Nine northern U.S. colleges are competing in Eagle River’s inaugural Advance Snowmobile event this week. The challenge aims to improve snowmobiles for better fuel efficiency, reduced noise, and other environmental benefits. Co-organizer Peter Jensen notes the goal is to address landowner concerns over noise and emissions, supporting both the sport and the Northwoods economy. The competition features cold starts and endurance runs, and similar past events have driven current snowmobile advancements. The competition ends Thursday.