Living in the Northland, people have to make the most out of the cold temperatures.  KCPRO-East hosted a youth snowmobile racing event Saturday on Pike Lake in Duluth.  Kids ages 4-16 with various types of sleds gathered on the oval ice track.  KCPRO-East Treasurer Katie Hagglund has been involved with the organization for three years.

"We race pretty much all day, and then celebrate them at the end with some awards and gift bags and stuff," Hagglund said.

People came from all over Minnesota, Wisconsin, and even Canada, to participate.

Hagglund estimated around 100 to 150 people stopped by at some point during the 6-hour event.

6-year-old Max Hagglund has been racing for three years.

"I have three snowmobiles because I race three classes," Max said.

Max's favorite part is just having fun, but 4-year-old Ari Hagglund likes the hardware.

"[I like] getting the trophies!" Ari said.

Hagglund said youth snowmobile racing is a way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends.

"For my boys, it's a great way for them to get outside, especially during the cold months and especially right now with everything shut down for COVID, it's nice to finally be able to safely gather with people and let them have some fun," Hagglund said.

A bit of fun mixed with some speed makes for a weekend well spent.

"Our kids have all known each other and kind of grown up together now, so we have a great time each weekend," Hagglund said.

You do not have to be a KCPRO-East member to race.  It is also free for people to go and watch.They race every weekend at different locations across Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Click here for more information about KCPRO-East and to view their racing schedule.

To watch a video version of this report and see related stories, follow this link to theKBJR-TV website.  https://kbjr6.com/2021/01/16/kids-gaining-speed-and-enjoying-the-outdoors-with-youth-snowmobile-raci...