Near-record warmth forces postponement of Shamrock Showdown at Wheeler Spring MX

Event moved up to Jan. 2027, will be first of three races at Maine facility

BOWDOIN, Maine (March 10, 2026) — Despite the best efforts of facility owners and tons of snow in place on which to compete, officials at X Racing and Wheeler Spring MX have had to postpone their Shamrock Showdown originally slated for Mar. 13-15 due to a spell of near-record warm temperatures.

Temperatures shot upwards in Central Maine the past few days, with highs expected to reach near 70 degrees on Tuesday. This comes after a cold, snowy winter in Maine that brought great trails to much of the state. Yet now, with rapid melting, a muddy site will prevent this race from happening in 2026.

“Alex Lapierre and his staff at Wheeler Spring had done an excellent job of gathering snow for our races,” X Racing president Joe Duncan said. “They had received tons of natural snow, and made ample amounts to supplement that base. They did everything right, they just couldn't prevent this rapid melt.

“So while this postponement does hurt, we're pleased to say that we're looking at a long-term deal in Bowdoin. We plan to run three events at Wheeler Spring MX in 2027, with the first one in January. They have a great facility and will serve as ideal hosts for our Snowcross and Sunday Funday races.”

While racers across northern New England will be saddened by this news, there will still be sanctioned sled racing in the East this year. X Racing is about to announce a weekend of racing in mid-April that will include four types of competition. Details on that event and its location will be released later today.

X Racing began working towards it goal of reviving the 'Glory Days' of snowmobile racing here in New England in 2025. The concept of affordable, fun-based racing centered around common sleds was introduced, and it was well received. Sunday Funday programs offer big fun for a minimal investment.