his weekly rival Mathieu Morin by just one point in Pro Open and two in Pro [...]]]> LePage sweeps Pro finals at Rock Maple Racing snocross finale
Todd, Woskob split Semi-Pro finals

FINDLEY LAKE, N.Y. (Mar. 29, 2010) – Veteran snowmobile racer Bobby LePage had only one option heading into last weekend’s season finale. Trailing his weekly rival Mathieu Morin by just one point in Pro Open and two in Pro Stock, his goal was to win both finals.

With determination in his eyes and well-prepared sleds in his grasp, LePage went out and swept the Pro finals as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed the ninth and final round on the 2009-10 snocross series Sunday afternoon at the beautiful Peek’n Peak Resort & Spa. Unofficially, LePage locked up the 2010 RMR Pro championships.

In Saturday’s grueling 20-lap Pro Open final, LePage (Hulten Speed Sports/Polaris), of Hermantown, MN, grabbed the holeshot and led all the way. Poirier slotted into second at the start and stayed there until Morin (Ingles Performance/Ski-doo) powered by at the end of lap five. Morin, of Val D’Or, QC, tried to reel in LePage but settled for second (by an 18-second margin), while Poirier filled out the podium. The final point tally and class champions within all five divisions will be official later this week.

LePage grabbed the holeshot again in Sunday’s Pro Stock final (15 laps) and never looked back. Morin challenged LePage on the outside at one point, and the two sleds made contact. Morin’s sled lost a side panel, which led to a disqualification after 10 laps. Danny Poirier took over the second position and hung there to the end. Multi-time champion Jason Boron (D&Z Racing/Ski-doo) capped another solid season with a strong third place finish.

Defending Pro Vet champion Joe Lemieux made it back-to-back titles as he claimed Sunday’s final. Fellow Vermonter Rene Desrochers chased Lemieux across the line in second, while Hubbard, Ohio-based rider Jason Riffle was third on an Arctic Cat. Desrochers bounced back to claim Sunday’s Plus 35 Masters final, while Riffle (second) and Scott Clauson (third) filled out the podium.

Morganne Sterl made the long haul from southern New Hampshire worthwhile Sunday, as she won the Pro Women final. New York native Paige Calderwood powered her way to second place at the finish, while Steffanie Lemieux completed the top three.

In Semi-Pro action at Findley Lake, Corin Todd and Ash Woskob both earned final round wins. Todd, of Otego, NY, led a stellar field across the line to win Saturday’s 12-lap Open final. Woskob settled for second, while Sport division standout Jake Scott made an impressive debut in Semi-Pro with a head-turning third place finish. Point leader Lincoln Lemieux took nasty tumble on the first lap, causing injury to his thumb and wrist. Yet by winning his qualifying heats earlier in the day, he still managed to clinch the title.

Woskob, of Tyrone, PA, made it a clean sweep for D&Z Racing on Sunday as he held off Todd and points contender Michael George to claim top honors in Semi-Pro Stock. Scott just missed another podium in fourth, while New York veteran Cody Flach rounded out the top five.

Once again, a young man from New Jersey stole the spotlight in Sport division action. Jesse James Bonaduce held off ‘Mongoose’ Mike Billow and Chris Ingles to win Saturday’s Super Stock final. On Sunday, Vermont-based veteran Leo Patenaude outgunned Edward Bandel (no easy task) and Chris Coleman for top honors in Super Stock, while Bonaduce claimed the Stock 600 final. With Jake ‘The Snake’ out of the picture, these young racers were anxious to showcase their talents.

Hunter Nelson was as hot as a blowtorch in Junior division action at Peek’n Peak. The gifted young athlete from Hamlin, NY, tallied an impressive five final rounds victories over two days. On Saturday, Nelson claimed three wins in 380cc and 600cc classes, then added two more on Sunday in Stock 600 classes. Connor Roscoe was impressive over the weekend, as well. The young racer from Cheshire, CT, earned a third in Saturday’s Jr. 14-15 Stock 600 final, then capped a successful outing with a solid second place run in Sunday’s battle. Roscoe started out on 120cc sleds in 2002 and is working his way up the racing ladder with determination.

Other final round winners over the weekend at Peek’n Peak include Josh Gessinger (Plus 25 Stock); Will Fletcher (Sport 500); Montana Jess (Jr. 10-13 Stock 380 & 600); David Camara III (Jr. 8-10 300 Freestyle Saturday) Bradley Tatro (Jr. 8-10 300 Freestyle Sunday); Chris Froio (Trail 600 Saturday); and Brandon Bell (Trail 600 Sunday).

