Snowplow Blizzard Bracket - Battle of the Blades

Three years ago, a new component was added to the contest with the addition of the SDDOT Blizzard Bracket! The Blizzard Bracket provides additional opportunities to engage with the public and promote winter safety messaging. Over 70,000 votes were cast during the first Blizzard Bracket competition alone.

And, in a new Blizzard Bracket Twist – it’s time for the Dakota Challenge! The SDDOT and North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) will be facing off for the official crown of Battle of the Blades Champion. See the bracket below for matchups as the top two named plows from each state meet in the championship to battle it out!

Thaw Patrol - 2025 Battle of the Blades Named Snowplow Blizzard Bracket Winner!

Submitted by: Jamie Keiser and Winner Elementary 1st Grade Class

Wednesday, April 23, 2025:

SDDOT hosted a celebration at Winner Elementary for their named plow "Thaw Patrol" which won the SDDOT vs. NDDOT Dakota Battle of the Blades earlier this month. Governor Larry Rhoden was able to join the students to celebrate.

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Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025:

Thaw Patrol was named by Winner Elementary’s first grade class. It was great to see the community of Winner and all South Dakotan's rally around Thaw Patrol. Thank you to everyone who participated in this great contest!

"Thaw Patrol" was the name submitted by Winner Elementary's First Grade class. "Thaw Patrol" stopped by the Winner Elementary School this week to visit a huge crowd of students!

All 409 students at Winner Elementary were able to meet "Thaw Patrol" and last year's winning truck, "Clearapathera." The students learned about the innovative features found on a snowplow and the dedicated work that goes into winter maintenance.

Special thanks to Winner Elementary Principal Brian Naasz for setting up a pizza party for the entire school to celebrate this event and help engage everyone involved in the winter maintenance discussion.