The Knox Trail Sno-Riders
We do not rent snowmobiles
Snowmobile Club, Inc., Otis, Massachusetts, USA
Making Otis a destination of choice for snowmobiling in Massachusetts!
CLUB NEWS
2/21/21
The Knox Trail Sno-Riders 2021 Poker Run Report:
The day was Sunday 02/21/2021 at 10am. The weather was perfect with bright blue skies, temps just below freezing, and a moderate breeze.
The snow was perfect. Four inches on Thursday and Friday fixed the damage done from Tuesday’s mini ice storm.
The venue was perfect. The Knox Trail Inn graciously hosted the event. There’s plenty of parking. Outdoor and indoor food and beverage service was available, along with restroom access, a fire pit, piped in music, and electricity for the entry booth heater.
The trails were perfect. The 24.6 mile loop was groomed to perfection by the Groomer Crew operators who were out in force until 3am. The crowd was perfect. They showed up right on time and the route maps sold out in ten minutes, sending others and myself scrambling for more copies!
The route took nearly 150 snowmobilers across most of the best trails and some a bit more difficult. The route headed southeast on Village Trail, down Miller Swamp Road to the Jack Shinkwin Memorial Trail, formerly Crossover Trail. Amos Case Road led to the twisty Woodruff and Lair Mountain Trails out to the pipeline. Continuing up Alan Road to West Otis Road and State Forest Road to the Reservoir Dam. Across the Rez to the twisty Porell Trail, Myers Trail, and Lyons Hill Extension, and to the north end of Big Pond. A fast run down the pond and Lattimer Hill brought the riders back to the Inn. A bonus loop took riders down the steep Farmington River Trail and along the river to the check point at the Green Bridge, giving them another chance to ride the fastest trails in the system. There were four check points where riders picked up colored popsicle sticks to turn in for their poker hand. Finishing the loop counted towards another card so up to six cards were drawn form a single deck in a cloth bag to make the best 5 card poker hand. One more 5 card draw could be purchased. Two jokers were wild. The total take of the $10 entry fees was split 50/50 with the winner.
There were no known accidents but excitement erupted early when a snowmobile (not in the event) caught fire on Walnut Lane. Otis fire was dispatched. Fortunately the fire was easily accessible to the first responders and no one was injured.
Patience prevailed in a long line of returning riders as the volunteers struggled through drawing and recording the 159 hands played.The winning hard was a 3 ace, 2 king natural Full House won by Chris Chaffee and that brought him a fine sum of $795!
The club has not had a poker run in 3 or four years. This one made up for it! Even with covid and the inability to have the traditional picnic, having it with the Knox Trail Inn as the host was perfect and they will most likely host it again next year. Thank you to all who supported, helped, groomed, and attended!
1/17/21
Knoxtrail Trail Sno-Riders drew the winning ticket to its Eleventh Annual Snowmobile raffle on Sunday night, January 17th. at the Knox Trail Inn in East Otis. The winner of a 2021 Ski-Doo MXZ Sport 600 was John Polastri of Becket, MA with lucky ticket No. 13!
5/20/20
A special outdoor meeting was held for election of new Club Officers and Board Members for the upcoming 2020/2021 season. Former president Jeff Gamelli and treasurer Diane Therrien have stepped aside after years of serving. Thank you to both of you for all you have done for the club! Former sceretary Paul Richard is now the new president. Here are the election results. New positions listed in Bold:
President: Paul Richard
Vice President: John Ruffo
Secretary: Alan Freedman
Treasurer: T.J.Kopyscinski
Grooming Director: Jonathan McGrath
Media Director: Jim Richard
SAM Delegate: Jim Richard
SAM Delegate Alternate: T.J.Kopyscinski
Board of Directors:
Paul Mastrianni, Jim Morweic, Alan Freedman, Heather Smith, TJ Kopyscinski, John Ruffo, Steve Palinkas, Paul Richard, Jim Richard, Steve DeLand
1/20/20
RAFFLE WRAP-UP
The 10 Annual Raffle is now history. Over 100 attended the drawing. The sled was won by the Alexanders with winning ticket #80. Thank you to everyone who participated!
