Race Day - Saturday February 6th, 1998

We are pleased to announce that the 1999 Great Northern Concrete Toboggan Race will be held at the River Valley Golf Club. Located approximately 1 hour west (driving) from Waterloo, Ontario, the River Valley Golf Club has been selected as the ideal location. During the winter months, the River Valley transforms itself from a quite golf club to an exciting inner tubing event centre.

Snow making machinery has been the River Valleys secret to success producing an average snow base of 3 - 4 feet before January. On any given day, the River Valley can accommodate upwards of 1000 snowbound tubers with it's 8 tubing tracks and 2 tow ropes.

During the GNCTR '99, 4 of the tubing tracks will be closed for tubing and redesigned to accommodate the race. The track will be approximately 9 feet wide with 2 foot snow barriers on either side. This track will be created by a snow grooming machine so design your toboggans accordingly. The length of the track has not been officially determined but it will be in the range of 180-220 metres, with an allowable breaking distance of 60 - 80 metres before an up hill slope and snow fence are encountered. The vertical height of the hill is approximately 80-90 metres resulting in a track slope of 20-30 degrees. The track will be designed and built straight (no bends or corners) with no flat sections.

When teams are not racing they are encouraged to watch and cheer the other competitors from the designated viewing areas. One of the areas will be located on only one side of the track. The other side has been reserved for the hard working track repair people (while working only) and the snow mobiles that will tow the toboggans to the starting line. The other designated viewing area will be very appealing to some I am sure. On the adjacent hillside to the race track, the River Valley Golf Club has their club house and patio. The River Valley has graciously agreed to open the club house and patio for GNCTR's use throughout the day. Washrooms, food and beverages will be available in the club house.

Anyone who is interested in inner tubing as well as competing in the race will be required to pay an additional charge for the use of the inner tubes. The River Valley has informed us that the tubbing facilities will be open to the public during the day as well so we ask that you respect the rules and regulations set out by the River Valley Golf Club.

This years event is tentatively scheduled to begin at 9:00 am sharp. Every toboggan registered and safetied will be guaranteed at minimum of 2 runs. In order for this to occur, all toboggans must be assembled and ready to slide bright and early. A 5 minute time limit will be enforced during the race. If you are not prepared to race within 5 minutes from your scheduled time, you position will be forfeited.

My words of advice are slide fast, have fun and drive safe. Good luck to all. If you have any concerns regarding race day, e-mail Kevin Grasty, Race Day Co-ordinator.