Family Day Weekend Fun

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12th Annual Royal Distributing Cup in Innisfil

Oakwood, ON (February 19, 2020) – Georgian Downs Race Track and Casino in Innisfil, Ontario, was the site for another successful round of racing for Karkoulas Sisters Racing Team.   It was a pleasant experience to be met with warmer temperatures and sunshine for this Family Day weekend, which was full of competition at a location historically known for being bitter cold with high winds.  KSR racers suited up and headed out to practice early Saturday morning and turned on race mode for the remainder of the weekend.

Zoe #502

Zoe struggled most of the weekend with hitting the green light, making for some impressive riding to make some passes and work her way up the pack.  Used to softer snow and technical tracks, the hard pack track the team experienced on Saturday saw Zoe having to adjust her riding style and work to keep up with the front of the pack.  She achieved third place in Transition Girls, but didn’t make it to tech for the Novice 8-10 race. As a result, she was happy to put the day behind her and focus on Sunday’s competition, coming out strong from the start. With milder temperatures on Sunday, the track was softer and more to Zoe’s preference. Her results showed it, with her going 2:2 in Transition Girls and earning a fourth place overall in Novice 8-10. 

Dakota #501

If there was an award for perseverance, Dakota would have earned it without contest for her grit in competition while battling fevers, chills, sore throat and cough… a likely flu.  Given the option both days to sit out this round, without hesitation she shook her head no and with pure determination, she donned her helmet and took her seat on her 2020 Ski-Doo RS.  The day started rough to say the least. When on her first race (Jr Girls), in the first corner she hit some ice and drove off the track, hitting a flag and barrel in the process of re-entering the track.  True to her form, she entered back on the track over half a lap down, and yet she pushed her limits and was able to make up massive time earning her a second place finish. This set her up nicely for her second moto, in which she captured the checkered and continued her first place streak in the class. 

In her second race, Junior 14-17, Dakota’s “hot start” button was stuck down leaving her at a standstill on the line as she watched her competition race off, leaving her in their roost.  Once her sled engaged, she again was forced to make up time in a mere three lap race but succeeded in crossing the line in fourth.  The second moto she achieved 3rd giving her a combined moto final of 3rd place and a spot on the podium.  Sunday saw her feeling even worse than Saturday but determined to get her four races in.  More consistent riding for her, saw her going 1:1 in Junior girls and 3:3 in Junior 14-17, again making podium in both classes. 

Brooklyn #500

KSR’s eldest rider, Brooklyn, had consistent results in Pro Women going 1:1 both days lifting her skis high in the whoop section to make the pass for first.  Sport 600 presented a challenge this weekend. Brooklyn had an outstanding start in the class on Saturday, and lead the race for several laps, coming across the finish line in second place. This put her in a good position for the second moto. Unfortunately, she bobbled in the corner losing control, and with little room between riders, she was unavoidably hit from behind by another rider.  With sheer fortitude she got back on her sled and finished out the race returning to the trailer with bruised and swollen fingers that were clearly protected from a burn by her Deft Family gloves.  Sunday the team decided to have Brooklyn sit the Sport Class out until more comfort and execution of large doubles could be achieved.

 

Bailey Motorsports

Lunch break on Sunday gave the entire Bailey Motorsports Team an opportunity to come together for a group photo.  Who knew at that point that that team would achieve a notable total of 18 podiums in this round of competition?  Well done to all the riders who contributed to those amazing results and special congratulations to Ryan Hunt #729 for winning the Top Gun Shoot out Saturday night, coming home with a $5000 award and impressive bragging rights.

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Ski-Doo, Motul, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, SCOTT Sports, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekvest, 139 designs, Clean Media, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy.

RESULTS: To see full results for the CSRA Series, visit: http://snowcross.com/results-points/

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Podium Finishes for all Three KSR Racers in Valcourt!

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Oakwood, ON (February 10, 2020) – Three riders, three classes, three podiums made for an unexpected but welcome outcome at the esteemed Grand Prix Ski-Doo de Valcourt this past weekend. This Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) / SCMX snocrossco-sanctioned event features riders from Canada, USA, Norway and Finland, and is best known for its massive crowd-pleasing finish line jump. Plus, the weekend offers a spectacular event for riders and spectators alike. With unending access to the often elusive white stuff (in fact, so much snow that racing was cancelled on Friday due to visibility concerns), track designer(s) were able to create one of the best tracks the team has had the pleasure to compete on. Rhythm sections, jumps and cornering options had the riders showcasing their strengths and abilities right to the podium.