Rock Maple Racing would like to thank the entire staff at the Peek’n Peak Resort & Spa for hosting the 2010 season finale. Running a race at such a first class facility is indeed a pleasure.

RMR would also like to thank each and every race team that filed an entry for any race during the last eight seasons. Without all of you grassroots racers, this sport would be doomed. There is also a long list of current and former sponsors who made it all possible, and we truly thank all of them for their support.

A special thanks must also go out to the manufacturers who provide sleds and technical assistance to several teams. Their support is vital to the sport’s future.

For complete results in all classes from Findley Lake, go to www.rockmaple.com. With last Saturday’s announcement that Connecticut businessman Robert Roscoe has taken over the helm at RMR, a new era is set to begin on the northeastern snocross scene.

The 2010-2011 race schedule will be posted online when it is completed by mid-to-late summer. Until then, we wish you all a safe and enjoyable off-season

DERRY, N.H. (Mar. 9, 2010) – After a successful eight-year run that saw regional snowmobile racing attain new heights, officials at Rock Maple Racing (RMR) have announced a decision to sell the circuit at the end of this season.

RMR was founded [...]]]> RMR snocross circuit available for purchase at conclusion of 2009-10 season

DERRY, N.H. (Mar. 9, 2010) – After a successful eight-year run that saw regional snowmobile racing attain new heights, officials at Rock Maple Racing (RMR) have announced a decision to sell the circuit at the end of this season.

RMR was founded by Don and Nancy Finck in the early 1990s. In May of 2002, New Hampshire businessmen Chuck and Mark Minasalli purchased RMR and their passion for snocross was soon clear. Through hard work and a significant investment, the Minasalli brothers lifted Rock Maple into the 21st century.

Since day one of the Minasalli era, Tara Saxton, Chuck’s stepdaughter, has been involved with day-to-day operations at RMR and has been a fixture at the track. Yet in recent years, she’s also taken on new responsibilities in KTM Properties, another of Minasalli’s business holdings. In the current business climate, her focus needs to be on growing KTM to ensure the family heritage remains successful.

The decision to sell Rock Maple has been difficult, yet the current president knows how life’s priorities often change.

“The last eight seasons have brought both challenges and wonderful friendships,” Saxton said. “This wasn’t an easy decision to accept, but our family carried the sport forward for eight years and now it’s time to turn over the reigns.”

The winter of 2009-10 was Rock Maple’s 18th consecutive season of snocross here in the northeast. During the eight-year Minasalli era, the sport grew tremendously until the economy went soft and things leveled out. By taking the circuit to new venues, the family exposed snocross to new markets and expanded the fan base.

Everyone associated with Rock Maple today, from Chuck and Mark Minasalli to Tara Saxton and the entire staff, all share the same hope that Rock Maple Racing will live on. As our nation’s economy begins to rebuild, all powersports entities will thrive once again thanks to a basic need to recreate.

Americans love snowmobiles and racing, that’s why Don and Nancy started it all nearly 20 years ago in the first place.

“I don’t think anybody who enjoys snowmobiling or snocross racing wants to see Rock Maple disappear off the map,” added Saxton. “My family hopes that somebody with a passion for racing, good business sense and a love for promotion will take over the helm. My Dad and Uncle loved the sport so much after racing a while that they bought the circuit. They took the sport to a higher level, now we hope to see it continue and prosper well into the future.”

Anyone interested in making a serious inquiry about purchasing Rock Maple Racing can contact the office at 603-437-2400. Saxton and the Minasalli family would like to thank all race teams, sponsors and staff members for supporting the series. Without all of you, there would be no Rock Maple. Any touring series is driven by talented racers, and there was never any shortage during the Minasalli era.

To follow the 2009-10 points battles as they wind down, go to www.rockmaple.com.

BARTON, VT (Mar. 1, 2010) – All season long, they’ve battled side-by-side and nose-to-tail for championship points, wins and bragging rights.

Veteran snowmobile racers Mathieu Morin and Bobby ‘The Rage’ LePage have thrilled fans in New York, New Hampshire and the province [...]]]> LePage, Morin split Pro finals in Barton for Rock Maple Racing snocross series

BARTON, VT (Mar. 1, 2010) – All season long, they’ve battled side-by-side and nose-to-tail for championship points, wins and bragging rights.

