Making muddy memories with family and friends

Every kid enjoys playing in the mud. For some of us, the joyful sensation of splashing through mucky puddles never gets old. That’s why Bill Ford started up Canadian Championship Mud Racing (CCMR) last year.

“I enjoy being outdoors with family and friends playing in the mud,” said Ford, president of the CCMR and owner of KO Exteriors Acrylic & Stucco near Edmonton, Alberta.

Ford’s fascination with mud racing began while watching Youtube videos of side-by-sides plow through sludge. From there, he purchased his first Maverick 1000 and has been a Can-Am supporter ever since.

Ford started racing over four years ago and had to travel a long way to attend races. Harnessing the entrepreneurial spirit, he decided to change the racing landscape within the Great White North. “Canada did not have a lot of mud racing so my wife and I started a racing series,” Ford said.

Thus began the newly formed CCMR, which had an excellent first year in 2017. “Some events had up to 70 racers,” said Ford. “We had great battles in the pits filled with nonstop action. Sponsors were there as well and were happy to be a part of the first racing series in Canada. It's great watching the sport grow in Canada from youth to pros.”

2017 was a rewarding year for Ford as he finished first and second overall in points for the year in multiple classes. His wife, April, and children Damon and Brook also finished the season with hardware of their own.

When it’s all said and done, it’s not the mud racing that’s important, it’s covering your loved ones in mud that truly matters. “We’re bringing families together to have fun,” Ford said. “Kids are having a blast meeting other kids and teaching them sportsmanship. We have family memories travelling all over North America. The best part is the whole family can compete. You can't beat that.”