Becker resident Willie Ewing recently smashed the previous world record for the most miles ridden on a snowmobile in 24 hours.

At Lake of the Woods, Baudette, just shy of the Canada border, (hosted by Sportsman’s Lodge, whom the Ewings noted were very accommodating) Ewing maintained an average speed of 88.59 mph for 24 hours straight, with a top speed of 116. 

The previous record for a single rider in 24 hours was 1,907 miles. But, Ewing wanted to leave no question of his skill, and he also decimated the record for a team of riders, 2,084 miles. Ewing racked up 2,125.04 miles in his 24 hour time period.

Ewing was not the only one who broke records that day, as his sled, a 2022 Arctic Cat ThunderCat (dubbed ThunderOne), also broke the record for a sled to go the most distance in 24 hours. Ewing did not switch out his vehicle and had no mechanical failures at all during his ride, even though he had mechanics, backup machine, and even an Arctic Cat engineer on hand in case they were needed. During the day, Ewing burned through 278 gallons of premium gasoline. The sled will now be retired, although Ewing said he will bring it around to shows in the future and possibly to parade-type situations to show it off. 

When asked if he got tired, Ewing stated that he never did, at least not until after his ride. The track was rough enough that he needed to remain focused the entire time.

Otherwise, Ewing stated, the weather was absolutely perfect. Two hours before the ride, it was snowing, and after the ride the temperatures dropped to a point where it would have been too cold. But for Ewing’s 24 hours, the weather couldn’t have been more perfect.

“We really felt like God made the conditions perfect for us,” said Ewing’s wife, Rebecca Ewing.

The Ewings planned this stunt as a means of raising money for Living Word Bible Camp. The money will go towards scholarships for students who would otherwise be unable to attend. 

The Ewings’ goal was to raise $50,000 in donations, a lofty goal. They are close, right around $45,000. All of Ewing’s equipment for the ride was donated and will be sold now that the ride’s over to maximize the donation to the camp. The Ewings plan to accept donations at least through the end of the year, so there is plenty of time for anyone wishing to help them meet their goal. Donations can be made at www.1Day4Kids.com. Footage of the ride and photos are also available at this website.