Veteran snowmobile racers Mathieu Morin and Bobby ‘The Rage’ LePage have thrilled fans in New York, New Hampshire and the province of Quebec. Last weekend, the dynamic duo took their high-flying war to Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom for another amazing display.

Morin and LePage split the Pro finals again over the two days, as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed Round 7 on the 2009-10 snocross schedule Sunday afternoon at the Orleans County Fairgrounds.

Morin (Ingles Performance/Ski-doo), of Val D’Or, QC, slotted into second at the start of Sunday’s Pro Open final behind LePage, then powered by before halfway and pulled away to a convincing win. LePage hung on for second while defending champion Danny Poirier was third.

LePage (Hulten Speed Sports/Polaris), of Hermantown, MN, out-gunned Morin to win Saturday’s Pro Stock final, while multi-time champion Jason Boron filled out the podium.

Local favorites Joe and Steffanie Lemieux were successful at their home track over the weekend. The talented father/daughter team from nearby St. Johnsbury earned final round wins in Pro Vet (Joe) and Pro Women (Steffanie) on Sunday, while another local rider claimed the Plus 35 Masters final. Newport native Rene Desrochers claimed that class in front of friends and family, while Maine-based Jason Soucy and New York rider Leroy Walker filled out the podium.

In Semi-Pro action at Barton, Corin Todd and Michael George each recorded final round wins. Todd, of Otego, NY, out-gunned George and Lincoln Lemieux to claim Saturday’s Open final. George bounced back with a stellar performance Sunday, grabbing the holeshot in Semi-Pro Stock and running off to victory ahead of Lemieux and Todd. George, of Pine Plains, NY, has been on fire the last few weeks, notching his second career Semi-Pro win Sunday.

Action in the Sport division also provided some excitement in Barton. Jesse James Bonaduce looked to have Sunday’s Super Stock 600 final well in hand, until a bobble in the rhythm section with just two laps remaining allowed Jake Scott to take command and steal the win. Bonaduce, of Somerville, NJ, found redemption in the Stock 600 final, however, leading the entire race forcing Scott to settle for second.

Whether it’s “Mongoose” Mike Billow or the famed ‘Jesse James’ giving chase, it seems as if ‘The Snake’ doesn’t always get away unscathed.

In Junior division action over the weekend, Montana Jess and Edward Bandel continued their 2010 hot streaks. Jess, ( the famous Flyin’ Onion), of Westminster, Mass., held off arch-rival Hunter Patenaude in Saturday’s 10-13 380cc Fan and Stock 600 Fan finals, then won Sunday’s 600 Fan tussle over Nate Newland and Wade Acker. Bandel, of Mohawk, NY, won one final Saturday (14-15 Stock 600) and three more on Sunday (14-15 Stock 600, 16-17 Stock 600, 14-17 Stock 600 Fan) to cap a fabulous outing in northern Vermont.

Other final round winners over the weekend in Barton include Joe Bishop (Sport 500); Daryl Nutting (Plus 25 Stock); Leo Patenaude (Jr. 16-17 Stock 600 Sat.); Katelyn Olsen (Jr. Girls 10-13 Stock 600 Fan); Kassie Thibodeau (Jr. 8-10 300 Freestyle Sat.); Tucker Olsen (Jr. 8-10 300 Freestyle Sun.); Sam Potter (Trail 600 Sat.); and Jared White (Trail 600 Sunday).

Rock Maple Racing would like to thank the Orleans County Fair Association for hosting last weekend’s event. Local support from good folks like Desrochers Construction of Newport who helped moved snow for the track is greatly appreciated. Without those efforts, the races would not have been a reality.

For full results in all classes from Barton or to learn more, go to www.rockmaple.com.

With a little cooperation from the weather, teams will return to Barton again this coming weekend, March 6-7, for the next to last points race of the season.

DERRY, N.H. (Feb. 26, 2010) – In response to input from race teams and driven by a desire to satisfy fans who keep snocross thriving, officials at Rock Maple Racing (RMR) have announced a major change in the [...]]]> New format in Pro and Semi-Pro classes starts this weekend
for Rock Maple Racing snocross series

DERRY, N.H. (Feb. 26, 2010) – In response to input from race teams and driven by a desire to satisfy fans who keep snocross thriving, officials at Rock Maple Racing (RMR) have announced a major change in the way snocross race weekends will unfold.

