RANKIN INLET
Noel Kaludjak is heading up a new group of volunteers to run the annual cross-country snowmobile race to unofficially kick-off Pakallak Tyme celebrations in Rankin Inlet.

Noel Kaludjak is the new oraganizer of the Kivalliq Challenge cross-country snowmobile race which will get underway later this month. - NNSL file photo

The event was run for a number of years by the Qaqutnaq Racing Club under the leadership of race co-ordinator Ross Tatty.

Kaludjak said the race will be referred to as the Kivalliq Challenge, with the maximum size of machine allowed set at 600 cc.

He said when he found out the previous organizers wanted a break and were looking for someone else to run it, he decided to step up.

"I've been involved with racing since I was 16, mostly in Whale Cove and Rankin Inlet," said Kaludjak.

"I raced every chance I got since, and was in this race in Rankin this past year.

"I finished fourth in the 40-and-older division.

"It's a good event, especially starting Pakallak Tyme, and I didn't want to see it fade away."

Kaludjak said "a few guys" are helping him organize the race, which is set to go April 26 and 27.

He said he hopes to see the same number of racers come out this year who took part in 2013.

"As soon as I heard Ross (Tatty) and his wife weren't running it anymore, I decided to get involved.

"That was this past fall and, since then, we've held one bingo fundraiser and we're holding another this coming Friday, April 19.

"Hopefully, that will raise enough for all the prizes."

Kaludjak said he's still looking for more volunteers to help run the event.

He said he does have some lined up to help with the fundraising and the races, but he still needs more.

"We need someone to sign up all the racers and collect their entry fees.

"We also need people to inspect the machines prior to racing, set the track up, help with the rules, and be race officials at the checkpoints during the race."

As of press time, confirmed categories were junior (18 and under), senior (19 and older) and master (40 and older).

Kaludjak said his group is still trying to gather enough interest to include a Bravo Division this year.

He said the race will be two-mile laps, with, probably, five to seven laps in the qualifying heats, 15 to 20 laps in the semifinals, and the finals to be determined.

"The level of racers in Rankin is very high and there are a lot of nice machines here.

"The machines matter, but endurance is the key factor in cross-country racing, so drivers have to be physically fit and possess a good mental attitude.

"The number one priority is to keep everyone safe during the races, so everyone, drivers and fans, enjoy the event.

"We want our racers to be safe, fair and have fun."

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