
Free Riderz has recently announced an upcoming snowmobile grass drag racing event, set to take place on May 16th at Moritz Ranch, located on Vermont Street in Conrad. This event marks a significant revival of a thrilling motorsport that has deep roots in the community. The Montana Snowmobile Racing Association (MSRA) previously hosted several popular snowmobile grass drag events but officially disbanded in 2010. With the efforts of Free Riderz, and in particular, the passion of veteran racer Kelly Fowler, who has been involved in the sport since the 1980s, this nostalgic racing experience is being brought back to life.
Last fall, Free Riderz held its inaugural race in Kalispell, attracting enthusiastic participants and spectators eager to relive the excitement of grass drag racing. In preparation for the competition, many participating snowmobiles have undergone modifications to enhance their performance, particularly in cooling systems, since these machines have traditionally relied on snow for thermal regulation.
For those interested in attending, the spectator fee is $10 for adults, while children under the age of 12 can enjoy the event for only $5. Competitors looking to participate in the races will face a race fee of $35 per class, in addition to a $20 insurance charge per racer, ensuring that all safety regulations are adhered to.
Participants can register between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM on the day of the event, with racing action set to kick off at 10:00 AM. Multiple racing classes will be featured, including Mountain Stock, Mountain Improved Stock, Mountain Mod, Open, and Vintage-Leaf Spring categories, providing a competitive and entertaining experience for both racers and spectators alike.
For more information, please feel free to reach out to Kelly Fowler at 406-470-0010 or Heidi Fowler at 406-590-8773, and let them know you found them in The Great Falls Gazette.
By Karen Anderson: May 9, 2026 – Great Falls, Mt