National Season Opener Results in Top Finishes for KSR

National Season Opener Results in Top Finishes for KSR

Oakwood, ON (January 15, 2019) – Brisk temperatures, sunny skies and stunning surroundings were what the racers of Karkoulas Sisters Racing (“KSR”) encountered at the Can/Am International National Snowcross opener in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, this past weekend.   The Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge to the USA provided an intriguing backdrop for the impressive track which was equipped with a drop start and areas of alternate paths for riders to choose in hopes of passing the competition.  With a few nerves, excitement and enthusiasm the team hit the track and didn’t look back. 

Zoe #502

KSR’s youngest racer, 9 year old  Zoe Karkoulas No. 502,  had a taste of victory in a break out weekend on her Ski-Doo 600 RS.  On Saturday, Zoe accomplished her personal best with third place podium finishes in both Transition Girls and Transition 1 mixed.  She had a huge smile on her face as she ran and jumped into her Dad’s arms after the day concluded.  On Sunday, she was the first rider up and ready to get back on the track, finding herself at tech once again in both her classes with a fifth place finish in Transition girls, and fourth place finish in the Transition 1 class.

 

Dakota #501

 

Dakota No. 501, gave her Mom’s heart a break and had a smooth, fast weekend in all her motos and finals. She handling her sled like a pro and showing real growth and comfort on her 2018 Ski-Doo 600 RS.  She successfully won many of her motos and achieved first place both Saturday and Sunday in Transition Girls, with affiliated team member Hailey Belanger No. 574 next to cross the finish line. The Transition 2 mixed race saw Dakota having top picks for starting line choice, which ultimately led to her earning a third place on Saturday and second place on Sunday in the finals.

 

Brooklyn #500

Brooklyn No. 500 had a weekend of ups and downs but overall a safe and successful national opener for the young rider.  The Junior 1 class saw the rider struggle with a few mishaps including overshooting a berm on Saturday which knocked her to an eighth place in the combined moto final.  On Sunday, Brooklyn was mid pack in the same class, riding hard and technical, when she and another racer made contact which bent her steering rod. This prevented her from continuing the race, and knocked her combined moto points, leaving her in seventh place for the day.

KSR would like to extend a big thank you to the Bailey Motorsports team for coming together and quickly and skillfully replacing the tie rod, allowing Brooklyn to make it out for her Junior Girls moto which led to her achieving first place overall for both days in that class!  

When racing concluded for the girls, they were able to don their new HMK Bailey Motorsports team jackets and enjoy cheering on Pro rider Ryan Hunt No. 729 who absolutely flew this weekend.  Riding like the girls have never seen him ride before, the Pro racer had top finishes in his motos Saturday and a second place finish in the final! If you ask the girls, their favorite part was seeing his excitement when he returned to the trailer doing donuts on his sled!  Yannick Boucher, No. 53, from Hearst, Ontario did not disappoint in the Pro 450 Snow Bike class sweeping the category both days.  Well done Team!

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

NEXT RACE: January 26, 2019 – Innisfil, ON

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Season Opener in Ontario a Huge Success for KSR Racers!

[POST RACE REPORT] 

Oakwood, ON (December 17, 2018) – This past weekend marked the season opener for the young racers of Karkoulas Sisters Racing (“KSR”). The opening race was held in Bracebridge, Ontario, at the familiar practice track for the team called The Compound – Muskoka. The massive track features every element that snowcross racers adore, from a drop start, to an impressive rhythm section. It gave new racers and veterans an opportunity to showcase their talent. While this race was intended to introduce prospective racers to the exhilarating sport of snowcross and the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA)series, it was wonderful to see so many experienced riders line up for the green light as well.

Zoe #502
Zoe showed great progress already this season and was able to keep up with the pack in her transition 8-10. She was excited to hear her skis are lifting and she looks forward to pushing herself and her 2017 Ski-Doo RS this season.

Dakota #501
Dakota had an exciting start to her season. She spent Saturday getting acquainted with her new ride, a 2018 Ski-Doo RS and quickly seemed to be right back to where she left off last season. On race day, Dakota was able to bring out the checkered flag in every race she ran in both Transition 10-13 and Transition girls, with affiliated team member Hailey Belanger #574 not far behind in the girl’s class. 

Brooklyn #500
Brooklyn spent an extra day preparing for race day, travelling to the track two days in advance for some extra seat time. Her preparation paid off on race day, when the team and spectators saw the 13 year old junior racer take the win in Junior girls and 3rd place podium finish in Jr 14-15. When asked how she felt about the first race, the younger rider said, “I always love the track structures built here at the compound, so to be able to have a CSRA race here is a real bonus”.

KSR would also like to extend a huge congratulations to Yanick Boucher #53 of BAILEY MOTORSPORTS for his second place finish at ERX Motor Parkand ticket to the X Games! Big shout out also to pro rider Ryan Hunt #729 for switching things up at the Compound and taking the win in the Snow Bike Sport class.

