All manner of racing vehicles took to the ice at ShoWare Center last Saturday to participate in the International Champion Event’s (ICE) “worldwide” speedway ice racing event.”This 35 year old tradition began in Kent, Ohio when a gang of dirt bike speedway racers drove their break-less single-speed motorcycles onto the Kent State University Hockey Field,” said photographer Chris Hunt on his blog. “Now, three decades later, the sport and machines have evolved far beyond their traditional design. Motorcycles, quads, and small cars have all been specially designed to handle the low-friction speedway track.”The competition was so fun that even Elmo put in an appearance.Photos by Chris Hunt.Published on December 6, 2010
After a circuit or two of motocross, the quads had their turn on the ice.
Each racing vehicle was specially designed to handle well on the ice. These are the high friction studs installed in each tire.
Each racing vehicle was specially designed to handle well on the ice. These are the high friction studs installed in each tire.
To save on weight and decrease complexity, these small cars do not have a battery or engine starter installed. Instead, motorcycle batteries are connected externally to help get the engine moving. The batteries are then detached and the miniature cars enter the race track.
To save on weight and decrease complexity, these small cars do not have a battery or engine starter installed. Instead, motorcycle batteries are connected externally to help get the engine moving. The batteries are then detached and the miniature cars enter the race track.
After watching highly specialized vehicles tear up the ice for an hour, the crowd got a laugh when Elmo and friends attempted to navigate the track on 50cc urban scooters. The traction was so poor, that some just threw their scooters to the ground and started running.
Run, Elmo, run!
After all the preliminary heats and scooter disasters, it was time for the final event. Each vehicle class raced one last time, battling for first place.
After all the preliminary heats and scooter disasters, it was time for the final event. Each vehicle class raced one last time, battling for first place.
After all the preliminary heats and scooter disasters, it was time for the final event. Each vehicle class raced one last time, battling for first place.
After all the preliminary heats and scooter disasters, it was time for the final event. Each vehicle class raced one last time, battling for first place.