4/14/19
The last meeting of the 2018/19 season was held on Sunday morning 4/14 at the Knox Trail Inn. Eleven members attended. Ideas were discussed concerning the lack of snow and the Club's survival. Plans are in the works for the next Sled Expo ( November), Antique Sled and Tractor Show (September 15th. ), the next Club meeting (September 29th. ), and a Pasta Dinner (tba). Elections were held with the following result: President- Jeff Gamelli
Vice President: John Ruffo
Secretary: Paul Richard
Treasurer: Diane Therrien
Grooming Director: John McGrath
Board of Directors: Jeff Gamelli, Jim Morwiec, Dianne Therrien, Jim Richard, Steve Deland, Andy Kutz, Paul Mastrianni, Paul Richard, John Ruffo, Steve Palinkas
1/27/19
After a one week delay due to the weather, over 150 snowmobilers and fans packed the Knox Trail Inn for the Ninth Annual Snowmobile Raffle and Dinner in East Otis, MA. After a buffet dinner of chicken and pork, many raffle prizes were drawn. Notable was a chain saw and a 50" Flat Screen TV. Also raffled were many gift certificates, gift baskets, and snowmobile gear. One lucky winner, Jon W. of Granby MA, won a new 2019 Ski-Doo MXZ 600 sport snowmobile with ticket #105. The Officials and Board of Directors thanks all who attended and volunteered to make this event a success even in this time of struggling with uncooperative winter conditions. Think snow!
11/19/18
Thank you to all who volunteered and attended the SAM Sled Expo on Saturday and Sunday! Saturday's show broke attendance records.
11/11/2018
The regular meeting had 10 attendees. The Board voted to change meetings to only one a month. See the meeting schedule for the new times. The Crossover Trail has been renamed in honor of Jack Shinkwin, a long time member who passed away earlier this year. The new trail name is The Jack Shinkwin Crossover Trail. Since enlarging their parking lot, the Knox Trail Inn is now open to sled trailer parking. It will be P4 on the map.
11/4/2018
Trail work party results.
Beautiful weather greeted seven club members for the first Trail Work Party. The Porell Trail 19 from Rainbow Road to W-16 was trimmed and a tight spot between two boulders was rerouted. Also, State Park Rd. (20) and Fire Tower Trail (39) were trimmed from KT20.2 to KT07. The volunteers enjoyed free pizza at the Knox afterwards. This is only a scratch in the surface of all the trails that need attention. More volunteers are needed! Help!
10/21/2018
It was a nice turnout Sunday, October 21, despite the cold wind. Vintage Sleds and Tractors filled the Knox Trail Inn parking lot for the sixth "BE BOLD RIDE OLD" show. Thanks to all who helped put this together, especially The Knox Trail Inn, Mel Scuderi, and John Ruffo! wrap-up and photo page
10/14/18
The second meeting of the season was held this morning at the new Knox Trail Inn location. Eleven members attended. Hats off to the management of the Inn for allowing us to use this great venue. The new acoustics in the Pine Room are game changing. Sound is much subdued and voices are easier to hear. Great job by the acoustic designer! And it's toasty warm! Thank you Diane and Jeff for the coffee and donuts. Anyone thinking of attending the next meeting on 10/24 should. You won't be disappointed. Also, let it be known the 9th. Annual Sled Raffle tickets are on sale and so are tickets to the SAM Super Trailer Raffle. JR
1/13/2018
Nearly 200 sled fans packed the Knox Trail Inn Saturday night for the Eighth Annual Snowmobile Raffle, Dinner, and Dance. An array of donated items were raffled off after a great buffet dinner provided by the Knox staff. One lucky Michelle Dugre was the winner of the 2018 Ski-Doo MXZ Sport snowmobile. DJ entertainer Vickie Rose kept the crowd dancing for hours after the drawing. photos
12/10/17
Meet the new Bombardier BR60. This 1993 machine was found on Craig’s List in upstate Vermont at a reasonable price. Upon inspection, the Board of Directors agreed this was would be a perfect addition to the groomer fleet. It was used at a VT technical high school to groom the cross country ski trails on campus. Included is an 8’4” wide 2004 drag. It has a turbo-diesel, factory ram-steering, automatic transmission, and for the first time on any KTSR groomer, an 8 foot Fisher 4 way plow. It runs well and the tracks, body, and undercarriage are in great shape. All it needs is some TLC, a paint job, and a few minor electrical repairs and lighting improvements. If you would like to help out with the project, call 413-931-3000 or leave an email at knoxtrail@gmail.com. You will be directed to the member in charge. This machine will join the new Kubota and all the other machines and sleds to make the KTSR grooming fleet the best on the snow!