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: BAILEY MOTORSPORTSSunoco RacingHMK USALucas OilBackcountry Motorsports MediaBackwoods Promotions Inc.Off Road VixensTroy Lee DesignsDEFT FAMILYFlybyu MotorsportsSTUD BOY TractionSt-Onge RecreationDaycoWTD GlovesRox Speed FX, Inc.C&A Pro SkisScott Sports CanadaThe Compound – MuskokaTekvestSki-Doo, Team LTD

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

NEXT RACE: January 12-13, 2019 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Karkoulas Sisters Racing Sends It in Duluth!

Oakwood, ON (November 26, 2018) – The first race of the 2018/2019 Snocross season was kicked off this past weekend in Duluth, MN. Karkoulas Sisters Racing (KSR) rider Brooklyn Karkoulas No. 500, and teammates from BAILEY MOTORSPORTSRyan Hunt No. 729, and Yanick Boucher No. 53, made the long haul to Duluth with a stop in Hill City for some practice time prior to the event.

Hundreds of trailers could be found in the pits at Spirit Mountain, the site for the Amsoil Snocross National presented by Kwik Trip. The BAILEY MOTORSPORTS team, which races in the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) series, used this opportunity to find some snow early in the season and get the sleds dialed in before the start of the CSRA circuit which kicks off on December 16 in Bracebridge, Ontario.

This year marked the second consecutive year that KSR rider, Brooklyn #500, joined the Bailey Motorsports team and made the trip for the esteemed ISOC season opener. After a long off-season, Brooklyn was fortunate to have several practice days to become reacquainted with her 2018 Ski-Doo RS before competing in the event. Each practice lap saw the young rider gaining comfort and speed to prepare her for the weekend.

On Friday, Brooklyn kicked off her race season going 2-2 in her qualifiers, landing her on the podium with a second place finish in the Junior Girls final. The excitement of the podium and interview had the young rider at a loss for words but she was able to take the opportunity to thank some important sponsors and supporters.

Saturday had the rider racing multiple qualifiers in the mixed classes, Transition 9-13 and Junior 10-13, making it straight into the main event in the Transition class after an impressive qualifier win. During this race, Brooklyn lead from start to finish which supported the Laps for Muscular Dystrophy program.

Brooklyn had to race the LCQ for Junior 10-13 but had no problems making it into the final. The Junior was the first final up and saw Brooklyn getting faster and faster each lap earning a sixth place finish from back row! With pure excitement Brooklyn pulled up to the line after a quick clutch change for the Transition final but unfortunately got tangled in an unavoidable mishap in the first corner which put her out of the race. When asked about the overall experience, Brooklyn said, “it felt great to be back on the race track again and I’m super pumped for the start of the CSRA series back at home.”

KSR would like to give a huge congratulations to Bailey Motorsports Snow Bike rider, Yanick Boucher #53, whose skill and manipulation of his Yeti Snow bike lap after lap saw the rider have top finishes in qualifiers and earned a second place podium on Sunday in the final. Well-earned Yanick!

Bailey Motorsports’ Pro rider Ryan Hunt #729 gave a sneak peek on Saturday of what can be expected this season, demonstrating his speed, soaring and ability to ride with the best.

KSR would like to thank the following sponsors for this support: Sunoco RacingHMK USABackwoods Promotions Inc.Backcountry Motorsports MediaLucas OilOff Road VixensTroy Lee DesignsTEAMLTDDEFT FAMILYFlybyu MotorsportsSTUD BOY TractionSt-Onge RecreationDaycoWTD GlovesRox Speed FX, Inc.C&A Pro SkisScott Sports CanadaThe Compound – MuskokaTekvest

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

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

What A Season!!!

[POST RACE REPORT]

Best Season Finale yet for KSR Racers – Team Achieves Two Championships and Title of ‘Most Outstanding Junior Racer’

Oakwood, ON (April 3, 2018) – The natural scenic surroundings of Horseshoe Resort was the site for the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) finale March 31- April 1. As always, this venue is the perfect location for organizers to create one of the best tracks the racers encounter all season long, complete with a race drag up the ski mountain for the experienced Sport, Snow bike, Pro lite and Pro racers. KSR riders enjoyed a wide, essentially oval track, complete with a drop start and “509 triple” to showcase their talent. And showcase they did.

Heading into the final weekend of racing is always accompanied with the added pressure of “last chance” in the ever present race for the championship. This year, KSR had two riders leading in points, with Dakota #501 ahead by 10 points in Transition girls, and Brooklyn #500 heading in with a 5 point lead. The girls needed to ride smooth and smart which is exactly what they delivered.

Dakota #501

Dakota started the three day race weekend taking the win in Transition Girls on Friday extending her points lead and giving her some breathing room. Saturday saw her win the first moto and running a smooth second moto achieving 2nd. On Sunday she started the day with a win then in the second moto got tied up in the first corner on the first lap putting her at the back of the pack. With a championship already secured, Dakota had nothing to lose and gave her all, passing the pack all the way up to second place, placing first overall for the day. In the end, Dakota was awarded 1st place in 8 out of 11 races this season and a points lead of 17.