Zoe #502
Saturday saw the two youngest racers of the team divided between the transition track and the main track. Zoe and her Mom headed off together to tackle the dedicated track to 120cc and Transition riders. This particular track geared to 120 racers was a race off the line track for the young racer with extremely limited passing options. Zoe struggled in her races with too much throttle, being used to larger technical tracks, causing her to overshoot the first nearly 180 corner. Somehow in her final she was able to calculate two successful passes on a very narrow, nearly single lane track to come away with a second place finish. A podium celebration, impressive plaque and a celebratory “beavertail” ended off the day for the young racer.

Dakota #501
The same day on the main track Dakota (age 13) rode like a boss against an entire field of boys in the Junior 14-15 class. The skill of these young riders never ceases to amaze us, and Dakota’s ability to rise to the competition is impressive. Saturday afternoon Dakota lined up to go green and pushed her limits the entire race, smoothly hitting doubles and speeding through the rhythm section right up until her favourite part of the course – the massive finish line jump. Each lap saw the young rider hitting it faster and farther, a difficult view for her Mom to handle. After all the effort put forth, Dakota was thrilled to take a spot on the podium achieving a third place finish. Although ecstatic with her finish, Dakota returned to the trailer melancholy as that race marked the end of her GPS de-Valcourt experience for the year and she was not ready to be done. Claiming the track was her all-time favorite, she snuck out early Sunday morning during the practice session just to experience it one last time. Her enthusiasm for competition at the GPS de Valcourt was a stark reminder for her parents of what all the hard work and preparation is for.

Brooklyn #500
Sunday saw the team up with the sun for an early morning start to the final day of competition. This time it was the team’s Pro/Am Women racer Brooklyn’s turn to take the track on her 2020 Ski-Doo RS. A solid first moto saw the rider cross in fourth position, a good start to the day. The second moto, Brooklyn took to the track with goals to try different lines and increase speed in approaching the taunting finish line jump in preparation for the final. Unfortunately, in the first corner on the first lap, Brooklyn tangled with another rider and ended up being tossed off the sled. With rapid execution she was able to get back on, start it up and make up lots of time before the checkered flag, coming across in sixth. Later Sunday afternoon, the second last Snowcross race of the program, the Pro Dames lined up for their final. Undeterred from her previous moto unseating, Brooklyn hit the green and dug deep having one of her best rides to date. From the very first corner, mom stated she could feel Brooklyn’s determination right from the viewing platform. Brooklyn approached the jumps and rhythm sections with full commitment maneuvering her sled like an expert. After a solid ride and a few tense moments when approaching lap traffic in the final lap of the race Brooklyn earned her place on the podium in the third position. Coming off the track, Brooklyn’s smile and enthusiasm could be seen beneath her helmet many feet away. Physically exhausted from pushing the limits, Brooklyn was mentally ecstatic.

Bailey Motorsports
KSR would like to extend congratulations to BAILEY MOTORSPORTS Pro Snow Bike riders Yanick Boucher for his first place domination and Ryan Hunt for his third place final in the event. Lastly, congratulations to Hailey Belanger for solid rides in her Pro Dame motos on Sunday, and first time full throttle.

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Ski-Doo, Motul, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, Scott Sports Canada, SCOTT Sports, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekvest, 139designs, Clean Media, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy

RESULTS: To see full results for the CSRA Series, visit: http://snowcross.com/results-points/

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Strong Finishes for Karkoulas Sisters Racing at CSRA Season Opener in Lindsay 

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Oakwood, ON (February 3, 2020) – Team KSR brought in the month of February racing in their Hometown of Lindsay, Ontario, for the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) National Series season opener. The Lindsay Exhibition was the location of the FXR Kawartha Cup, which saw the stands full of excited spectators, including many of the team’s family and friends.  

Saturday was an important race day as many of the specialty class races completed before the Pro show and evening program.  Unfortunately, time wasn’t on their side as KSR racers ran out of time to complete the finals, pushing them to Sunday. Despite that though, KSR racers won several qualifiers, and Dakota #501 was able to compete in her second moto of Jr  14-17 and score top spot on the box.  With racing completed the day, the girls joined their friends up in the stands to watch team mate Ryan Hunt #729, of Bailey Motorsports, battle in the Pro class claiming third spot on the podium! Of note, Ryan also raced in the Pro Snow Bike class this same afternoon and claimed second place in that class.  The grit and endurance displayed to not only attempt but succeed in two Pro classes is commendable. 

