Local groups hosting snowmachine maintenance clinic

The emPOWDERed Maintenance Clinic hosted by Hatcher Pass Polaris in Wasilla will cover snowmachine care and safety basics through a community of like-minded riders.

The clinic will be presented by Artwork by Sierra Winter, the Uptrack Alliance, and Alaska Safe Riders and will occur on November 12 from 6-8 p.m.

By joining together to bring education and support to an ever-growing community of riders of all ages and backgrounds, especially women, Sierra Winter explained that this series of clinics is designed to build a more interconnected, educated and safe riding experience.

“The shred world can be intimidating,” Winter said. “I remember when I first started out on my own, away from cabin/trail riding for survival — I didn’t know much, and it was scary to ask questions or risk looking silly in a sport that’s mostly male-dominated. It took a lot of courage and practice to get over that fear and just ask for help. That’s why events like this are so important. We’re creating a space and a culture where it’s okay not to know — yet.”

The event will include creating and preparing pre-season and pre-ride checklists, instruction on snowmachine maintenance, safe riding practices and more.

The clinic will be hosted by father-daughter duo and Irondog Team #39 Shane Barber and Shana Lapham. The two will be teaching hands-on mechanics based on knowledge and experience from the trail.

Attendees are encouraged to sign up for an Alaska Safe Riders membership. Membership includes access to members-only events, giveaways, education, and safety resources. Door prizes donated from a variety of sponsors will also be available.

Another clinic will be held on November 14 at Delta Powersports in Fairbanks. emPOWDERed will be a guest at a maintenance clinic at Peninsula Powersports in Soldotna on December 4.

The women-led emPOWDERed initiative was started to build inclusivity and share information throughout the riding community. Current emPOWDERed rides are ladies-only to promote a safe-space for female riders. These maintenance clinics are open to everyone.

“This event represents everything we stand for—community, confidence, and connection through shared passion and safety,” Winter said.