12/9/17
The Sno-Phone has a new number. Call it at 413-931-3000.
9/30/17
It was a warmer than usual September day for the fifth Knox Trail Sno-Riders "BE BOLD RIDE OLD" SLED & TRACTOR SHOW. Over 45 participants came to the IWL field in Otis, bringing with them a great collection of Vintage Iron. more info and photos
8/11/17
Hard work done by VP Andy Kutz, Pres. Jeff Gamelli, and others applying to the Mass. 2016 Recreational Trail Grant Award Program has allowed KTSR to purchase the following:
"A multi-season package for winter grooming and off-season trail maintenance and improvement", consisting of:
A 2016 Kubota L3901 HST (37 HP) with a LA525 Loader and a BH77 Back Hoe
Also a Curtis Cab with heater, Soucy ST-300 Tracks (awaiting arrival), and a 15,000lb Warn Winch.
For grooming an Arrowhead 6' x 12' Mini-drag with hydraulic cylinders is included.
The grooming package was put together by Doug Wilson of Mountain Grooming in Waitsfield VT. Doug worked with Champlain Valley Equipment to source the Kubota Tractor and Curtis Cab. Andy worked directly with Dave Walker of Arrowhead Groomers (part of Walker Equipment) in St Germain WI. and arranged purchase thru it's distributor, Mountain Grooming.
6/1/2017
Al Hurley 1928-2017
With great sadness KTSR reports the passing of founding member Al Hurley. Al has been a member since it's beginning as the Otis
Snowmobile Club in 1971. Al served numerous terms as president and treasurer. He received the first "Honorary Lifetime Member Recognition" award in 2009. Al will be missed. His obituary in the Republican may be viewed here.
Al received the first Honorary Lifetime Recognition Award. This clipping is from Knox Knews Issue 38-4 in April 2009
4/11/17
The final meeting of the season took place on Sunday, April 9th. Discussions included the next Annual Sled Raffle, Dinner, and Dance, end of season ramp and fence removals, the new groomer tractor, summer projects, and more. Gordon Middleton is the newest Board Member. He displayed his "SAM Trail Worker of the Year Award which he received at the SAM Annual Dinner on April 6th. Club service awards were presented to Jack Shinkwin, Steve Deland, and Paul Richard. Club officer election results are as follows (*new officers, all others incumbents): President, Jeff Gamelli, Vice President, Andy Kutz*, Treasurer, Diane Therrien, Secretary, Paul Richard. Board of Directors: Jeff Gamelli, Jim Morwiec, John Galloni, Dianne Therrien, Ross Helberg, Jim Richard, Steve Deland, Andy Kutz, Paul Mastrianni, Jack Shinkwin, Paul Richard, John Ruffo, Gordon Middleton* Photos
2/13/17
The annual poker run happened on Sunday Feb. 12 at the Alexander's and the Snow Gods really produced! Fifty sleds participated and 55 hands were played. The course was nearly 21 miles long. Since some of the reservoir ice was not safe, a course circling the rez was set up. A few sections were somewhat rough with a few mud holes, but the 4 inches of snow that fell during the event and extensive grooming by Gordon Middlefield on the new Bearcat, Andy Kutz on the new VK, and Paul Richard with the Sambar really smoothed things out. You guys are the best! The route encompassed every type of trail KTSR offers, from the twistiest narrow rabbit path, to the widest and fastest, to the steepest (mostly downhill), and the most scenic Farmington River Trail. Chef Tom Garbati served up burgers and dogs, while Diane Therrien and Pam Richard handled the registration table. The winner was Jim Ferris and he generously gave back a substantial groomer donation. Way to go Jim! Photos
1/8/17
The Seventh Annual Raffle Drawing, Dinner, and Dance was held at the Stockbridge Sportsman's Club Saturday night. The weather was not as cooperative as some would like, but still, over 165 people packed the hall. The winning ticket was #54 belonging to Donna and Joe Kasa of Wilbraham. Photos
10/23/16
Paul Richard is the new secretary.