 

Brooklyn #500

Sunday was an early start for the team with the drivers meeting at 7:30 am and the green light promptly at 8:00 am.  Brooklyn #500 was the first of the team’s racers to take to the line in the Pro/Am Women class. She was able to set the tone of the morning with a win which she would repeat in that same class later in the morning going 1:1 for Sunday’s program. 

Brooklyn also left her comfort zone and lined up in the Sport 600 class as not only the sole female on the line but one of the youngest racer against a class of high flying men.   She held her own and gained valuable experience. She even found herself qualifying front row for the final on Sunday which is a huge accomplishment, and she rounded out the top ten in the final (awaiting official results). 

Dakota #501

Dakota #501 repeated Brooklyn’s Pro/Am Women results in the Junior Girls class taking the checkered for Saturday’s final and repeating it in Sunday’s motos, finishing 1:1 for the weekend.  In Junior 14-17 she found herself placing first on Saturday, and back on the podium with a combined moto finish of 3rd on Sunday. 

Zoe #502

Zoe #502 battled all weekend long showing she has the determination and competitiveness to move up the snowcross ranks.  Zoe was a rocket off the starting line in Transition girls class and finished up second on Saturday. She is awaiting official results for Sundays final after leading the entire race right to the transponder line with a hard charging teammate Hailey Belanger #574 challenging her the entire moto 2.  It’s great to see them both on the podium 1:2.  In her Transition 1 class, Zoe had strong qualifiers and was able to achieve a 3rd in Saturday’s final and rounded out top 5 on Sunday.  Well done Zoe!

While the team enjoyed a race only 8 minutes from home, they will now spend the next few days getting packed and loaded up to travel to Valcourt, Quebec, for the Ski-Doo Grand Prix, an event that promises to be full of exciting, action packed racing of all sorts.

 

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Ski-Doo, Motul, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, SCOTT Sports, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekvest, 139 designs, Clean Media, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy.

 

RESULTS: To see full results for the CSRA Series, visit: http://snowcross.com/results-points/

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

KSR travels to Shawinigan, Quebec to Race the SCMX Snocross Series

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Oakwood, ON (January 22, 2020) – This past weekend, KSR racers, Brooklyn #500 and Dakota #501 loaded up their 2020 Ski-Doo RS snowmobiles and headed to Shawinigan, Quebec, for their first ever SCMX Snocross event, and the series did not disappoint. The team, along with Bailey Motorsports riders, Ryan Hunt #729 and Hailey Belanger #574, were welcomed to the series with plenty of offers of assistance and support.

Friday was practice day for Brooklyn and Dakota before heading into race day on Saturday. A different series made for different class entrees which saw the two sisters lining up against one another in Dames 1 and 2. Brooklyn entered the first race day dampening down nerves, after not having any opportunity for the light to turn green yet this season. After feeling slightly disheartened from practice day, she was able to dig into her competitive spirit she is known for and hit the light from the start all morning which went a long way for her confidence. In the end she claimed 3rd overall in both Dame classes for the day. Brooklyn was also entered into the Sport lite class 2, where she had an impressive 2nd place finish in the first moto but unfortunately went off the track in the second moto leaving her in 9th overall for the day.

Dakota had some difficulty staying on the track on Saturday, especially while chasing down her older sister. However, even after going off the track, she showed resilience and determination getting back on track and making up positions to leave her 4th overall in Dames 1 and 2. Dakota challenged herself in choosing to race Jr 14-15 against the boys, and represented female racers well, finishing 2nd in the first heat and 4th overall.

Sunday’s race day saw the girls wake up ready to roll. In good spirits, and determined to show what they’ve got they hit the track ready to race. The girls were in separate heats for Dames 1 class and both achieved 2nd place in their respective heats. Brooklyn went on to capture the checkered flag in the final, stepping up on the podium in 1st place, with Dakota finishing 3rd. In the Dames 2 class, Brooklyn went 1st in heat 1 then fell off the track in final finishing 4th overall. Dakota had solid rides going 3-3 and claiming her spot on the podium.

BROOKLYN #500

Brooklyn then proceeded to achieve a 3rd in her Sport Lite 2 class, heat 1 , seeing her lead the majority of the race. She repeated that finish and was elated to stand on the 3rd place podium spot in this category. Her dad was quick to drop an excited text back home to mom saying “BK is back!” When asked her feelings about the weekend, Brooklyn said, “First weekend of the year and it was definitely one to remember. I am very happy with my performance”.