Transition 2 (ages 11-13) saw this 11 year old make KSR history. She has ridden hard and competitively in this class against mainly boys, with many moto wins and podium finals. In the end she has become the first KSR rider to achieve a podium finish of 3rd place in the Championship, in a mixed class. Just like the KSR sponsor, Off Road Vixens, motto goes, Dakota has proven not only to herself but to spectators at events that ‘Girls Get Dirty Too’. The team is infinitely proud of her ability to fearlessly line up against some of the fastest racers in the age group and give her all each and every time.

 

Zoe #502

Zoe had her busiest weekend to date. With a couple of extra kids trying out the larger sleds this weekend, Zoe saw herself lining up for an extra final in her transition 1 (8-10) class, making for a total of 8 races a day. None-the less, she did it with excitement and her usual enthusiasm. Friday night she had the opportunity to race under the lights on her 200 and enjoyed staging under a picturesque sky filled with fireworks thanks to event organizers. Sunday’s first 200 moto saw her right foot caught between her brake disc guard and another riders’ running board which caused her too much pain to go out on her 600RS for her remaining Motos. After a few hours of rest, some icing and some support from friends and fellow riders, Zoe went out for her final 200 race determined to race her own last race of the season earning 7th for the day and just missing the podium in the championship with a fourth overall for the season.

Unfortunately, after being checked out by the doctor it looks like Zoe has a bad sprain and chip to her right foot to get healed up before next season. We are happy to report, she loves crutches!

 

Brooklyn #500

Brooklyn came into the final weekend with personal goals set and a determined attitude. She started Friday taking a win in the Junior Girls class extending her points lead to 8. Saturday she repeated a win which secured the Championship title making her the 2018 Junior Girls Champion. With the Championship won, she was able to go out for her final day of racing relaxed and soaking in the memories with a great group of girls and competitors.

The Junior 1 class (ages 14-15) saw the 13 year old surpass her weekend goals. She was driven to achieve top five on one day of the weekend in the highly skilled and competitive class, and instead she earned 3rd on two days of the event! Her excitement was palpable throughout the pits after achieving such a feat. Beaming from beneath her helmet she was approached by many of her fellow competitors giving her congratulations for motos well raced. It was a heartwarming moment when Brooklyn said, “Mom, I finally feel like I showed I belong in the class”. While the team never had any doubt she belonged, when a rider finally feels it there are no words to describe the contentment. While already feeling on top of the world, Brooklyn’s success did not end there, there was a bigger surprise awaiting her at the banquet.

This year, CSRA Championships were awarded at a buffet dinner immediately following the conclusion of racing. Brooklyn donned her Bailey Motorsports team sweater and took her seat. She was awarded her Championship plaque for Junior Girls and was enjoying watching other racers get their awards. Once Championship plaques were awarded, Ken Avann, the series owner began to describe the Junior class and the talent of up and coming racers. This year, Ken had to say “guys and ladies”, as Brooklyn was the sole female representative in the division.

While that was an accomplishment in itself, the team was overwhelmed when he announced this year’s “Most Outstanding Junior Racer” was awarded to our very own #500 Brooklyn Karkoulas. In addition to this, the team has learned that Brooklyn is the first female to ever receive this award! While too overcome to say a speech at the time, Brooklyn later expressed her thanks to Stuart Hunt of Bailey Motorsports who took a chance and invited this young lady to represent the team in the Junior division. It is the unyielding support of the Bailey Motorsports team and sponsors that has given these kids the confidence and encouragement to grow and succeed.

             

 

 

The BAILEY MOTORSPORTS team had their fair share of success this weekend as well. We have been reporting throughout the season the amazing success of #53 Yannick Boucher from Hearst, Ontario, in the Snow Bike class. As a result of many wins and expert handling of his Husqvarna motorcycle with a YETI SnowMX kit, we are thrilled to report that Yannick was crowned the 2018 Snow Bike Champion!

 

 

 

 

 

After a season of ups and downs, but with determination that never wavered, another Championship title was awarded to the deserving #117 Isaac St Onge in the Pro Lite division. Some mechanical failures and highly skilled competition had Isaac battling it out until the final weekend. After a huge win Saturday afternoon, and a touching hug from his dad, the rider essentially locked down the championship. Sunday still saw the Isaac racing to the checkered but without the pressure, going 1:3 in his heats and 3rd in the final. Congratulations Isaac!

 

 

Bailey Motorsports Pros #729 Ryan Hunt and #335 Taylor McCoy continued to battle it out all weekend long. It was nice to see Ryan smiling at tech after accomplishing 5th on Sunday in the main event on a demanding track. The #729 rider achieved 6th place overall standing for the season. His teammate and fellow competitor Taylor McCoy had some strong moto’s over the weekend and earned an overall 5th place in the 2018 Pro season. Not bad for their first year riding in the Pro class! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for these two in the class now that their successful rookie year has come to a close.

 

 

 

 

 

KSR would like to extend a huge thank you to their sponsors and supporters: BAILEY MOTORSPORTSBackcountry Motorsports MediaBackwoods Promotions Inc.Off Road VixensLucas Oil / Lucas Oil Products CanadaDaycoSTUD BOY TractionTroy Lee DesignsSCOTT MotosportsLaps for Muscular DystrophyThe Compound Muskoka – and of course a lots of hugs and thanks to our wonderful parents Troy Karkoulas & Rebecca Karkoulas for their ongoing love, support and patience! Plus, thanks to our extended family and friends. We love you all! 

