Ski-Doo Racers Van Meter and McKenna Win Alaska Iron Dog

The Iron Dog Snowmobile race, one of the world’s toughest endurance tests, is over and Ski-Doo pilots Marc McKenna and Dusty Van Meter have claimed the crown.

This grueling race takes place over six days in extremely rugged terrain and the worst winter weather conditions, where temperatures reach -40 degrees. Both the racers and their machines need to be fast and very durable to take the brutal pounding the Alaska backcountry delivers.

Veteran racers Van Meter and McKenna covered the 2031mile (3269 km) course in 35 hours and 39 minutes, a course record, at an average speed of 57 mph (92 km/hr), which considering fuel stops and tight, slow sections gives an idea how fast the race is.

“Our E-TEC powered Ski-Doo sleds gave us a distinct advantage allowing us to carry less fuel on board and make quicker fuel stops even when running wide open for long stretches,” says McKenna. “Plus, it was bulletproof all race long, no hiccups, no nothing.”

McKenna and Van Meter chose the MX Z 600 X model with the Rotax E-TEC 600 H.O. engine for their race mounts.

“This sled is the complete package,” says Van Meter. “It’s durable, fast, lightweight and smooth riding, which made it easier on our bodies.”

Congratulations to both racers and the many dealers from Alaska who support them, especially Team CC and Compeaus.