DAKOTA #501

In Dakota’s Jr 14-15 she had solid rides in her heats and achieved a 5th place finish in the final. Dakota said, “I had a great race weekend in Shawinigan. The track was really cool and had some big jumps.”

The team would like to send out a special thanks to the SCMX organizers who put on an enjoyable event and experience for our racers to enjoy.

BAILEY MOTORSPORTS

Congratulations to Ryan Hunt of Bailey Motorsports for his first place finishes in the Snowbike class, and to Hailey Belanger for her solid rides and multiple top five heat races.

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Ski-Doo, Motul, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, SCOTT Sports, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekvest, 139 designs, Clean Media, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy.

RESULTS: To see full results for the SCMX Snocross Series, visit: https://scmxsnocross.com/

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

PHOTO CREDIT: Michel Brault

Opening Race Weekend at The Compound Muskoka

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Karkoulas Sisters Racing Achieves Podium Finishes

Oakwood, ON (January 9, 2020) – This past weekend marked the official start to the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) racing season in Bracebridge, Ontario. This Regional race was held at the impressive “The Compound Muskoka” a riding and practise facility equipped with plenty of snow for a technical and demanding track.

Zoe #502

The two younger KSR racers, Dakota (No. 501) and Zoe (No. 502) raced in 4 classes over the weekend. Zoe, age 10, is the final KSR rider racing in the Transition categories for the 2020 season, racing both Transition 1 (8-10) and Transition Girls (8-13). Zoe was full of pre-season butterflies not yet having the opportunity to line up on a starting line this season. Despite this, she was quick to harness those butterflies and turn ‘beast mode’ on when it came time to race. Zoe lined up for her first race of the day, hit a perfect starting light to take the hole shot, and lead the race from flag to flag. When it came time for her second moto of that class, she did a perfect repeat to go 1-1 in Transition girls and take the overall win. Zoe had a great start in the Transition 1 as well, getting 2nd in the first moto and after a battle into a corner on the first lap found her off the track, she rode hard to work her way back up through the pack to 5th. The combined motos was good enough for Zoe to earn a starting position on the front row of the final. With 15 sleds in the final there was little room for error. Zoe rode fast and smart and had a great battle with a fellow racer for most of the final race. In the end, Zoe found herself capturing a podium spot and impressive 3rd place finish.

Dakota #501

Dakota, age 13, came to the track still beaming from her ISOC win in November at the Duluth National and was ready to start racing in Canada. This season Dakota has decided to challenge herself and move up to the Junior ranks, specifically Junior Girls (14-17) and Junior (14-17). Not to be out done by her “little” sister, Dakota repeated Zoe’s results by winning Junior Girl with flag to flag wins in both motos. She lined up in her Junior mixed class motos on her 2020 Ski-Doo 600 RS ready to prove she belongs out there with the boys. Off of the line she found herself in 2nd in both motos and held the position to the checkered both times, earning a 2nd place overall finish.

Bailey Motorsports

This weekend had most of the Bailey Motorsports racers out on the track. Ryan Hunt and Yanick Boucher were racing Snowbikes, with Ryan winning 2nd at the CSRA race, while Yanick had 3 days of racing the ISOC series with a 3rd place podium finish on Sunday. Hailey Belanger raced her Ski-Doo snowmobile to double 2nd place finishes taking 2nd in both Transition and Junior Girls classes. Brooklyn (No. 500) did not have any race events this weekend but looks forward to some more preparation time before the National season opener scheduled for February 1/2 in KSR’s hometown Lindsay, ON. Check out the full Bailey Motorsports recap at Baileymotorsports.ca

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for their support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Ski-Doo, Motul, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, SCOTT Sports, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekvest, 139 designs, Clean Media, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy.

RESULTS: To see full results for both KSR & Bailey Motorsports, visit www.snowcross.com/results-points

ISOC RESULTS: To see full results for the ISOC Series, visit: https://snocross.com/national/results/

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

 

Two National Championships Cinched at CSRA Grand Finale

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Oakwood, ON (April 2, 2019) – When one looks at the notoriety of a National Championship Snowcross title, it’s important to recognize that earning this title is not all about the skill, it’s also about the will. It’s about being determined, and testing oneself to their max and then some. This past season, all three racers on Karkoulas Sisters Racing (“KSR”) demonstrated their dedication to become crowned champions.