Brooklyn would like to also extend her thanks to HMK USAMystik LubricantsSt-Onge RecreationMBRP Performance ExhaustRox Speed FX, Inc.

KSR ‘Sends It’ in Kitchener

Oakwood, ON (March 27, 2018) – It was an incredible weekend spent racing at Chicopee Ski Resort in Kitchener, Ontario for the Rockstar Energy National Snowcross Race March 24-25th. With the season winding down, and questions of enough snow for the race to run, Karkoulas Sisters Racing (“KSR”) was ecstatic to pull into the event location greeted with a hill full of snow, and an impeccable track created by Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) organizers. The track had it all; hills, jumps, whoops and all the fun stuff the girls have become accustomed to riding thanks to their practice time at The Compound – Muskoka. KSR racers dedication to practicing over March Break certainly paid off for them this weekend with multiple podium finishes earned.

Dakota #501:

Dakota had her usual drive, speed and love for the air this weekend, and she rode smoother than ever before due to some improvements with her technical riding. She was more driven than ever to extend a points lead in the race for the Championship and was successful in her endeavor. She swept the Transition Girls class in all Motos for the weekend and had several moto wins in Transition 11-13 ending the weekend with 2nd on Saturday and 4th on Sunday after a little rubbing that threw out a ball joint affecting her steering. While Dakota was disappointed that the steering issue slowed her down, she was still proud to have led so many laps this weekend which earned money donated towards Laps for Muscular Dystrophy.

Zoe #502:

Zoe had another consistent weekend on her Ski-Doo RS, gaining seat time and comfort. She continues to jump on that sled with no reservations and enjoys each and every moto without getting intimidated by the more experienced riders she lines up against. The highlights of the weekend for Zoe were on her 200 sled, where she took the checkered on Saturday in a moto and ended up 3rd overall for the day. Even better than this though, was when she got atop her sled for her second moto on Sunday with determination in her eyes. She rode like a ‘girl on a mission’, absolutely sending it over a large section of whoops in front of the spectators. She battled hard for first but came up just a little shy of the win. Although she just missed out on podium for the day with a fourth overall, that race was one for the memory bank as she held nothing back and gave a huge thank you to Shelby Mahon from Backcountry Motorspors Media.

Brooklyn #500:

Brooklyn had a consistent and successful weekend taking the win both days in Junior girls, and giving her a small points lead for the championship and upcoming final race weekend. When asked her thoughts about the weekend she expressed disappointment in her Junior 1 (14-15) class from Saturday, feeling like she was losing time and couldn’t put a finger on where. This made her driven for the Sunday Junior 1 class, where she started her second Moto absolutely flying with the pack. She was coming around the last half of the final lap in 5th when she landed hard, causing immediate pain to her knee. This led to her letting go of the throttle and losing her position, but she finished the race and after some first aid and care, she is more determined than ever to rest up and race hard at the upcoming final race of the series.

KSR cannot thank all their track friends enough for all of their concern, support and attention they provided. It is a true testament to the nature of motorsports families when competition gets put aside, and everyone comes together when one of our own is hurting. Special thanks goes out to CSRA official Brock Norris for his assistance and track medic Rob for his care and follow up.

BAILEY MOTORSPORTS:

KSR would like to extend a special congratulations to Bailey Motorsports Pro Rider Taylor McCoy #335 for his incredible showing Saturday with a heat win and a 3rd in his second heat. Teammate Ryan Hunt had a solid ride with impressive airtime earning him 5th in the Pro Final that same day. Sunday saw the riders back on the track with Taylor taking 5th in the final after strong heat races and Ryan 7th.

 

 

 

 

 

The Pro Lite division saw Isaac StOnge #117 coming on strong with two heat wins and a 2nd in the final on Saturday. Sunday he came out just as solid starting the afternoon with a heat win, then in his second heat and final he had a few bail offs seeing him finish 9th in the main. Isaac will head into the final weekend with a 47 point lead for the championship with his usual drive and fortitude.

Yannick Boucher #53, Bailey Motorsports Snow Bike rider, certainly put down impressive lap times on a huge track. Saturday he earned a second in the main. Sunday saw the rider actually lap the entire pack, the magnitude of such a feat impressive given the sheer size of this particular track. Needless to say the rider swept the class in both heats and finals Sunday. Congratulations Yannick!

KSR would like to extend a huge thank you to their sponsors and supporters: BAILEY MOTORSPORTS, Backcountry Motorsports Media, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Off Road Vixens, Lucas Oil Products Canada, Dayco, STUD BOY Traction, Troy Lee Designs, SCOTT Motosports, Laps for Muscular Dystrophy

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

NEXT RACE: March 30-April 1, 2018 (Barrie, ON)

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

Snow Found in Timmins!

[POST RACE UPDATE]

Karkoulas Sisters Racing Ventures North to Race

Oakwood, ON (March 6, 2018) – This past weekend, Karkoulas Sisters Racing (KSR) made the 7 hour trek to Timmins, Ontario for rounds 7/8 of the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) championship. The Eclipse Financial Pro Challenge was held under bright sunny skies all weekend long. With Southern Ontario’s lack of the white stuff, it was a refreshing change for the racers to be surrounded by mountains of snow!

