TOWNSEND, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Folks in the Northwoods are getting ready for the big Red Arrow Snowmobile ATV Club corn roast, and those putting on the event are celebrating a major milestone.
Volunteers put the finishing touches on decorations inside the big white tent Friday morning. The annual corn roast draws thousands from around the region to Townsend.
“This is a corn roast, and guess what? The best part is our sweet corn is free at this event. So come eat all you can,” said Gary Wagner, Red Arrow Snowmobile ATV Club President.
This year, the roast is also a celebration. Red Arrow is marking the club’s 50th birthday. Money raised at the roast pays for snowmobile trail maintenance and equipment, like a new groomer.
“We just purchased a brand new Tucker. A 2019 was delivered I want to say in June, and we got to pay for it yet,” said Carl Christensen, Red Arrow Snowmobile ATV Club.
The club offers safety lessons too.
“We have ATV classes coming September 15th and 16th. We have snowmobile classes coming on October 27th and 28th,” said Larry Westphal, Red Arrow Snowmobile ATV Club.
People between the ages of 12 and 30 need to be certified before they can drive. Parents are encouraged to attend class with their kids.
“There’s a lot of factors that come into play, that without it being brought to your knowledge, you’re not really aware,” said Christensen.
Red Arrow will also join a trail patrol ambassador program, where certified club members offer help on the trails.
“If they have a flat tire, certainly stop and extend a hand to them, or if they’re sitting at an intersection with a map, offer to help them. Where can I help you go? Where you looking to get?” said Wagner.
For those looking to get to the corn roast, the event will go on whatever the weather.
“You know rain or shine, you see the big top we’ve got going here. Some of our most successful events have been on rainy days in the past. You can’t go out on the water, you can’t work in your garden, you can’t mow your grass. Come over and have a good time,” said Wagner.
The event kicks off with an ATV parade Saturday morning around 10:00 a.m.
As far as corn, club members say 1,500 ears are ready to go.