Starting at this weekend’s ( Feb. 27-28) event at the Orleans County Fairgrounds, Pro and Semi-Pro teams will compete in one class each day from qualifying races through finals.

On Saturday, teams in Pro Stock and Semi-Pro Open will run two rounds of qualifying, an LCQ (last chance qualifier, if needed) and a final. On Sunday, teams will compete in Pro Open and Semi-Pro Stock. The end result gives fans a chance to see Pro and Semi-Pro riders run a final no matter which day they attend.

From a racer’s perspective, this new format allows each team a chance to focus on their Stock or Open sleds on separate days. The mechanics will have more prep time, and even if a rider has a bad day on Saturday he can rest up and still salvage a good points day on Sunday.

RMR was the last sanctioning body in the industry to run qualifying races on Saturday and finals on Sunday. For many years, that format worked well and fans stayed all weekend. Yet in today’s climate, fans often have to choose one day or the other to attend the races. With this new format, they’ll get to see the top talent run heats and finals, no matter which day works best for their schedule.

“We feel this change in format will be beneficial to both racers and our fans,” said Tara Saxton, President of Rock Maple Racing. “Our racers came to us with this request, backed by reasons for the change. We listened to their concerns and want to make things better for them. We also want to ensure our fans see plenty of intense racing on both Saturday and Sunday.”

This weekend’s event is the first of two back-to-back points races at the Orleans County Fairgrounds. Recent snowfall and more in the forecast should bode well for successful shows. Unlike most winters when Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom would typically be covered with two or three feet of snow, much of region had been in a snow-less lull prior to this week.

Yet when the snowmobile racers needed it most, that white gold fell on the Kingdom. Only three points races remain (including this weekend) on the 2009-10 schedule, meaning it’s now or never for those looking to secure a title. Less than 15 points separate Bobby “The Rage” LePage and Mathieu Morin in the Pro classes, so anything can happen.

For racers in the Sport, Junior and Women divisions, your weekend will remain the same. While every team within these divisions is highly-valued by RMR, this change in format was primarily designed to make the weekend flow better for Pro and Semi-Pro teams. All support classes will still enjoy final rounds on Sunday as part of an exciting ‘Main Event’

format.
Spectator gates open at 8 a.m. each day, with racing getting under way promptly at 9 a.m. Admission is $12 per day for adults, or $20 for a weekend pass. For more information, go to www.rockmaple.com.

DERRY, N.H. (Feb. 23, 2010) – After a five-week stretch with little or no snowfall across much of the northeast, Mother Nature has lined up a one-two punch this week that will allow snowmobile enthusiasts in northern Vermont a chance to witness some exciting [...]]]> Orleans County Fairgrounds next stop for Rock Maple Racing snocross series

DERRY, N.H. (Feb. 23, 2010) – After a five-week stretch with little or no snowfall across much of the northeast, Mother Nature has lined up a one-two punch this week that will allow snowmobile enthusiasts in northern Vermont a chance to witness some exciting racing.

As trail clubs throughout the region grease their groomers and try to salvage a few more weeks of riding, race teams are preparing for the season’s final two events. Riders in the hunt for the coveted points titles are revved up, as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) invades the Orleans County Fairgrounds in Barton this weekend, Feb. 27-28, for two days of high-flying snocross.

Spectator gates open at 8 a.m. each day, with racing getting under way promptly at 9 a.m. Admission is $12 per day for adults, or $20 for a weekend pass. Children age 10 and under will be admitted free with a paying adult. Pit passes valid through the entire weekend are available for an extra $10.

Leading the charge into Barton are Pro riders Bobby LePage and Mathieu Morin. LePage, of Hermantown, MN, has five wins to his credit and carries a slim three-point lead over Morin in Pro Open. In Pro Stock, LePage has a slightly more comfortable margin of 11 points. Defending champion Danny Poirier has been as solid as a rock in third all season, while Jason Stone and multi-time champion Jason Boron fill out the top five.

In the Semi-Pro division, riders to watch include Corin Todd, Lincoln Lemieux, Michael George, Lucas Brunelle and Chris Ackerman. Todd and Lemieux are tied atop the standings in Semi-Pro Open, while George sits just 14 points back. In Semi-Pro Stock, Todd has a seven-point advantage over George while Cody Flach is third. Lemieux, of. Johnsbury, is hot off a victory in last weekend’s prestigious Grand Prix de Valcourt and will be fired up in Barton.

