Snowmobiles In The Summer: Water Skip Events Attract Big Crowds

Drawing more than 1,500 spectators each year, the Union Water X Series races are definitely something you’ll want to hit this summer, particularly if you’re a fan of extreme sports.

Combining snowmobiles, water and speed, the events, which take place on the first Sunday of July and August in Union (about 45 minutes east of Suffield on Route 190), are hosted by Martin Michalec, the founder of the Nipmuck Trail Riders.

For those unfamiliar with watercross, the Water Skip is a competitive event in which snowmobiles compete in a variety of races on the water, including a quarter-mile drag, ovals, figure eights and jumps.

Back when the first Water Skips were held in the late 1970’s, the goal was to travel 300 feet on the water. Today’s competitions feature more powerful and customized snowmobiles that can handle greater distances and more extreme maneuvers. Personal flotation devices, helmets and buoys tethered to the machines are required for today’s competitions. If a rider does not complete the course and sinks, the buoy marks the snowmobile for retrieval by a specially-equipped boat.

The two Water Skip events in Union are free and open to the public, however a $5 donation is typically requested for parking to help cover club costs for these events, which also feature music and a concession stand for food and drink (no alcoholic beverages allowed.)

Both the July 3 and the August 7 Water Skips begin at 9:30 a.m., with the official start of racing at noon. If you would like to participate in the races, call 860-684-2228. All riders are welcome, and trophies will be awarded at the end of the day. Advance practice times are available.

Directions to the Water Skips (on Route 190 in Union, CT) and additional information can be found on the Nipmuck Trail Riders website at www.nipmucktrailriders.com.

In the meantime, check out these You Tube videos of past Water Skip events in Union:

• Snowmoblie Water Skips & Jumps in Union, CT
• Snowmobile Watercross Race at Union, CT... 800 Pro Ovals