The (I-600) Race is ON!

[JoeRainville]

Gentleman,

Brian Nelson and the USXC has announce that the I-600 Cross Country race is on for 2017, but with some changes from the original Winnipeg to Wilmar plans. Due to snow conditions in central Minnesota, the race will start in Winnipeg on Weds Feb 8th, then race round the TRF 7 Clans Casino on Feb 9th and finish a day early racing from TRF to Bemidji for Friday, Feb 10th.

Friday will also be the Vintage Class day. And this Texan is signed up to run the 621 Liquifire once again. Dustin Erikson has kindly offered to pilot the chase vehicle. It looks like the USXC will man the fuel stop this year, making it a little easier on the support team.

I have two rooms at the TRF 7 Clans Casino if someone needs one, but still need to make reservations in Bemidji. Any of you other Deere guys planning to race or crew? Is our crew chief Todd Strupp going to buy breakfast and keep us in line? Hope to see a few of you guys there, the more the merrier!

-Joe Rainville
#621 Liquifire, I-500 /600 Attempt #4

[JDT]

Not sure what to think about the honorary title of St. Rupp.

But Todd Schrupp will be there. Plan on arriving Thursday afternoon.

Not sure about staying in Bemidji. I actually lived there from 1960-68 and there may still be outstanding warrants.

Looking forward to seeing it again after two years of no snow.

[JoeRainville]

Hey Todd,

Sorry about the typo, I actually do know how to spell "Schrupp" But the Honorary title of "St. Rupp: Crew Chief" kind of fits :>) It will be great to have your join the madness again. Since I haven't raced in 3 years or even ridden a sled in 2, Dustin is quite sure I will provide a fair amount of entertainment. He has this crazy idea I should actually ride my sled a few miles to check out the latest clutch and shock calibration, make sure no parts fall off, and to remind me of how to ride.

Sorry about the warrants. I will bring you a hat to disguise you as Dustin Elder if that helps.

Later Liquidator!
-JDJR

[Cabindweller]

Give It hell Joe!

[Matt]

[JDXspec]

Just remember Joe We will get it (you) broke in the day before the race!

[sledhead16]

How many miles do the vintage guys race joe?

[JDXspec]

Day three of the race which us vintage guys run is from Thief River Falls to Bemidji which is about 90 miles by car. I believe the race course is about 120 miles. Time will tell if Joe makes all 120 lol

[JDXspec]

The word is Rainville is northbound. He may just make it to the race!

[sledhead16]

With time to spare?

[JoeRainville]

I made it...to the drivers meeting even

[sledhead16]

That a guy

[acesillini06]

Go get'em John Deere Joe!! Bring one home for the team!

[fast823]

How did it go?

[JDT]

I am waiting for Joe to write up a recap from his point of view.

But I will say that it is exciting, fun and a great annual adventure.

There were some nice vintage machines at the starting line including a 340-S that was driven by the original owner who ran the very same sled in 1975.
How cool is that? He is 72 years old if I recall correctly.

Dustin and I were waiting at the fuel stop for Matt on his 78 L-Fire and Joe on his 80 L-fire. They both made it to the fuel stop. One on the snow and one in a trailer. Matt finished the race. Congrats Matt.

Looking forward to next year.