7th Annual Riley Suhan Backcountry Snowmobile Race Recap: The Race That Rewrite the Rules
In a sport often defined by builds, branding and budgets, the Riley Suhan Backcountry Snowmobile Race strips it all back. There are no machine classes, no separation between sleds and snow bikes, and no barrier to entry beyond the willingness to show up and ride. A stock sled can line up beside a turbo build, and a first-time racer can share a team with a seasoned pro. Everyone rides the same terrain and contributes to the same result. It’s real, unpredictable, and exactly why it works.
Held in the riding zone of Quartz Creek and organized by the Golden Snowmobile Club, this event has become one of the most anticipated grassroots races in the snowmobiling community over the last seven years.
This year’s track may have been the same course as last year, with some minor adjustments, but snow conditions allowed for an entirely different feel. Riders commented on how dynamic the terrain became under pressure, facing a constantly evolving mix of jumps, whoops, technical climbs, fast descents, tight trees, and blown-out lines that demand quick decisions and adaptability. It’s not just a loop but rather a full-spectrum test of backcountry riding.
Another epic addition this year was the kid’s zone which was full of little 200 and 120’s all day long. Showcasing that this event is truly a family-friendly event and inclusive for all.
Rider Shawn Gidney @shank_850 has attended for the last three years and said: ‘The 7th Annual Riley Suhan Race was everything sledding should be. Insane talent, full throttle day, and a solid crew of like-minded riders just out to have a good time. No drama, just pure backcountry sled culture. Can’t wait for next year!’
Event Images by: Megan Dawn Visuals
Rider Melissa Walper had to say: ‘This is my third year attending the Suhan Race, and it just keeps getting better. It’s the event I look forward to every year. Great year end wrap up seeing new and familiar faces bonding over 2 stroke, adrenaline, and high vibes. Nothing compares to race day and a day in the mountains with all those who share a passion for the same sport. The vibes are vibing and the energy is flowing. Whether you’re watching or racing – it’s a good time to be had making memories.’
Under 24hr Sell Out
Selling out in just 20 hours after registration opened, it’s a clear signal of how quickly this event has cemented itself as a must-attend on the spring calendar. On race day, that demand translated into a massive turnout, with roughly 140 racers, over 200 spectators, and more than 400 sleds converging into one alpine zone, turning the backcountry into something that felt equal parts race and reunion. After the full lap wraps, the top 30 fastest riders of the day move into a pro class final. Giving the opportunity for riders to ‘give it their all’ with a spectator’s dream view of the hillclimb. While there may have been less carnage than last year, as 28/30 riders made it to the top, it showed just how skilled of riders came out for the event.
Rider Photos by: Four Edge Photography
This isn’t just a race.
At its core, this isn’t just a race – it’s a gathering. It’s the rider meeting where strangers become teammates, the shared suffering of a brutal lap, and the stories told at the banquet afterward, but it’s also the behind-the-scenes effort that makes it all possible. Volunteers show up a day early to help set the course, manage safety, and keep the day running, and then everyone lends a hand cleaning up afterwards. Riders, and organizers all pitch in, reinforcing a sense that this event belongs to the community as much as it does to the competitors. In a sport that often offers space for egos to grow, this event shows a culture that prioritizes participation and community.
One notable highlight was Yeti Snowbike Athlete Mat Cox Prolap Run where his limiter strap snapped right as he was about to peak the hill climb portion ending him with a DNF standing.
Mikey Reeves from Velocity Vids had this to say about the event:
Tim Grey with Mountain Sledder News also had a chance to catch up with top winner Blake Punchard to hear his thoughts on the event and what it took to get him to the win. You can view it here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWev-ZOkivH/
Full results from the 2026 event can be found here: https://zone4.ca/race/2026-03-28/9c4276b6/results
In an era where competition often feels over polished, and sponsor-driven, the Riley Suhan Backcountry Race stands apart. It’s messy, real, and human. Maybe that’s why it keeps growing, because it reminds riders what drew them to the mountains in the first place. Community focused, and grassroots driven.
Thank you Riley and the entire Suhan Backcountry Event Team for another successful year. Next year’s event is already set for April 3, 2027.