Event organizers succeeded in putting on an entertaining event for not only spectators but the racers as well. From a chocolate hunt for the kids to a snowmobile giveaway for the adults, fans never left disappointed. Behind the scenes, the racers were given some extra incentive with “Holeshot Awards” for Sunday finals. Our own Dakota #501 took the award with ease and excitement during the Transition Girls race!

While the team enjoyed what was arguably the best weather they have ever encountered racing in Timmins, the weekend had its share of challenges as well. The track was one of the smallest tracks the girls have been challenged with, leaving little room to pass and maneuver. A tight pivotal left hand corner also seemed to essentially make or break a moto if the kids got pulled wide. Saturday morning’s early cold temperatures combined with a tight track and a tough rhythm section unfortunately saw some injuries for fellow racers delaying racing while medical attention given. KSr racers were remarkable in their ability to not be intimidated by the red flags and racers down and sought to ride smooth and conscientious on a difficult track. KSR extends our wishes for speedy recoveries of all those injured this past weekend.

Dakota #501

Once again Dakota was the first KSR racer to take to the track going 3:3 in her Transition 11-13 and 4th in the final. Transition Girls class Moto 1 had her on her last lap leading from the start when she got pulled wide and an ice block rolled the sled. Dakota was extremely disappointed but unharmed. The sled on the other hand, required some quick touch ups and duct tape for the weekend and a new steering post to be installed! Sunday was a much better day for Dakota. She started the day with impressive moto’s in Transition 11-13, going 2:1 into the final where she achieved 3rd. She continued to charge hard in Transition Girls with a 1st overall for the day.

Zoe #502

Zoe continued to be her same excited self, enjoying all the camaraderie amongst her fellow competitors. She is frequently seen wandering about the pits smiling and playing with the other kids between Motos but very conscientious of the grid sheet, ensuring she doesn’t miss a Moto.

Zoe is the busiest of the KSR racers as she races in 3 classes, but she loves it! She continues to hop on her sled with no reservations and although the ZR200 continues to give her grief off the line, she still loves riding and maneuvering the mid-sized sled. Her highlight of the weekend would be winning her first Moto on the ZR200 on Sunday and 5th in the final. As mentioned, the track was small and tight corners proved to be tricky for Zoe. However, gave her all and finished 8th in Transition 1 on Saturday, 9th Sunday and in the Transition Girls class she achieved 7th Saturday and 8th Sunday.

Brooklyn #500

The weekend was challenging for Brooklyn, who faced some road blocks with a competitive Junior Girls class. Given the short track, the holeshot was crucial and made for a tough start for many racers. On Saturday, Brooklyn took 3rd place points and she was going into Sunday’s second moto more determined than ever to make up some points. Sadly her sled did not cooperate, and a mechanical failure resulted in it being towed off the track.

In the Junior 1 class, she went 5:5 in her Saturday Moto’s and 8th in the final. Sunday saw less racers in the class lining up due to injuries incurred the day before so two Motos were run with Brooklyn placing 9th with a combined score. Although her pride was bruised she is more resolute than ever to get some extra seat time over the March break to be better prepared in the future for this style of track.

KSR would like to extend a huge thanks to Bailey Motorsports who throughout the weekend extended words of encouragement or lightened the pressures of racing through playful banter. Your continued support of young racers is commendable!

Bailey Motorsports

The Bailey Motorsports team unfortunately had their own mechanical failure in the Pro lite division narrowing Isaac St.Onge #117 points lead a bit. We have full confidence he will be out as strong as ever in Kitchener to open that gap back up with his brilliant line choices and exceptional skill.

While the Pro Class had fewer riders lining up they still put on a great show for spectators battling for the checkered. Bailey Motorsports own Taylor McCoy #335 went 5:5 in the finals both days and Ryan Hunt#729 went 6:6. KSR had the opportunity to watch how the riders maneuvered the hard left the girls had difficulties with and from a vantage point at the elevated start it was wonderful for the girls to see how the Pro’s calculated and powered through two very different lines to master the corner.

Yannick Boucher #53 was flawless in his domination of the Snow Bike Class winning all Motos and Finals in the class! Congratulations Yannick.

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

NEXT RACE: March 24-25, 2018 (Kitchener, ON)

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Contact Jessica Kline, info@backwoodspromo.com

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: Shelby Mahon / Backcountry Motorsports Media 

The Kawartha Cup National Snowcross

[POST RACE REPORT] Family Day Weekend Hometown Racing

Oakwood, ON (February 21, 2018) – Karkoulas Sisters Racing (KSR) just finished a successful weekend of hometown racing at the Lindsay Exhibition Fairgrounds. The Kawartha Cup National Snowcross event marked the third event in the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) season schedule and was attended by many of KSR’s own friends and family.

The weekend started off with a bang as all three KSR team members, Brooklyn, Dakota and Zoe gave away VIP “Meet & Greet” passes for BAILEY MOTORSPORTS. It was a great opportunity for the girls to share their passion for the sport with fans.