Local favorite Rene Desrochers of Newport will battle against Joe Lemieux of St. Johnsbury in Pro Vet, while Joe’s daughter Steffanie will take on the competition in Pro Women’s action. Along with the high-flying action of Rock Maple’s Pro and Semi-Pro divisions, each day will also feature some great racing from the Sport, Women and Junior classes.

Last year in Barton, Stone earned his first career RMR Pro victory in the Pro Stock final. Poirier chased Stone for 14 laps but settled for second, while Boron finished third. In Pro Open, Poirier grabbed the holeshot and led from start to finish. Quebec invader Eric Belanger, a regular on the SCM circuit, finished second while Boron notched his second podium of the day.

In Semi-Pro action last year, Brunelle and George both earned big wins. Brunelle, of Boucherville, QC, won a wild Open final that saw several riders lose control. George, of Pine Plains, NY, claimed Semi-Pro Stock over Garret Mees and Brad Davis. Mees is now competing on the ISOC national circuit while Davis is out mending a broken leg.

The Orleans County Fairgrounds are easily accessible by and within sight of Interstate 91 in scenic Barton. Deep in the heart of Vermont’s rural but beautiful Northeast Kingdom, Barton and the surrounding communities offer some of the best snowmobiling, hunting and fishing in New England. A visit to this area in the fall can provide a glimpse of Vermont’s brightest colors.

For more information, visit RMR online at www.rockmaple.com.

LOUDON, N.H. (Feb. 22, 2010) – Multi-time snowmobile racing champion Jason Boron and Norwegian veteran Stale Eggen (pronounced Sto-lay Egan) claimed final round wins in the Pro division as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed a non-points event Sunday in the inaugural Sno [...]]]> Boron, Eggen split Pro finals in Loudon for Rock Maple Racing snocross series

LOUDON, N.H. (Feb. 22, 2010) – Multi-time snowmobile racing champion Jason Boron and Norwegian veteran Stale Eggen (pronounced Sto-lay Egan) claimed final round wins in the Pro division as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed a non-points event Sunday in the inaugural Sno Bowl at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

Boron (D&Z Racing/Ski-doo), of Leverett, Mass., jumped out to an early lead in Pro Stock and was never challenged. Swedish athlete Ulf Lif (Team Southside/Polaris) rode a smart race and came home second, while Tim Randall was third. In Pro Open, Boron got the holeshot and checked out on the field once again. Yet with just two laps remaining, Eggen slipped by and held off the famed “Iron Man” to take the win. Boron settled for second, while Randall capped a stellar weekend with another third-place run.

Maine-based rider Jason Soucy had a strong outing in Loudon, holding off Gene Robinson for top honors in the Plus 35 Masters final. Steffanie Lemieux carried the momentum she built the previous weekend into another Pro Women victory, with weekly rivals KC Anderson and Martha Wells filling out the podium.

In Sport division action at Loudon, Aaron Adams and Whitney Covill were on top of their game. Adams, of Avon, Maine, out-gunned Covill and Jared Catlin to claim Saturday’s Super Stock final. Covill, of Pittsburg, NH, bounced back to claim Sunday’s final while Catlin and Adams settled for second and third respectively.

Along with the usual classes for riders of all ages and ability levels, RMR also hosted New England’s first-ever Adaptive Snocross races in Loudon. On Saturday, the four previously profiled drivers (Ryan Begin, Jim Crumb, Dave Dillabough and Richard Curtis) were joined by two RMR regulars who are coming off major spinal injuries.

Robert Graeber, of Willow, AK, sustained severe injuries two years ago while making his debut in the Pro division. Michaela Lemieux, of Bennington, VT, had a bad accident the same season but is attempting to fight her way back into contention.

While Graeber isn’t nearly as fast as he was prior to his crash, his skills carried him to victory in Saturday’s Adaptive final. Lemieux stayed on the throttle and came home second, while Dillabough wound up third. On Sunday, Graeber prevailed once again with Lemieux and Curtis filling out the podium. RMR is proud to have provided a safe place to race for these highly-determined individuals. Their drive to compete and succeed should be inspiring to us all.

Other final round winners over the weekend in Loudon include Cameron Drouin (Sport Stock 600 Saturday, Sport 500 Sunday); Jarett Catlin (Sport Stock 600 Sunday); Martha Wells (Women Stock 600 Sunday); David Camara (Jr. 8-10 300 Freestyle Sunday); Glynn Desilva (Plus 25 Stock Sat.); Lyle Turtlott (Plus 25 Stock Sun.); Jeff Whiton (Trail 600 Sat.); and Jared White (Trail 600 Sunday).