Brooklyn #500 defended her Championship title in Junior girls with an almost clean sweep this season. Dakota #501 echoed this accomplishment, defending her National Championship title in Transition Girls. Only Dakota was able to take the checkered in each and every moto in the class. The team’s success did not end with those two stellar accomplishments though. Dakota was able to earn a second place overall in Championship points in the Transition 2 mixed class and the team’s youngest racer, Zoe #502, had a break out year earning second overall in the Transition 1 mixed class. The team owes much of their success, in what is most arguably their most accomplished season to date, to the support of their many sponsors, including Bailey Motorsports, and the Compound Muskoka for creating an incredible practice track for the girls to hone in on technical skills and training.

Since entering the point’s race in the sport of Snowcross by racing full seasons, the last weekend of racing has always been one filled with nerves and anxiety. Previous years has seen the girls entering mere points between fellow competitors in the race for Championship titles. However, as a result of KSR’s efforts and dedication to practice, the team saw consistent results all season long with little breathing room in the points lead as they headed into the final race weekend.

Brooklyn #500

Brooklyn shifted her attention from the girl’s class to proving herself against the boys. The last couple of races saw the racer achieving top five but she felt she had more to give. That’s exactly what she exemplified this final weekend, even taking the checkered in several Motos. Overall she accomplished a podium finnish both days with a third place on Saturday in the Mystik Lubricants National and a second place on Sunday in the Dayco National Finals, both held at the Horseshoe Resort in Barrie, Ontario. Overall she achieved fourth place in the National Championship Junior 1. Of notable mention, Brooklyn made a decision a few races into the series to register for the Pro/Am Woman’s class to give her some seat time each day before her Junior 1 races. Never did she expect the outcome in this class, where she was the top racer for first place finishes, with 6 wins, just missing the podium by 6 points!

Dakota #501

Dakota had a far smoother and consistent race season this year thanks to more seat time at the Compound Muskoka. She showed a real competitive edge taking the checkered in all Transition Girl’s motos and many Transition 2 motos all season long, but the best times to watch the young rider was this past weekend when she had a few bad starts and dug deep to make up places earning a third Saturday and second Sunday. Her riding style as she passed sled after sled was calculated and fierce as she maneuvered her sled through the large group. Dakota is so excited for not only defending her Championship in Transition Girls, but to don a dress and stand between the first and third place young gentleman on the Transition 2 podium in the series upcoming awards banquet, demonstrating girls can ride too!

Zoe #502

KSR’s most improved award goes to…. Zoe! This 9 year old shocked many this season, with her improvement in riding, control and fierceness off the starting line. Zoe is known for always having a big smile on her face and the member of KSR who keeps things light, win or lose. However, she certainly aimed for the wins this season. After several moto checkers early in the season, Zoe was bitten by the competitiveness bug and set her sights on podium finishes throughout the season in both Transition Girls and Transition 1 mixed class. Going into the final race weekend at Horseshoe Resort was met with trepidation for the young rider after sustaining a minor foot fracture at this same venue in last season’s finale. She was however able to get into the right mindset and had her best weekend of racing earning a third place in Transition girls on Sunday and a second in the Transition 1 final the same day. This earned her a second place overall in National Championship points!

Bailey Motorsports

KSR would like to also give a huge shout out and congratulations to the BAILEY MOTORSPORTS team who earned the National Championship titles in the Pro 450 Snow Bike Class by Yannick Boucher #53 and in the Sport 450 Snow Bike Class with Ryan Hunt #729. Team member Shawn Marinoff #981 took the third overall in the same class. Well done gentleman! Lastly, KSR would like to congratulate fellow Transition Girls and Transition 1 rider Hailey Belanger #574 for a stellar start to her season and overcoming an injury to make it back on the track for the last couple of race weekends.

Thanks to all of our friends, family, and fans who have support KSR racers this season. It’s been a great one, and we can’t wait to return to the track later this year!

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for their support as well: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Lucas Oil, Off Road Vixens, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekrider TekVest, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy, Ski-Doo

RESULTS: To see full results for both KSR & Bailey Motorsports, visit  http://snowcross.com/results-points/

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Most Single Weekend Podiums for Karkoulas Sisters Racing!

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Oakwood, ON (March 4, 2019) – What do you get when you have unlimited access to massive amounts of snow? Well Karkoulas Sisters Racing (KSR) sure found out when they arrived in Timmins, Ontario for the Eclipse Financial Cup March 2nd and 3rd. Racers were greeted by a massive, technical track unlike any they have raced on before. Equipped with multiple challenging elements including a complete 180 degree corner, step-up jump section and of course a crowd pleasing table top, Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) in partnership with Angela Vacchino pulled out all the stops to put on a great event. This event is always one of the most exciting events the team attends as the city of Timmins welcomes the snowcross community with open arms.

