Manitoba is serious about its ATVing. With hundreds of riding areas, plenty of trails and a variety of terrain, it is no wonder riders in this province are so passionate about the sport.
“Riding in Manitoba is awesome,” said Kevin Druet, an ATVer from Niverville, Manitoba. “There are forested trails, sandy trails, floating bog swamp rides, deep-water rides and gravel pit hillclimbs.”
Druet, who is the co-owner of an online community for Manitoba ATVers called ATV Pathfinders, feels Manitoba is Canada’s most popular province for ATVing.
“Everyone knows someone who has an ATV,” Druet said.
Among Druet’s favourite places to ride in Manitoba are Sandilands Provincial Park, Spruce Woods Provincial Forest and around the village of Woodridge. Manitoba even offers some desert-type riding. Southport, a rural community near Portage La Prairie, has a huge area with sand dunes that provide ATVers with hours of enjoyment.
“It’s easy to spend a day playing in the same 10 square miles and never get bored,” said Druet.
It’s derby time
With so much to offer ATVers, it’s not surprising that Manitoba is home to scores of ATV derbies—one of the largest being the St. Jean ATV Derby taking place September 21 to 23, 2007. The event, held in the community of St. Jean Baptiste, attracts ATVers from all over Manitoba as well as the U.S.
“The first year we had about 75 ATVs show up,” said Druet, “and last year we had approximately 600.”
The derby has been so successful that organizers have added another day, making it a three-day event.
“This year we are going to have an ATV obstacle course the following day of the derby,” said Druet.
At the derby there will be five checkpoints at which riders draw cards to get the best hand. Prizes are $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place and $500 for third place. According to Druet, anyone can ride in the derby and it’s not limited to ATVs—motorcycles are welcome too.
“It’s good for the whole family,” he said. “The trail is designed for young and old.”
The fun doesn’t stop there, however. There are ATV pulls, silent auction prizes, beer gardens, a live band and plenty of mud and water to play in. A campground is situated at the starting area, with free firewood, electrical services and shower facilities available. Druet expects the 2007 St. Jean ATV Derby to be bigger and better than ever.
“This is a good way to meet people and enjoy the great outdoors,” said Druet. “It’s a real sight to see.”
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