Fun Run ready to go on January 29

The fourth annual Fun Run snowmobile event is set to go for Jan. 29 in Ely, Babbitt and Tower. The event is open to all and benefits snowmobile trails in and around the three communities. Last year over 700 people participated, raising $15,000 for the trail system. “There will be lots of prizes again,” said event organizer Jim Zupancich. “We gave away over 200 prizes last year and I expect we’ll have that many again this year.” While snowmobilers benefit from the trail improvements made from the event proceeds, many who participate each year are not riders. “We’ve been saying each year that you can easily participate in this event even if you don’t own a snowmobile so how much snow we have doesn’t matter,” said Zupancich. “You can go by car or truck between Ely, Babbitt and Tower and have a great time.” Local celebrity and NFL mascot Joe “Ragnar” Juranitch will bring some of his friends from the Minnesota Vikings to Babbitt, Ely and Tower to raise money for snowmobile trails. Last year Minnesota Vikings legends Joey Browner and Jim Marshall were on hand for the Fun Run. One the event’s attractions is the prize list that includes a top prize of $1,000 and many great door prizes.On the day of the event, participants go to check in points in Ely (Grand Ely Lodge), Tower (Bench-warmers) and Babbitt (Tank’s Bar) to pick up bonus tickets and increase their chances of winning prizes. People can register for $15 and drop off forms at Blomberg’s, Zup’s Stores or at the Ely Echo. Registration forms are printed in the North Country Saver. “It’s a great deal because it’s a $15 donation to the snowmobile trails in Ely, Babbitt and Tower and you get a chance to win some great prizes,” said Zupancich. “We’re still accepting prizes and business owners can contact me, Norma Ramsey in Tower or Nick Wognum in Ely to make a donation,” said Zupancich. Juranitch was the master of ceremonies at the wrap-up party last year and this time he’ll take the stage at the Grand Ely Lodge.“We’ll miss the Babbitt Junction but we are very excited to be able to have the wrap-up party at the Grand Ely Lodge. We know Denise and her crew we’ll do a great job and the Grand Ely Lodge is such a beautiful facility,” said Zupancich.Fortune Bay Resort and Casino will also help sponsor the event. In addition to a two-night stay in a suite, some lucky winner will get a free golf package on the new Wilderness Golf Course at Fortune Bay.