---

   Took the day off...well not exactly. Took the day off from the races to help a friend move. Haven’t missed those races in years...maybe 20! I remember when I first volunteered. The little gal from Austin’s Swamp was the judge. She was little, but a real pistol. She didn’t stand for any fooling around. So, I was her helper and learned the ropes from her. Then, one day she was going to the hospital for what I understood was a basic operation...if you can say that about any operation...and you shouldn’t because there is an element of risk in all operations. Well, what happened, is that she passed away. Very sad. And there I was...the new kid on the block...and I was the Turtle Race judge! The rest is history. 

Turtle race champion

This week’s Grand Champion was 11 year old Owen Martin from Omaha, NE.

   Over the years, there have been a number of folks in charge of the races. Actually, John and Sandy Weins built them out to the multi faceted show it is now. During the time that Judy Blundell was running the show, it became apparent that we needed to split out the responsibilities. We were asking too much of any one person to put it all together. We had been fortunate to have Tenlee Lund take on a major role... after John and Sandy retired... and that meant we got Tom, too! What a couple! So, for some years we were spoiled. They did it all!

Slow Poke champion

This week’s Grand Slowpoke Winner was 7 year old Noah McCormack (left) with his 5 year old sister, Audrey, of Roseau, MN.

   Then, they moved and we tried unsuccessfully to find someone to take the races over. Too many moving parts for 1 person. So, Judy decided to divide up the responsibilities. That’s how I got my job!  And thus it continues... as a well-oiled machine, with many folks participating, currently lead by Jane Schlagle.

Resort race winner...

5 year old Virran Jelsma from Ankeny, IA walked away with the big W this week representing Little Boy Resort. Photos submitted.

   So, there you have it. I was absent from the races yesterday and they went off swimmingly well! Imagine that! Of course they went off well... with all the dedicated volunteers we have. So, I missed the races... but they didn’t miss me. But, next week I’ll be back in the saddle. See you at the races. Number 7. 

---