Zoe #502 

Zoe had her first opportunity to race under the lights in the feature program on Saturday with the stands packed with spectators. She had some ups and downs on her Arctic Cat ZR 200 with it not quite pulling the deep soft snow conditions. However, she was still able to pull off a podium finish Saturday earning third place. When asked her thoughts about the weekend Zoe said, “I didn’t like that my sled got stuck on the line.” Some tweaking over the next couple of weeks is in order and will be ready to go for the next race in Timmins, ON.

Despite some difficulties, Zoe continues to surpass Mom and Dad’s expectations with her comfort and progression on the big sled. She is always excited to pull it up to the line and never gets intimidated by the speed and talent in the races.

 

Dakota #501

Dakota pinned it to win it on Saturday, sweeping transition girls and going 2 for 2 in her transition 11-13 qualifiers. After making her way around a tangled start she earned 4th in the final.

On Sunday, Dakota rode with a vengeance. After rubbing in a corner on the first lap and ultimately falling off in her first transition girls heat she was in the back of the pack. However, she threw down some amazing lap times and rode like a girl on a mission all the way up to the top of the pack, missing out on second place by the ski tip. Dakota’s second heat was a bit challenging, but she worked past these challenges to earn a 5th place final. Sunday’s transition 11-13 class had her racing hard and smooth to the podium with a third place overall.

Brooklyn #500

Brooklyn had a consistent weekend of racing that tested her physical fitness to the max. Powering her 2018 Ski-Doo RS around a soft track with many kickers put her skills to the test. On Saturday she was excited to have friends from school and family trackside cheering her on, but she also felt the added pressure that a hometown race can have.

Despite the added pressure, Brooklyn placed second in Junior girls! Junior 14-15 saw her struggle a bit to find her groove, but she garnished great experience riding the challenging track with some amazing riders. Sunday saw Brooklyn more determined than ever. She rode hard and fast and had some of her best results of the season. It was a toss-up for her whether her highlight for the weekend was taking the checkered in her final race of the day (Junior Girls) or if it was as the sole female in the Junior 14-15 class, earning 5th place against some very talented guys.

Some great pit parking made watching teammates from Bailey Motorsports easy and enjoyable. While the team had their own set of ups and downs, it was great to see the Bailey Motorsports riders giving their all out on the track. Saturday saw Yannick Boucher #53 on the podium with a second place finish in the Snow Bike class. Sunday he returned to the podium with a 3rd place finish. Isaac St. Onge #117, the team’s Pro lite rider, had some challenging races Saturday but was not deterred and came out as strong as ever going 1:1 in his heats and 2nd in the final.

Both Pro riders Taylor McCoy #335 and Ryan Hunt #729 maneuvered their sleds around the tracks like the pro’s they are. Like many riders this weekend they found themselves occasionally off the track or track side up but they continued to race hard providing to KSR racers that they can overcome challenges and keep their heads held high.

KSR would like to extend a huge thank you to their sponsors and supporters: Bailey Motorsports, Backwoods Promotions Inc., Backcountry Motorsports Media, Off Road Vixens, Lucas Oil Products Canada, Dayco, STUD BOY Traction, Troy Lee Designs, SCOTT, 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)

Season Opener at Rouyn-Noranda a Huge Success for KSR Racers

 

Season Opener at Rouyn-Noranda a Huge Success for KSR Racers

Top Finishes and Career Bests Kick off 2018 with a Bang

Oakwood, ON (January 17, 2017) – Racers from across Canada arrived at the International Snowcross Grand Prix in Rouyn-Noranda, QC on Thursday evening in the pouring rain and woke up to snow and bitter cold the next morning. A 20 degree temperature drop made the track ice hard, and the challenging weather conditions resulted in a smaller track compared to previous years. Despite these issues, the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) did an amazing job putting together a fast and competitive track.

 

Racers took full advantage of Friday to practice on the new track, and dust out the cob webs. After a long summer full of anticipation, the wait was over on Saturday as Dakota #501 was the first KSR racer to line up for her Transition 2 (age 11-13) moto 1. With a 2nd place finish on her 2017 Ski-Doo RS, Dakota quickly set the tone for an excellent weekend of racing.

 

Dakota #501

 

Throughout the course of the weekend, Dakota (age 11), lead numerous laps, earning money for the teams charitable organization, Laps 4 MD. She earned 5 moto wins in both Transition Girls and Transition 2 mixed class, giving her a clean sweep in Transition Girls and a 3rd overall on both days in Transition 2. This would make for Dakota’s most successful weekend in her racing career thus far.

 

Zoe #502

 

Zoe (age 8) is one of the first riders to experience the new Novice 200 class on her Arctic Cat ZR 200. It was quite an experience with her going 2:2 on Saturday, and 1:1 on Sunday, placing her on the top of the box for podium awards on Sunday. This was especially exciting as the Novice 200 class is part of the main show so Zoe was able to represent KSR and Bailey Motorsports in front of mass spectators.