Rock Maple Racing would like to thank Jerry Gappens and the entire staff at New Hampshire Motor Speedway for hosting the inaugural Sno Bowl. As New England’s largest sporting facility and home to NASCAR stars twice each year, it was an honor to race there.

For full results in all classes from the Sno Bowl or to learn more about RMR, go to www.rockmaple.com.

SALEM, N.H. (Feb. 15, 2010) – Veteran snowmobile racer Bobby LePage used a handy little broom on his trip to southern New Hampshire last weekend, neatly sweeping the Pro finals as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed another round of snocross competition Sunday [...]]]> LePage sweeps Pro finals in Salem for Rock Maple Racing snocross series

SALEM, N.H. (Feb. 15, 2010) – Veteran snowmobile racer Bobby LePage used a handy little broom on his trip to southern New Hampshire last weekend, neatly sweeping the Pro finals as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed another round of snocross competition Sunday afternoon at historic Rockingham Park.

Sunday’s card completed day three of the inaugural HK Powersports New England Nationals, which brought the excitement of Amsoil Championship Snocross Series (ACSS) racing to northeastern fans on Friday and Saturday.

Tim Tremblay (Pro Stock, Friday night) and Ross Martin (Pro Open, Saturday) earned victories on the International Series of Champions (ISOC) national tour as thousands of fans roared in celebration. A combination of natural and man-made snow was used to build a long, challenging track for the world’s top riders.

LePage (Hulten Speed Sports/Polaris), of Duluth, MN, grabbed the holeshot in Pro Stock and checked out, while weekly rival Mathieu Morin gave chase. Twice during the grueling 18-lap final, Morin (Ingles Performance/Ski-doo) got up to the back bumper of LePage but saw no way around and settled for second. Defending champion and teammate to LePage Danny Poirier filled out the podium with another solid run.

In Pro Open, it was a one-two finish for the Hulten Speed Sports gang as Poirier followed LePage across the line. Morin had two wild off-sled experiences in Turn 3 that put him out of contention. Pro rookie Brennan Berardo (DooTalk.com/Ski-doo) earned his first podium with a solid third-place finish. On a track that favored big, muscular riders, Berardo seemed to excel.

In Semi-Pro action Sunday, RMR veteran Michael George enjoyed the success most observers knew was coming. The gifted young athlete from Pine Plains, NY, chased down and passed Corin Todd to win the Stock final. George tripled his way into the teeth-bashing, nine-mogul mine field, while others preferred the double, double, hope-for-the-best alternative. Todd settled for second while Lincoln Lemieux was third.

Todd (D&Z Racing/Ski-doo) found redemption in the Semi-Pro Open final. He held off a hard-charging George for top honors, while Lemieux notched his second podium of the day. After a full weekend of high-flying, non-stop racing, RMR’s Pro and Semi-Pro riders somehow saved enough energy to cap the weekend with some terrific finals.

Joseph Lemieux (Plus 35 Pro Am) and Martha Wells (Pro Women) kicked things off on Friday evening as the good folks from ISOC mixed a little RMR into their program. Lemieux had come off his sled while leading during qualifying, adding a little extra incentive to win the final.

In Sport division action over the weekend, Jake Scott continued his run at the 2010 points championship. The rising star from Port Jefferson, NY, checked out on the competition in Super Stock 600 on both Saturday and Sunday. Both days, skilled rivals Mike Billow and Chris Ingles settled for second and third respectively. They try their best to chase him down every week, but “Jake the Snake” simply slithers away before their very eyes.

Edward Bandel continued his impressive season with multiple victories in Junior division action at Salem. The young athlete from Mohawk, NY, recorded five final round wins aboard his Polaris to cap a highly-successful outing in the Granite State.

Other final round winners over the weekend at Rockingham Park include Rene Desrochers (Plus 35 Pro Am); Joe Bishop (Sport Stock 500); Daryl Nutting (Plus 25 Stock); Paige Calderwood (Women Stock 600 Sunday); Shawn Smith (Trail 600 Saturday); and Jared White (Trail 600 Sunday).

Rock Maple Racing would like to thank Scott Lorentz and the entire ISOC staff for the hard work and cooperation that went into making the New England Nationals a reality. This long-awaited national event was well-received by fans and will hopefully be an annual tradition for both groups. A special thanks must also go to Ed Callahan and the staff at Rockingham Park for bringing the world’s top snowmobile racers to our own backyards.

