PLATTSBURGH — Though frigid temperatures kept some fans away, the weekend's snowmobile event did well, and organizers are pleased.
"We were a bit behind in attendance from last year because of the cold, but that's part of the business," event sponsor Mike Perrotte of Airborne Speedway said.
"It's a weather-related event, and we are not complaining at all."
The East Coast Snocross Series event was held on a track outside the Crete Memorial Civic Center at the City of Plattsburgh's beach complex Saturday and Sunday.
Riders on the circuit raced in multiple events, jumping and gliding over hills on a course built mostly by snow guns last week. As usual, there were a few crashes and collisions, but no serious injuries were reported.
'OCCUPANCY WAY UP'
Perrotte said about 3,000 people attended the races over the weekend, fewer than last year's crowd of about 4,500.
"The event went off well with no real problems, and it was still a good weekend for the community," he said.
Scott Carpenter of Econo Lodge Inn and Suites, also a major sponsor, said the event gave a boost to community businesses.
"Occupancy was way up for this time of year," he said. "Normally, there is nothing going on at this time."
"We did have some cancellations because of the weather, but it was still very good for us."
Carpenter said more winter events are needed for the area.
"They (East Coast Snocross) loved our venue because the Crete is right there and people can go inside and get warm if they want," he said.
"This is the second year for this event, and, like the fishing tournaments, we started out small. They grew into big events, and I think we can grow on this one, too."
'SO MANY OPTIONS'
Guests at Carpenter's hotel came from all over the Northeast and Canada. Many of them spent time away from the races in town, eating and shopping.
"We have so many options here for visitors, and they love it," Carpenter said.
Mayor Donald Kasprzak said the city and the region benefit from such events, and the city is open to hosting more.
"Despite the cold weather this weekend, the Snocross event was well attended. The economic benefits for the region were very positive," he said.
"I appreciate the efforts of Eastern Snocross and Mike Perrotte and his staff."
City Recreation Director Steve Peters said the city is always looking for outdoor events to host.
"Even with the cold weather, there were a lot of people out there enjoying the racing," Peters said.
"We have to be proud of our winters, and this is a great way for us to demonstrate what we are all about in wintertime."
Email Joe LoTemplio at: jlotemplio@pressrepublican.com


