Local siblings Dylan and Kayden Sabourin are making waves in the world of snowcross racing, with impressive performances in the Michigan Snowcross series this past winter.
Dylan, 11, dominated her classes, securing over 50 first place wins and achieving year-end awards in two categories: the Transition Girls, ages eight to 12, and Junior Girls, ages nine to 13.
Her outstanding season earned her the Female Rider of the Year award.
“She won pretty much every race,” said their mother, Ashlee Boychuk.
“This year, I think she came in second maybe twice. So she had over 50 first place wins this year alone.”
Her nine-year-old brother Kayden also had a strong showing, finishing fourth in year-end awards for both the Transition Boys, ages eight to 10, and Stock 200, ages nine to 12.
“This was his first year on the big transition snow machine, which is a 600,” Boychuk said.
The siblings’ journey into snowcross began at an early age. Dylan started at four, following in the footsteps of her father, who used to race the I-500.
Kayden began riding at two and entered his first race at four.
“They’ve been racing since they could walk,” Boychuk said.
Based in Echo Bay, the family has created a training ground with the help of generous neighbours who allow them to build jumps in their fields.
The children practice as much as possible, especially on weekends.
“School days are a little bit harder, especially in the winter when it’s so dark out, but they usually ride every weekend for at least a couple hours per day,” Boychuk said.
“As much as they can and as much as they want to.”
The sport comes with its challenges, including mechanical issues and the need for consistent snow conditions. Last year, the siblings missed their first two races because of the lack of now.
Despite these obstacles, the Sabourin siblings have their sights set on even bigger goals.
Dylan aims to compete in national races next year, while Kayden is working on mastering more advanced techniques.
The family’s success is strengthened by community support and sponsorships.
Local businesses including North Shore Sports and Auto, Khaos Graphix, Wright Time Contracting, Batman Advertising, Propane Plus, Cavaliere Welding and Fabrication, and Northern Valley PEMF Therapy sponsor the siblings.
To support and follow the Sabourin siblings' journey find them on Facebook at Sabourin Racing.