From left: Karen Curry, Scott Werling (standing), Bill Utter (standing,), and Jenelle Taylor rode their snow toys to watch the day‚s events.
(Photo by Chelsea Los)

Syracuse Lake was a serene combination of sun and ice when locals began to arrive Saturday morning. It is the scene for Syracuse’s annual snowmobile races, hosted by the Kiwanis.

Just off the beach area, the lake will packed with ATVs, trailers, an assortment of off-road toys and most importantly, all kinds of snowmobiles. There was even a dirt bike out on the ice with studded tires, reportedly doing wheelies on the frozen terrain. Spectators walked, rode and slid their way onto the thick ice and lined themselves along the drag strip to watch men, woman and children race their snow toys down the icy lanes.

Radar runs.
(Photo by Chelsea Los)

The event was split into two events-radar runs and drag races. From 10 a.m. on, snowmobiles of all shapes and sizes could test their own speeds on a long strip of ice. Many of the riders went multiple times in a race against themselves, pushing their machines a little more each time. A little after 11 a.m., riders began lining up to race each other in a drag strip fashion. Riders look forward to this event each year, but it’s the small town camaraderie that keeps spectators and riders coming back.

Lacey Woodiel, Syracuse, was at the event with her husband John Woodiel and their children, along with several friends from Plymouth. This was their second year at the event. She and her husband brought a small fire pit along with them to keep warm on the frozen lake. “Everyone was great,” said Lacey, “We met a lot of people that were impressed with the fire and needed a minute to warm up.” John said the best part of this event is, “the fellowship and community,” along with “Being out there in the middle of winter with friends, family and neighbors.”

Lacey said even the children have a great time. “They love [the races]. Josie (child) made her own snowmobile last year in the snow they piled up on the ice.” John offered his advice for those looking forward to the event next year, “Bundle up in layers and bring fire.”

For others, being out on the lake was a first. Brandon Klosowski, 23, had never set foot on a frozen lake before spending the day at the snowmobile races. “It was a lot louder than I expected it to be,” said Klosowski. “Hearing the ice crack was a little scary at first but once I got use to it I started to walk around more and play with the kids.”

For safety precautions, Syracuse EMS and Syracuse Police were out on the ice should anything happen. There was also a Syracuse Fire Department airboat parked on the beach.

Walking around at the event, many people were there spending time chatting with friends and watching snowmobiles fly by. A large majority of the spectators at the races said they would also be continuing the fun at Oakwood’s winter events, as well.