10/1/16
KNOX TRAIL SNO -RIDERS
BE BOLD RIDE OLD SLED & TRACTOR SHOW 2016
The weather was cool and crisp on an autumn day that brought out 36 Vintage Sleds and 18 Vintage tractors! We counted 127 vehicles coming into the show.
This Show has become a much anticipated event here at the spacious Izaak Walton Field in Otis MA.
Even with last season's terrible winter, many trail passes were sold! As well as raffle tickets for the 2017 Ski-Doo raffle coming up in January. There was a table full of trophies given out to the participants, all winners, 1st through 3rd place were chosen by the spectators as well as the participants. My favorite contest was for "loudest pipes". Without a decibel meter, we had to use crowd applause to determine the winner. It was a close contest between the three vintage racers, until young Tim DeLuca fired up his Kitty Kat as dad held up the rear end. The crowd erupted with applause and hooting cheers leaving no doubt of the winner! What great sports! As Jon Tobin of the Burgy Bullets said, "That kid might become a club president some day".
Lots of Raffle prizes were given out throughout the day including many Snap-on tools. All ballots turned in received a free raffle ticket for voters prizes! In the past our club members cooked great food all day and I thank you for your dedication. This year we invited Eddie and Angies Food Engine.They did not disappoint. A steady stream of hungry people were kept happy all day.
Thanks to all the volunteers that pulled this all together.
The KTSR snowmobile club once again stepped up and kept this sport alive and well.
Be Bold Ride Old!
Mel Scuderi
Here are the trophy winners:
Snowmobiles
Best original racer: Rob Onofreo, 1970 Puma mod 290
Best Registered Vintage Sled Bud Gordon, 1967 Sno-Jet Bud also won furthest traveled, came from Ware NH.
Rat Runner : Ethan Williams 1970 Massey Furgeson Ski-Whiz
Best Restored Racer: Michael Wood 1977 Yamaha SRX
Best Restored : Ed Castellano 1966 Ski Doo
Most Original: Ed Castellano 1973 Polaris Charger.
Powder Puff: Debbie Kozdronkiewicz 1972 Arctic Cat Kitty Kat.
Junior Class: Ashlee Kozdronkiewicz 1979 Mercury Sno-Twister
Tractors
Rat Runner: Ben Pilgrim, 1968 Massey Furgeson
Best Restored: Tim Pease, Custom Made Cub Cadet
Most Original: William Bakunis 1957 Wonder Boy
Junior Class: Tim Deluca 1966 John Deer
Mel had a tough weather call to make. He announced postponement from the 18th to the 25th on Sept. 16th. Although the weather on the 18th improved throughout the day, the 25th turned out stellar! Great call Mel! JR
8/8/16
The seventh annual snowmobile raffle, dinner, and dance details are now official! Find out more and buy your tickets here!
7/12/16
"Be Bold Ride Old" 2016 Vintage Snowmobile and Tractor Show plus Swap Meet
Here's your chance to pull out that old snowmobile or tractor, clean it up, and and show it off at the fourth Knox Trail Sno-Riders Vintage Snowmobile and Tractor Show plus Swap Meet.
