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    So, our announcer asked the question....Who has come the farthest to be at the Turtle Races? Naturally, there is a loud cry calling out the names of many cities around the US... then a voice says, “Argentina!” How does that happen? There always is representation from all over the country, but Argentina? Well, naturally most people are here visiting relatives. But how did the relatives get here? For some unknown reason, Longville has a high percentage of teachers, and with those teachers come artistic talents. Perhaps it is the charm of a small community located in the heart of so many beautiful lakes, the forests and long winding dirt roads leading deep into the countryside. Regardless, we are all happy to be here and share it’s beauty with our family and friends. 

Resort race winner...

Sam Alicia from New Market, IL walked away with the big W this week representing Long Birch Lodge, pictured here with Nancy Loren of Little Boy Resort. Photo submitted.

Turtle race champions

This week’s Grand Winner was nine year old Kason Peterson (left) of Stratford, IA. The Grand Slowpoke went to 12 year old Logyn Heavner from Albert Lea, MN. Photo submitted.

Turtle race fan

An appreciative turtle race fan dropped off a creative thank you card at the Turtle-mobile this last Wednesday. Photo submitted.

   So, back to our Argentina guest. He is Lucas Altamira from Cordoba, Argentina. He is married to Heather who is the daughter of Ron and Sue Johnson, who live on that special treasure, Hunter Lake. I am sure he is impressed with its tranquility, crystal clear water,  lush vegetation and privacy! So, there you have it!

   Now, back to the races. We entertained 339 racers and our math tells us we had in total about 1200 plus guests. A piece of cake for our team! The weather was perfect, a touch of cool. Which had our first race going a little slow... those turtles needed a little warm up or we would have been there all day! But true to form our little racers rose to the challenge and entertained the crowds with close matches and even some ties! We know that this can be a highpoint of anyone’s visit and we want everyone to act up and have fun. So, the cheering on the sidelines can get quite entertaining!! This was the 5th of our 10 races, closing with the last race on August 16.

   If you haven’t come by yet, come see us. We’ll take good care of you. A cute closing anecdote..our Grand Slowpoke winner, Logyn Heavner, kissed his turtle before he would give him up to us. He said, “I told my turtle I would kiss him if he won”...he was serious. These races mean a lot to people and we love that. See you next week!

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