Conquer the Cold: The Snowy Safari Rally Awaits

Get ready, rally fans! This weekend, the roads of Minden, Ontario, will transform into a winter wonderland of challenges as the PMSC presents The Snowy Safari Rally! Prepare for an epic 400+ km journey through some of the most legendary winter rally territory, including the notorious Davis Lake, Salerno Lake, Fortesque, and Salmon Lake roads.  

Image from PMSC event site

Full details here: https://pmsc.on.ca/event/snowy-safari-rally/

This isn't your average Sunday drive. With fresh snow expected this week, teams will face a true test of skill and endurance. Imagine battling for traction on icy hills and winding roads, all while the clock ticks through the frosty night. Seven grueling hours, from 10 PM Saturday, February 15th, 2025, to 7 AM Sunday, February 16th, 2025, will push competitors to their limits.

Even with what organizers are calling "dead-easy" navigation, the late-night hours are sure to bring some unexpected twists and turns (and maybe a few navigational blunders!). Snow, ice, hills, tricky roads, and the gnawing grip of exhaustion will be the constant companions for every team. Only those who are truly prepared will conquer the Snowy Safari.

What does it take to succeed? Top-notch snow tires are essential, along with plenty of warm coffee to combat the frigid temperatures and late hours .   Fully equipped teams come with high powered auxiliary lighting and rally computers.  And, of course, safety triangles are a must-have for any unexpected roadside situations.

The adventure begins and ends at the Minden Curling Club, where a well-deserved catered breakfast and a share of the $1000 cash prize pool await the intrepid finishers. Are you ready to embrace the challenge? 

The excitement is building as 18 teams have officially registered for the Snowy Safari, ready to tackle the challenging course. Among them are yours truly and my trusty teammate, piloting his trusty 2006 Subaru Impreza (pictured above!). We're eager to put our skills and our car to the test against the elements and the other competitors. Will we conquer the snow and ice, or will the Snowy Safari claim us as another winter driving casualty? Stay tuned after the event for a full post-rally report, where we'll share all the thrills, spills, and near-misses of our adventure. We'll let you know how we fared against the competition and the unforgiving winter landscape.

The Snowy Safari awaits!