ENGINE
Victor Wind Meinel: Greenland’s Snowmobile Prodigy
Victor Wind Meinel, at 23, has become a standout in the world of snowmobiling. It all started with a simple joy: riding alongside his father in the untouched snow.
Over the years, he has honed his skills and now ranks among the top freeriders in Greenland, a status validated by his impressive second-place finish at the Greenland Hill Climb Championship last month.
“Next year, I’m aiming for the top spot,” he quips, a grin spreading across his face.
His Ride of Choice: Arctic Cat
Victor, who hails from Nuuk, has a background in mechanics and currently works at Deres Auto. While he enjoys jet skiing during the summer, it’s the winter months—and the thrill of navigating the mountains—that he truly yearns for.
“I’ve experienced snowmobiles from various brands—Ski-Doo, Lynx, and Arctic Cat—but I’ve come to favor Arctic Cat. It’s a robust and speedy machine, with easy access to spare parts right here in Greenland. I get my parts quickly from Arctic Star in Sisimiut, and their service is outstanding,” he explains, proudly detailing his latest ride, a 2025 Arctic Cat Catalyst 858 turbo.
A New Adventure Unfolds
This season, Victor has upgraded to a 2026 Arctic Cat Catalyst 858 HCR, eagerly awaiting its debut in the mountains.
“I began snowmobiling around the age of 13. What I cherish most is the sense of freedom it provides, along with the camaraderie among fellow riders. Of course, the adrenaline rush is hard to resist,” he shares, with a notable sparkle in his eyes. Remarkably, Victor is one of the few in Greenland who can execute a backflip on his snowmobile, tackling daring drops of up to 22 meters from the cliffs.
“I love the thrill and don’t dwell on the dangers,” he admits, though not without a responsible nod to safety. “I always wear a helmet, safety vest, knee pads, and sturdy boots, and carry an avalanche backpack, beeper, shovel, first aid kit—the works. We ride in groups and are vigilant about the weather, always conscious of avalanche risks, particularly after heavy snowfall.”
Camaraderie and Adventure
The bond among snowmobile enthusiasts in Greenland runs deep. These riders spend countless hours collaborating to construct courses, crafting jumps with nothing more than shovels and the help of a grooming machine.
“Often, we camp out in the mountains, grilling and enjoying each other’s company. Snowmobiling is an integral part of who I am, and I plan to continue this passion for many years to come,” Victor Wind Meinel reflects with the sort of enthusiasm that can only come from someone who truly lives for the ride.