 

Zoe also had her introduction to racing the “big sleds” this weekend on her Ski-Doo RS. She raced Transition Girls, achieving 6th overall on Saturday and 7th on Sunday. She also raced the Transition 1 (age 8-10) class, earning 7th on Saturday and 6th on Sunday. Although the intention was to gain some comfort and seat time on the big sled, Zoe was bitten by the competitive bug it seems, lifting her skis at the finish line when another racer was close by. The team has no doubt as her comfort increases that she will push her sled and her limits further and further.

 

 Brooklyn #500

 

Brooklyn (age 13) continued to show her determination and openness for change and challenge by boldly taking on the Junior classes this year. Looking fierce on her 2018 Bailey Motorsports Ski-Doo RS, outfitted in HMK gear, she rose to the challenge head on. Being the sole female in the competitive Junior 1 (age 14-15) put a little extra pressure on her to represent women in motorsports. With no hesitation off the line, Brooklyn easily made her way into the thick of each race and ended the weekend far exceeding her expectations with an 8th overall on Saturday and 7th on Sunday.

 

In the Junior Girls (age 14-17) class, Brooklyn achieved top three finishes in all motos and 1st overall on Saturday. On Sunday, Brooklyn charged hard in her moto 2, and was leading when she hit a deep rut on a rough track sending her into the snow. Even with the fall, she was able to get back on her sled and maintain a 3rd place finish.

 

As always, the season opener is a fun weekend giving racers a chance to see fellow race families and catch up. KSR would like to thank Glen Goodale from Bailey Motorsports for his mechanical input and to the whole Bailey Motorsports team for their continued support. KSR would like to congratulate Bailey Motorsports on a successful opening weekend, reaching the podium with #117 Isaac St. Onge who dominated the Pro Lite class! Pro rider Taylor McCoy #335 stepped on the podium Saturday and Sunday achieving 3rd place both days, while Pro rider Ryan Hunt #729 placed 4th overall. Yannick Boucher #52 represented the team well on his snow bike achieving a 2nd place finish on Saturday and top spot with a clean sweep on Sunday.

 

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

NEXT RACE: ROYAL DISTRIBUTING CUP, February 3-4, Barrie, ON

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Twitter & Instagram)

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Contact Jessica Kline, info@backwoodspromo.com

Duluth Snocross Nationals

Small-town Canadian Girl Races at Duluth Snocross Nationals
>> Dreams Reached Thanks to BAILEY MOTORSPORTS <<

Oakwood, ON (November 27, 2017) – Thousands of snocross racers, fans and supporters travelled to Duluth, Minnesota, for the largest race of the snocross season on November 24-26.

The Amsoil Snocross National presented by Kwik Trip, marked the season opener for the ISOC Series. The event, held at Spirit Mountain, is one that will be forever remembered by Brooklyn of Karkoulas Sisters Racing (“KSR”).

With sheer excitement in her eyes, mixed with a bit of nervous jitters, Brooklyn joined Bailey Motorsports, Canada’s pro Ski-Doo team, as they ventured across the border for an epic racing weekend. For KSR, this weekend represented so much more than just a race. It represented years of perseverance and dedication to get to this point. You don’t just get invited to join Canada’s top team at a National race for nothing; Brooklyn and her family worked hard to get to this point. So as the green flag dropped, she gritted her teeth and narrowed her eyes with focus. She revved the throttle of her 2016 Ski-Doo RS and was off.

Racing in both Junior Girls and Transition 8-13 classes kept Brooklyn and her team incredibly busy. Five days in Minnesota went by in a blur with a day of practice, plus additional track time prior to racing.

On Friday, she raced in the Junior Girls class, which saw great competitors in both rounds of qualifying before the final race. Brooklyn’s talent was evident on the track as she finished in fifth place overall.

On Saturday, Brooklyn raced in the Transition 8-13 class. She raced some great heats, with some of her fastest lap times of the weekend. She finished third in her round two heat, which sent her to the last chance qualifying round where she placed fourth to secure her place in the main race. With sheer determination, Brooklyn held her own against some of the fastest racers in that class to secure an 11th place finish at her first ISOC National race. The experience racing at that level was outstanding, and has motivated Brooklyn even more as she and her team prepares for the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA)season opener in Rouyn-Noranda, QC, January 12-14, 2018.

KSR would like to extend a special thank you to BAILEY MOTORSPORTS for their help and support to get Brooklyn and her sled to and from the race.

Additional thanks to: Ski-DooOff Road VixensBackwoods Promotions Inc.Backcountry Motorsports MediaDaycoHMK USASTUD BOY TractionCaliberOSM – On Snow MagazineC&A PRO SKISSCOTT MotosportsSunoco Racing139designsTekrider TekVestThe Compound – MuskokaLaps for Muscular Dystrophy

Season Finale in Barrie Brings National Championship

Hard Work, Perseverance and Positive Attitudes Pay Off for Karkoulas Sisters

Oakwood, ON (April 5, 2017) – Racers and fans from across Canada united at Horseshoe Valley Resort in Barrie, Ont., for the final race weekend of the Canadian Snowcross Racing Association (CSRA) championship. Karkoulas Sisters, Brooklyn, Dakota and Zoe, excitedly geared up in their Choko Design race gear eager to secure a National Champion title.