For full results in all classes from Rockingham Park or to learn more about Rock Maple Racing, please go to www.rockmaple.com.
Next up for teams and officials on the RMR circuit is a visit to the famed New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon for their inaugural Sno Bowl this weekend, Feb. 20-21. For tickets, go to www.nhms.com.

FARMINGTON, N.Y. (Feb. 8, 2010) – It might be an old, well-worn cliche, but the fact you can’t keep a good man down for long sure is accurate for veteran racer Danny Poirier.

After going winless in the season’s first four events, [...]]]> Poirier sweeps Pro finals at Eastern Nationals for Rock Maple Racing snocross series

FARMINGTON, N.Y. (Feb. 8, 2010) – It might be an old, well-worn cliche, but the fact you can’t keep a good man down for long sure is accurate for veteran racer Danny Poirier.

After going winless in the season’s first four events, the famed ‘Canadian Blast’ swept the Pro finals as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed Round 5 of its 2009-10 snocross schedule at the ISOC Eastern Nationals Saturday evening at the Finger Lakes Gaming Center and Racetrack.

Fans at the Eastern Nationals were treated to points races for both the ISOC national and RMR regional circuits. The program began Friday afternoon and featured ski-to-ski action from the nation’s top racers. In his final race of the season, Tucker Hibbert (Monster Energy/Arctic Cat) notched his 54th and 55th career wins when he swept the ISOC Pro finals.
Poirier (Hulten Speed Sports/Polaris) went flag-to-flag in the 20-lap Pro Stock final, grabbing the holeshot and running off to a huge 10-second victory over runner-up Mathieu Morin and third place Jason Boron. Bobby LePage made contact with Jason Stone, and after the ensuing collision, both riders failed to complete the race.

In Pro Open, Morin (Ingles Performance/Ski-doo) blasted off the line and led the first 12 circuits. Morin’s sled suffered a rare mechanical failure as he worked the 13th lap, while Poirier, who had slotted into second at the start, inherited the lead and never looked back. LePage kept his JoJo Energy Drink No. 244 on-track and brought it home second, while Canadian sensation Iain Hayden claimed third on his factory-backed Yamaha.

Defending Plus 35 Pro Am champion Joe Lemieux held off Greg Weaver and Michael Berghorn to claim Friday night’s final, while daughter Steffanie out-gunned RMR veterans Martha Wells and Paige Calderwood for top honors in the Pro Women final.

In Semi-Pro action Saturday, Nick Pattyn and Lincoln Lemieux both earned final round wins. Pattyn, of Ravenna, MI, rode his Arctic Cat to victory in the Super Stock 600 final, with Brett Nastala second and Corin Todd making a late-race charge up to third. Lemieux, of St. Johnsbury, VT, used superior horsepower and aggressive riding to chase down Pattyn and score his first career Semi-Pro victory in the Open final. Pattyn settled for second while Justin Ochsner (New London, MN) came home third.

Action in the Sport division was also intense at the Eastern Nationals. Jake ‘The Snake’ Scott powered his Hulten Speed Sports Polaris to victory in the first Stock final, while Joe Bishop took top honors in the second tilt. Bishop also won the Stock 500 final to cap a great day.

In Junior division action at Farmington, Edward Bandel led the way with a pair of wins. Montana Jess, Tyler Adams and Leo Patenaude also earned final round wins in front of a packed house. From the youngest junior riders to the rising stars of RMR’s Sport classes, they all got to showcase their talents in front of the sport’s top riders and high-profile team owners.
RMR would like to thank ISOC and the staff at the Finger Lakes Gaming Center for hosting such a world class event. With nice amenities for fans, strong competition and a great track, it was an honor to be part of the show.

For complete results in all classes from the Eastern Nationals, visit the ISOC Web site at www.isocracing.com. Teams and officials from both ISOC and RMR will join forces again this coming weekend, Feb. 12-14, for the inaugural HK Powersports New England Nationals at historic Rockingham Park in Salem, New Hampshire.
To learn more about Rock Maple Racing, go to www.rockmaple.com.

