Jim Herzig was one of the most respected and beloved riders in snowmobile racing. During his incredible 24-year career, he has accumulated several victories. First, four World Champion titles, as well as two titles as driver of the year. Herzig’s career, as well as his life, came to an abrupt end after a tragic racing accident in Valcourt on February 22, 1998. His number, 45, was retired.

February 22, 1998

It was while coming off curve number two in the “stock 500cc” final that JimHerzig hit the wall of hay bales. He was then thrown from his snowmobile to find himself on the icy trail. His pursuer, Mike Lago of New Hampshire, couldn’t avoid him. Stuck under the latter’s sled, after being struck, Jim Herzig was dragged for several tens of meters. This accident came on top of the one that had injured eight the previous weekend at the Grand Prix de Shawinigan-Sud.

A tribute to this champion

The organization of the Grand Prix de Valcourt paid tribute to the pilot Jim Herzig at a ceremony in 1999. Recalling the 25 seasons of competition of the Arctic Cat pilot, a large number 45 was hoisted above the boxes located between turns one and two. Herzig’s wife and two daughters attended the ceremony. During this tribute, the company Arctic Cat donated an amount to the Jim Herzig Foundation, created to allow his daughters to study. Also, runner Chad Ramesh showed great generosity by donating his $ 2000 scholarship to the Jim Herzig Foundation. Ramesh was a great friend of Jim Herzig.

sources : https://numerique.banq.qc.ca/patrimoine/details/52327/3755844?docsearchtext=Jim%20Herzig%201998https://numerique.banq.qc.ca/patrimoine/details/52327/3755844?docsearchtext=jim%20herzig%201998https://numerique.banq.qc.ca/patrimoine/details/52327/3755875?docsearchtext=hommage%20%C3%A0%20Jim%20Herzig