ZOE #502

Zoe hopped on her Polaris 120 stock and Briggs machines for what may be her last time on the 120 machines.  Executing some of her best starts this season had her out amongst the leaders numerous times in Stock two. However, one particular corner gave her trouble and saw her trackside up in the snow a few times throughout the weekend. None-the-less she was still able to get back on and finish her races. In the end, Zoe accomplished a fifth place final standing in the National Championship for stock 2 and earned a year of valuable experience on her Briggs snowmobile, finishing tenth overall in that class. 

For the 2017/18 season, Zoe is looking forward to being one of the first kids to race the CSRA circuit on a brand new 200cc snowmobile!

DAKOTA #501

Dakota had a whirl wind of a weekend combining two of her most loved sports – gymnastics and snowcross.  On Friday she bid good luck to her sisters and fellow competitors, and headed south for a required gymnastics competition.  This was incredibly difficult for Dakota, as she was potentially walking away from a third place snowcross championship in the points race.  Her parents still registered her on Friday in the Transition Girls class with fingers crossed that she could make the race and keep up her points. Thankfully, races were a bit behind schedule and with literally two minutes to spare, Dakota geared up and conquered a track she had never seen or practiced on.

In the end, all the effort paid off and Dakota completed the season with an impressive Third place National Championship.  She ended her season in Novice A with sixth overall and Transition mixed class in ninth place.  Next season, Dakota has goals of taking over her sister, Brooklyn’s, title as Transition Girls champion.

BROOKLYN #500

Brooklyn conquered what was likely her most stressful weekend of racing to date.  She entered Friday with a tie in the points race for the Transition Girls championship.  Unfortunately, she had a fall in her first moto but was able to take the checkered in the second moto giving her a third overall that day and trailing by 5 points heading in to Saturdays competition. 

On Saturday, Brooklyn rode fast and clean, capturing the checkered flag in both motos. As Sunday rolled in, so did Brooklyn’s nerves. As she sat atop her Ski-Doo RS 600, mentally preparing for the race, many fellow racers and supporters approached Brooklyn with well wishes and words of encouragement. 

 

Brooklyn was able to take first place in the first moto setting her up for an all or nothing second moto.  With nothing to lose but everything to gain, Brooklyn had a great start. A clean inside pass in the first corner was all she needed to get ahead and win the race, securing title of National Champion in the Transition Girls 8-13 class.

BAILEY MOTORSPORTS

Karkoulas Sisters Racing excitedly started this season by announcing a partnership with Bailey Motorsports. At that time, the goal was to mentor and support this young team of racers. Never did either team imagine the impact that this partnership would have on them. The realization came full circle on Sunday, which was the last day of racing for Stale Eggen of Bailey Motorsports, who had decided to retire from snowcross racing. Over the season, Stale had become Zoe’s idol and mentor. After the last checkered flag had flown this past weekend, Zoe was called to the Bailey Motosports trailer by none other than Stale himself, where he gifted her with a signed number plate right from his sled. Zoe spent the entire ride home planning where she would display her prized possession. That is what mentorship is all about.

A delay in the schedule this weekend gave KSR the opportunity to cheer on Bailey Motorsports team members. Isaac St. Onge threw one of the biggest fist pumps ever after capturing the final checkered flag in the Sport 600 class earning him two championship titles.

As previously mentioned, Stale Eggen rode his final CSRA race Sunday afternoon in the main event-  which  would have surely been bitter sweet for the pro open rider.  KSR wishes him all the best back home in Norway. Stale’s fellow Pro open rider Mitch King rode hard and secured some of his best finishes on an incredibly physically demanding track.  The Pro lite division was well represented with Ryan Hunt No. 729   earning an overall fourth place in the National Championship.  It was also great to see the Williams family lining up for some superb racing in the Briggs class and Novice category. 

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Mentorship - Bailey MotorsportsSEASON FINALE

The end of a race season always brings mixed emotions. Contentment and joy for the sport supersedes sadness; however the team will definitely miss the track community during the off-season. KSR relies heavily on the support and friendship of fellow track families. Every tidbit of advice given to KSR racers, every pat on the back, thumbs up or even a lucky coin (thanks Tom Wilson – mechanic for Isaac St Onge!) makes a huge difference. These small gestures are in fact quite large and help shape the girls racing mind set and attitudes. It is these phenomenal track friends that have helped build KSR racers back up when they were down and celebrated with them when they were up.  They have watched over them as they grow and thrive on the track; they learn sportsmanship, a sense of community and togetherness that they will forever remember as they grow as racers, and young women. This is what racing is about; it’s more than the checkered flag; it’s about the mentorship, comradery, and lessons learned. To each and every one of our supporters, we thank you, and look forward to seeing you all again next season!

Karkoulas Sisters Racing would like to thank their sponsors and supporters: Bailey Motorsports, Lucas Oil, Off Road Vixens, Backwoods Promotions, Backcountry Motorsports Media, Dayco Products, Stud Boy Traction, Choko Design, Gamma Powersports, Zoan Helmets, Dragon Goggles and LAPS 4MD.

 

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

FOLLOW US: @KSRsnowcross (Facebook, Twitter & Instagram)

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Contact Jessica Kline, info@backwoodspromo.com

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: Shelby Mahon / Backcountry Motorsports Media