BELMONT, N.H. (Jan. 24, 2010) – Ever since it was announced that Mathieu Morin and Bobby “The Rage” LePage were coming to New England to compete this winter, everyone who follows the sport of snocross figured they would steal the headlines [...]]]> LePage, Morin split Pro finals in Belmont for Rock Maple Racing snocross series

BELMONT, N.H. (Jan. 24, 2010) – Ever since it was announced that Mathieu Morin and Bobby “The Rage” LePage were coming to New England to compete this winter, everyone who follows the sport of snocross figured they would steal the headlines on a regular basis.
Seeing these two well-trained athletes on top of the podium has become a familiar site, as they continue to dominate here in the East. Morin and LePage put on another exciting show Sunday afternoon in southern New Hampshire, splitting the Pro finals as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed Round 4 of its 2009-2010 schedule at The Lodge at Belmont.
LePage (Hulten Speed Sports/Polaris), of Duluth, MN, grabbed the holeshot in Sunday’s Pro Stock final and led the first five laps. Morin (Ingles Performance/Ski-doo) powered his way into the lead on lap six and appeared to be headed for his fifth victory of the season. Yet as the two leaders entered turn 4 with just three of 24 laps remaining, Morin got caught behind Chris Chico on the outside, LePage blasted by on the inside and sprinted to the finish. Morin settled for second while multi-time champion Jason Boron claimed third.
In the Pro Open final, it was all Morin from start to finish. After the disappointment of losing in Pro Stock, he was determined to seal the deal on the mighty Mod sled. LePage slotted into second at the start, but came off his sled in turn 4 on lap six and had to fight his way back to fourth. Defending champion Danny Poirier was smooth all afternoon, piloting his Polaris to second while Boron once again filled out the podium in third.
Pro division rookie Brennan Berardo (DooTalk.com/Ski-doo) raced like a veteran on Sunday. The 17-year-old from Essex, VT, ran near the front for 18 laps in Pro Stock and came home with a solid top-five run. He got off to a strong start in Pro Open, as well and managed to secure another top five after completing 23 of 24 grueling laps on the tight and challenging track. Joseph Lemieux (Pro Vet) and Paige Calderwood (Pro Women) earned final round wins in their respective divisions Sunday. Lemieux, of St. Johnsbury, VT, held off Maine-based Jason Soucy and fellow Vermonter Rene Desrochers for top honors, while Calderwood, of Phoenix, NY, outgunned Melanie Acker and KC Anderson to notch her victory.
Corin Todd and Lucas Brunelle also thrilled the fans in Belmont with their victories in the Semi-Pro division. Todd (D&Z Racing/Ski-doo), of Otego, NY, powered by early leader Ash Woskob on lap eight and went on to record his fourth win of the season in the Open final. Lincoln Lemieux finished three seconds back in second, while Michael George came home third.
Brunelle (Ingles Performance/Ski-doo), of Boucherville, QC, capped a full day of racing as he held off Todd in Semi-Pro Stock. George made it an all-Ski-doo podium as he claimed third. All but nine of the 14 starters completed all 12 laps, while Brunelle’s margin of victory was just a tick over two seconds.
Jake Scott was the man to beat in Sport division action over the weekend. The young athlete from Port Jefferson, NY, claimed Saturday’s Sport Super Stock final over Chris Ingles and Mike Billow, then repeated the performance Sunday as Billow and Jesse James Bonaduce filled out the podium. Joe Bishop piloted his Ski-doo to victory in the Sport Stock 600 final, while Scott settled for second and Billow snagged another third.
In Junior division action over the weekend, Montana Jess registered a hat trick while Edward Bandel, Hunter Patenaude, Leo Patenaude, Wade McPherson, Jayme Lynch and Mason Pierce also earned final round wins. Jess, known in snocross circles as “The Flyin’ Onion,” piloted his Ski-doo to victories on both Saturday and Sunday.
Other final round winners over the weekend in Belmont include Rene Desrochers (Plus 35 Masters); Glynn Desilva (Plus 25 Stock); Steffanie Lemieux (Women Stock 600 Saturday and Sun.); and Jared White (Trail Stock 600 Sunday).
Rock Maple Racing would like to thank event promoter Craig Harmon, Lodge at Belmont general manager Rick Newman, the Belmont Bogie Busters, Bobcat of New Hampshire and everybody who worked so hard to make last weekend’s event such a success. With perfect weather conditions on Saturday and sunshine for most of Sunday, fans turned out in big numbers to enjoy the high-flying excitement of snocross.
Teams and officials from RMR will now enjoy a weekend off before a trip to Farmington, NY, on Feb. 5-6, for the ISOC Eastern Nationals. For full results in all classes from Belmont or to learn more about RMR, visit them online at www.rockmaple.com.