Posted by Sudbury Northern Life 
Snowmobilers across the City of Greater of Sudbury and surrounding areas will be revving up their engines to kick off the annual Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids event on Saturday, Feb. 7 at the Naughton Community Centre.
Registration starts at 9 a.m. and the ride begins at 10 a.m. This unique fundraising experience combines the thrill of snowmobile riding with an assortment of family activities, all to help children with physical disabilities overcome barriers.
The ride goes to Fairbanks with stops along the way for prize draws and a fire stop at Fairbanks resort for a break and warm up. The ride continues back to Naughton Community Centre for lunch and prizes at approximately 1 p.m.
Taking place on Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs' (OFCS) groomed trials, Snowarama challenges winter sports enthusiasts in communities throughout the province to raise donations for Easter Seals.
Last year, the event brought in $22,000 locally for children with physical disabilities. The event was conceived by Whipper Billy Watson in 1975 and has so far raised more than $15.5 million from more than 30 communities across Ontario.
Raising a child with a physical disability can cost an additional $40,000 a year. Donations to Snowarama will directly assist financing for vital communications and mobility equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs and communication devices.
They will also help children and youth attend Easter Seals fully accessible summer camps and provide other summer recreational experiences such as swimming and art classes.
"Snowarama is a resounding success each year as people come out to enjoy the winter season while helping to improve the lives of children with physical disabilities," says Lisa Lounsbury, development manager, Easter Seals Ontario, in a release.
Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids is sponsored by The Sudbury Trail Plan and endorsed by OFCS. For more information on how to participate or donate, please call the Easter Seals office at 566-8858.