While the event is always jam packed with fun, the KSR team entered this race weekend with a little trepidation. Luck has not always been on the team’s side at this particular track. Last year, Brooklyn #500 blew up her machine in a final race and Dakota #501 had to bail off her machine quickly which left her with a broken steering rod and other damage.

It looked like that luck was going to carry over this year, when Brooklyn, riding for BAILEY MOTORSPORTS while leading the pack, found herself hit from behind in a tricky corner and thrown from her sled in her very first moto out in Pro-Am women. This would not be the last time she found herself in the snow for the day but thankfully some clean solid races in the Junior Girls class earned her a first place finish for the day, and left her hopeful for a better Sunday. Under sunny skies and brisk temps, Sunday was a much better day for Brooklyn, which saw her sweeping both Pro-Am Women and Junior Girls. The Junior 1 class saw her riding more consistently and smoothly but lagged a bit with the air time other riders garnered causing her to lose a spot or two. Overall, she was pleased with placing third for the combined moto points of the day and knows exactly where improvements and growth can be made.

Dakota #501 had a great weekend of racing, continuing her consistent riding and results. Her clutching was certainly on point, as were her reaction times, which lead the young rider to earning two hole shot awards for both Transition Girls and Transition 2. She swept the Transition Girls class for the weekend and had a solid second place finish in Junior Girls Saturday and a third place finish on Sunday after a wobble off a kicker that left her in the snow. Transition 2 she was consistent in her starts and had multiple moto wins and strong finals earning second both days in this full, competitive class.

It was a historical weekend for the team’s youngest rider, nine year old Zoe #502 when she earned a first place in Transition 1 on Sunday (for the first time ever). It was a transponder line finish when she and another young racer drag raced down the final stretch. To say she was ecstatic is an understatement, especially when she learned she had earned the win by just milliseconds. What made this event special were interviews for the winners as they came off the track, with announcer Dave Bell. Zoe was most definitely the most talkative of the three sisters, as she tends to give honest, genuine and sometimes comical answers in her post win interviews. Thank you Dave Bell for giving the girls the opportunity to thank all of the KSR team sponsors who make this possible. Zoe rode well in her Transition Girls class as well earning forth place finish both days. She has certainly come leaps and bounds this season in her speed, handling and confidence.

KSR would like to extend congratulations to team members of Bailey Motorsports Yannick Boucher #53 and Ryan Hunt #729 for once again sweeping the Pro 450 Snow Bike class and Sport 450 Snow Bike class respectively. Further to his Snow Bike racing, Ryan Hunt also had solid top 3 finishes in his Pro class motos both days. Unfortunately in his final on Sunday, while racing hard in top five he had an incident that left him unseated from his sled and unable to finish out the race. The team is hoping the two week break in the schedule will see him healed and ready to take on the last two races of the series.

 

One final thank you and shout out goes to Bobby Hogg CSRA’s “tech guy”. We know it’s not an easy job when we are running in during finals shouting names and numbers of our racers who are unable to tech with back to back races. We give you keys while switching between Transition and Junior set-ups, and yet you always seem to have it marked and together. Well done!

 

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Ski-Doo, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Lucas Oil, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, SCOTT Sports, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekvest, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy

RESULTS: To see full results for both KSR & Bailey Motorsports, visit www.snowcross.com/race-results

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Multiple Podiums Clinched in Barrie for Karkoulas Sisters Racing – KSR

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[POST RACE REPORT] 

Oakwood, ON (February 26, 2019) – Karkoulas Sisters Racing (KSR) competed at the Georgian Downs in Barrie, Ontario on February 23 and 24 for the Royal Distributing Cup. Always a fan favorite location, this venue boasts indoor seating and an opportunity to visit the casino during race program breaks. It certainly makes for packed stands and plenty of opportunity to showcase snowcross talent from across Canada.

Zoe Karkoulas #502 had a slower start to her race weekend after some minor miscommunications with her pit crew, but by the time the finals rolled around she had the track figured out and rode a “Zoe race” as she called it, right to second place in Novice 8-10. She went on to repeat this result on Sunday, making this her best finish in that class this season. Consistent riding in the Transition Girls class had her earn top four both days.