It all happens on Sunday, September 18, 2016, from 9am - 4 pm at the Izaak Walton League field on Tannery Road in Otis, MA. The rain date is 9/25
Parking is $2 per car. Admission and entry is free and no pre-registration is required! Vendor spaces are only $10. Sell your parts, sled or ATV, or crafts and household items too!
Sleds and tractors must be at least 25 years old. Tractors can range from toy tractors to farm tractors.
Entry classes include most original, best restored, and worst running condition, with categories for the ladies, juniors, and more.
Trophy winners will be chosen by the attendees. Voters will receive a ticket for prizes.
Otis is a great location for this vintage show. The last vintage trail ride hosted by the Knox Trail Snowmobile club was the largest ever in Massachusetts. Dozens of old sleds were pulled out of local garages or trailered in from other towns. Riders took to the trails with the same kind of sleds that pioneered the sport 40+ years ago! Many of the sleds were 440cc or less, and with their primitive suspensions, were loud and loose. They bring back memories of how early snowmobiling really was! Come share your family's riding history, and your vintage sled or tractor, at the fourth BE BOLD, RIDE OLD Vintage Snowmobile and Tractor Show plus Swap Meet!
Location: Tannery Road, Otis, MA
Time: Show starts at 9:00am Ends at 4:00pm Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016 POSTPONED TO 9/25
Go to www.knoxtrail.com for more info or call Mel Scuderi at 413.262.1517 or email Mel at mel72440 @ russellma.net
4/10/16
The last meeting of the 15/16 season was held Sunday morning. Voting results are: PRESIDENT: Jeff Gamelli, VICE PRESIDENT: Jim Morawiec, SECRETARY: Open, TREASURER: Diane Therrien, BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Jeff Gamelli, Jim Morwiec, John Galloni, Dianne Therrien, Ross Helberg, Jim Richard, Steve Deland, Andy Kutz, Paul Mastrianni, Jack Shinkwin, Paul Richard. The position of Secretary remains open. Attendance barely yielded a quorum to elect the new officer slate. This is not good. Although it was a dismal year, the need for member involvement does not diminish! If you didn't attend, you missed some awesome breakfast sandwiches cooked up by Dianne!
4/7/16
Northampton, MA.
The annual SAM meeting and banquet at the Blue Bonnet Diner yielded prestigious awards for two KTSR associates. Member Collin Mackie received the " Junior Snowmobiler of the Year" award for his hard work and dedication to the sport. As you may recall, Collin's father Keith won the Ski-Doo. Quite a year for the Mackies!
KTSR friend, Al Joy's Arctic Cat of Southington, CT received the "Dealer of the Year" award for their support of the sport and this club! Congratulations to all!
2/16/16
Trails are closed. The weather is not cooperating.
2/13/16 (2)
After careful consideration the trails have been opened BUT riding is very, very limited. The snow is very thin and there is no grooming. If you do ride use best judgement, ride slowly, and beware of hidden rocks and obstacles.
2/13/16
The high hopes to open the trails by today just didn't materialize. We did get some snow but not enough. The trails remain closed.
2/9/16
Many callers are asking if the trails are open but unfortunately the 2/7 and 2/9 storms did not add up to enough. Trails are still closed
2/7/16:
We got some snow BUT we need more. Earlier last week the ground under the bare trails was quite frozen, then came temps in the 50's and an inch of rain. The 5 inch snow that fell Friday has a lot of water under it. That is about to change however. Winter temps are back and will even go below zero soon. The base should firm up well and there are days of snow showers forecast. This may really add up! With some luck the Poker Run just may happen. As soon as the trails open, find out right here.
1/21/16 RAFFLE RESULTS:
Keith Mackie of Becket won the Ski-Doo MXZ 600 with ticket #66 at the drawing on January 9, 2016
Keith is a very active member, and along with son Collin, grooms the October Mountain trails, builds custom drags, and donates his time freely. Way to go Keith!!
Many thanks to all who entered!
1/21/16 NEW WEB SITE
The new website is up and running.
1/23/16
The new mobile site is up and running