NORWAY — The longtime Norway Trackers Snowmobile Club’s Snowfest has been canceled this year.

Club member Ken Gammon said the poor economy played a large role in the decision not to continue the event, which attracted hundreds of snowmobilers and viewers to the area.

He said the cancellation does not mean it will not be revived another year. The club owns the lights and timing machines that have been used in the event each year and intend to use them again, he said.

Snowfest is traditionally held at the end of January on Lake Pennesseewassee and includes radar runs, drag racing, an antique snowmobile show and a chowder fest. Proceeds go to the club’s maintenance of the Norway snowmobile trail system.

“The boys go out and plow during the week and work all day Friday setting up and then work all day Saturday and Sunday and we ended up with $500 last year,” Gammon said.

Although there have been many profitable years, Gammon said the past few years have been difficult, not only because of the sluggish economy but also the weather that prevented people from riding to the event.

Hundreds of spectators and participants attend the two-day event each year, many ride their snowmobiles from 50 to 60 miles away.

“People love a destination,” Gammon said.

The chowder fest, which is held in the Little Red Schoolhouse at the lake, will be held in March at the Masonic Hall in Norway. More information about that event, which is open to the public, will be coming soon, Gammon said.

ldixon@sunjournal.com