Dakota #501 was seen throughout the weekend in the staging area, bouncing on her running boards with excitement while saying, “let’s go racing”. She enjoyed the expanse of the track and the many whoops and jumps it contained. Her enthusiasm showed in her riding and results that weekend. She dominated the Transition Girls class with a clean sweep while enjoying the ride the entire time. In Transition 2 she had strong motos and went on to finish third on the Saturday final race and second in Sunday’s final. This weekend was a little different for Dakota as she decided she would like to try out the Junior Girls class. With a quick key change, she headed out both days earning second place finish, hot on her sister Brooklyn’s snow flap.

 

Brooklyn #500 had a solid weekend on her 2019 Ski-Doo RS riding for BAILEY MOTORSPORTS. She started the weekend off trying out the CSRA Pro-Am Women’s class and earned herself a first place in the class. This marked the first of what she hopes will be many top finishes, in the years to come when she transitions to that category. Sunday in the same class saw her bail in her first moto, but much to her parents surprise and pride, she jumped up, ran back to her sled, tethered up and with one pull was back in the race going from last up to third. Her second moto she place first and with combined points was enough to cinch first place for a second time that weekend in Pro-Am Women class. Junior 1 saw Brooklyn battling fiercely with her competitors in very close position battles. Both days she earned a fourth place finish. Moving forward, Brooklyn wants to improve in this class by focusing on putting in some practice on starts to try to get ahead of the competitive pack from the beginning. The Junior Girls class was a great success for Brooklyn this weekend taking first place both days. It was heartwarming to see her stop at the end of the second moto and fist bump her younger sister Dakota for her well-earned second position.

Much to the racers approval, the race program for the kids was completed before the pro show began affording the team some stress free time to cheer on the Bailey Motorsports riders. This was a weekend for the teams Snow Bike domination! Yannick Boucher #53 ruled the Pro 450 class going undefeated. Ryan Hunt #729 took top spot in the Sport 450 category followed by affiliated team member Shawn Marinoff #981 both days. Congrats boys!

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Backwoods Promotions Inc.,Backcountry Motorsports, Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD,DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, Dayco, St-Onge Recreation, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekrider TekVest

Hometown Victories for Karkoulas Sisters Racing

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POST RACE REPORT

Oakwood, ON (February 19, 2019) – Heading into a hometown race is unlike all other races. There is a little more hype and excitement with the idea of additional family and friends in the stands which also tends to add some increased pressure to perform well. This is exactly what the Karkoulas Sisters Racing (KSR) team members experienced this past family day weekend at the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) FXR Kawartha Cup in Lindsay, Ontario.

Saturday started with a brief practice period before racing commenced. With a determined mindset, KSR racers set their fine-tuned sleds to work. Brooklyn #500 was the first to line up to go green on her 2019 Ski-Doo RS. Still running off the joy of a successful weekend at Grand Prix Ski-Doo de Valcourt  in Valcourt, Quebec the previous weekend , she hit the light and grabbed the holeshot without looking back. This started her day off right, where she proceeded to win both Motos of her Junior Girls class, and a Moto in Junior 1, ultimately earning her a first place in both classes.

Dakota #501 brought her fast and furious self to compete in her hometown, winning both Transition Girl Motos. In Transition 10-13 the young rider went 1-2 in her Heats and third in the final. Dakota continues to grow and show more and more control over her 2018 Ski-Doo RS every race she runs. 

Zoe #502 brought out the checkered herself for the first time in her racing career on a “big sled” in her Transition 8-10 heat. Beaming after great rides going 2-1 in the heats, the nine year old racer accomplished a fifth in the final. The Transition Girls class saw her with a podium finish, with a second place overall. She is consistently pushing herself (and the throttle) further each race and developing growth and comfort while increasing her racer abilities.

