BUCHANAN — Snowmobile racing is not just for cold and snowy weather — at least not if the racers are competing at Nimby Pond’s annual Snowmobile Watercross Racing.

The annual event, which draws hundreds to watch snowmobiles skim across the surface of a 600-foot pond at dizzying speeds will take place noon Saturday, July 14 and Saturday, Aug. 4, at Nimby Pond, 11470 Hills Road in Buchanan.

Owner of Nimby Pond Mark Schutze will host the event again this year. While watching snow mobiles drag race is the main focus, there will also be a bounce house for children. The entry cost for the event is $10. Children 10 and under are free. To race, competitors pay $25 or $30, depending upon which race class they are in. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Humane Society-Southwestern Michigan Yeager Family Pet Shelter.

“Last year was probably our biggest snowmobile draw. I think we had like 50 or 60,” Schutze said. “It was a hoot. It was a good time.”

Different classes of snow mobile will compete, stock — a regular snowmobile; mod — a snowmobile with a modified engine and trail snowmobiles. For those wondering how the race works, Schutze said two competitors at a time square off, with the aim to reach the finish line first. The snowmobiles start a distance 10 feet from the edge of the water. Sometimes there is not enough speed to keep the snowmobile going and the machine will sink and have to be retrieved, but Schutze is prepared for this.

“They either make it or they don’t,” Schutze said. “A lot of them make it. The most sinkers we have had is 18 to 20 in one race. They just could not catch a break or did something wrong.”

Schutze did not exactly dream up the concept for the daredevil-style racing. He was inspired by the same type of event that used to take place in Three Oaks, but has since ceased. In Schutze’s opinion racing in the summer can be ideal for snowmobile racing.

“In the winter you freeze your toes off,” Schutze said.

Schutze invited people to see how the race works for themselves.

“Usually everybody has a really good time,” Schutze said. “We are very family friendly. Bring your cooler, bring your canopy, bring your favorite lawn chair and come out and relax and enjoy the day.”