Saturday’s race day was also a little extra special because team KSR had the opportunity to introduce Caroline Wiley from SeeWhatSheCanDo, a hub that gives active women the advice, inspiration and female sports coverage they’ve always wanted but could never find. Through multimedia they highlight all the wonderful accomplishments and activities inspiring women to engage in, both locally and beyond. KSR’s goal with See What She Can Do (SWSCD), is to introduce the sport of Snowcross to girls and women as an exciting and attainable activity to participate in. Stay tuned for KSR’s story to be published on their social media and information on how to get involved in Snowcross. KSR will aim to break the sport down to the basics of equipment required to the feel of pulling up to the starter’s line. For more information on SWSCD and how to be your best active self and positively influence others, visit www.seewhatshecando.com or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Saturday’s race day also featured the FXR Top Gun Shoot-Out, an exciting snowmobile vs. snow bike race that had many people surprised with the results. This shoot out really did turn out to be a head-to-head with both bikes and sleds making it through many elimination rounds. In the end, KSR was enthused to see two Bailey Motorsports team members line up in the three way battle for the $5000 prize. Both Ryan Hunt #729 on his 2019 Ski-Doo RS and #53 Yanick Boucher on his Husky 450 Snow Bike against second place X-games winner #42 Jesse Kirchmeyer in the 3 lap final round. Hunt was quick on the light earning the holeshot, closely followed by Boucher putting the pressure on with quick corners that the bikes are known for. With a bail off heading into the second lap by Boucher, Hunt had a bit more play room before taking the checkered flag with a huge fist pump and ear to ear grin. It was a very exciting end to a successful day for the team.

KSR was humbled by the amount of support that turned out for the event. Family, friends and fans all braved cold temperatures, frosty toes and frigid bleacher seats to support these racers. Each and every time KSR crossed that finish line (bringing out the checkered in many of them) the cheering could be heard across the entire track and pits. Their unconditional love and support will forever be appreciated by the entire team.

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: Sunoco Racing, HMK USA, Lucas Oil, Backcountry Motorsports Media, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Off Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, TEAMLTD, DEFT FAMILY, Flybyu Motorsports, STUD BOY Traction, St-Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, Inc., C&A Pro Skis, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound – Muskoka, Tekrider TekVest

RESULTS: To see full results for both KSR & Bailey Motorsports, visit www.snowcross.com/race-results

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Hustle and Heart Sets Karkoulas Sisters Racing Apart

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Team Accomplishes Podium Finishes in Valcourt

Oakwood, ON (January 12, 2019) – When the two eldest Karkoulas Sisters Racing (KSR) racers, Brooklyn (14) and Dakota (12) left for the Grand Prix Ski-Doo last Thursday morning, never in their wildest dreams did they envision being on the podium in every class they entered.

Not only did they achieve podium finishes, but Brooklyn No. 500 took it one step further. On her 2019 Ski-Doo RS, she also captured the esteem Grand Prix champion flag in the Dame/Women’s class on Friday. Making this achievement all that much more memorable was her sister, Dakota No. 501, right beside her on the podium earning a second place finish.  They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and this old adage sure speaks for itself as Brooklyn and Dakota’s smiles could not be hidden beneath their helmets for podium pictures.

Saturday was a rest day for Brooklyn, while Dakota geared up early and headed out for her final day of competition in the Junior 10-13 mixed class. Consistent riding and big air saw the young rider going 3-3 in her qualifiers, achieving third place in the final Saturday afternoon.  Again she was all smiles experiencing a podium celebration.  With KSR’s racing completed for the day they were able to congratulate Bailey Motorsports teammate Ryan Hunt, No. 729, on his phenomenal ride placing an incredible fifth against some tough competition in the final that morning.  Saturday evening the team also got to cheer on and watch Yanick Boucher, No. 53, dominate the Snowbike category. It was no surprise that he finished so well, given that he went undefeated in every qualifier Friday and Saturday, taking the checkered flag in both finals.

Sunday racing came earlier than the previous days with practice starting at 7:30am.  Despite it being a long weekend and far from home, Brooklyn awoke determined to keep up her smooth, calculated qualifiers.  The first qualifier saw the young rider struggle with the drop start initially with too much air and not enough grip on the snow, however she made up for the delayed start throughout the race, achieving a second finish. The final had Brooklyn perfect the drop start and race hard until the very end as she crossed the finish line in second place.  This weekend marked the first race weekend that Brooklyn had no limits placed on her sled and she handled it like she’s been riding without a throttle block or rev limiter for years.  The entire team is very proud of Brooklyn’s growth and advancement already this season.  

Next stop for the entire KSR and Bailey Motorsports team is KSR’s very own hometown in Lindsay, Ontario on February 16, 2019 for the FXR Kawartha Cup!

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: Sunoco, HMK, Lucas Oil, Backwoods Promotions, Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off-Road Vixens, Troy Lee Designs, Team LTD, Deft Family, Flybyu, Stud Boy, St. Onge Recreation, Dayco, WTD Gloves, Rox Speed FX, C&A Pro Skis, Scott Sports Canada, The Compound Muskoka, Tekvest

RESULTS: To see full results for both KSR & Bailey Motorsports, visit www.snowcross.com/race-results

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)