Campbell River spills and thrills
Round three of the CMRC Vancouver Island spring series was a show not to be missed
Paul Wilkinson (66), Matt Kerrigan (140), David Alsop (338) and Matt Muenzler (424) race to the finish. — Ed Masters photo
What a difference a week makes. The weather last week for the start of motocross racing was snow, hail and wind along with the odd glimpse of sun. In the week for round 3 of the CMRC Vancouver Island Spring Series we got cold nights and beautiful sunshine. Round 3 was held in Campbell River on April 11 with lots of thrills and a few spills. The weekend started out with a practice day on Saturday and all-out full throttle racing on Sunday. The track was in perfect condition thanks to all the work that was done to it over the winter lay off from Motocross racing. Ken Fear of Fearless Trucking put in lots of hard work this past winter changing some areas and adding a few things to the track. He had plenty of help from his son Brendon, who also spent countless hours at the track. One of the new things added this winter was a concrete start. Upland Ready Mix was a major contributor in making this happen. Lou Frey of Campbell River won herself a new vacuum cleaner thanks to Miracleway Vacuums Systems of Campbell River for putting this up. Ryder Roth of Campbell River roared out to an early lead in the 4-6 class of the 50cc. He was up a game rider in Cameron Bradley of Salt Spring Island. His lead was short lived as Bradley had his sights set on taking home first place overall. That is what he did, as he was riding hard all weekend. Roth also rode well as well this weekend and took home second place over all. Third place overall for the weekend went home to Nanaimo with Cameron Whitcomb. h3. The battle continues Bradley’s older brother Harrison was in a battle this weekend in the 65cc class. He was giving it all he could out there on the track. He was up against Joe Nikirk of Shawnigan Lake. Neither was giving an inch of track to the other as they were locked in a battle to finish right from the drop of the start gate. Both had to be right on the top of their game as Victoria rider Steven Galey was waiting for an opening. When the day was over it was Nikirk that took first overall while Bradley went home in second place. Third went to Galey. Paige Hansen of Port Alberni was racing this weekend. What a race she had with Camille Baker of Nanaimo and Port Alberni rider Amy Aspell. Hansen roared from the start line and through the hole shot first. She took the checkered flag first but it was not an easy win for her. In the afternoon, Hansen was once again leading the moto but she left just a little opening and Baker took full advantage of it. Once in the lead Baker rode a very smart moto and took the win. With Hansen taking first in the morning and second in the afternoon it was enough points overall to take first home for the day. With a third and a first for the day Baker took home second overall. Second in the morning and third in the afternoon was good enough for third place for Aspell. Port Hardy rider Tanner Smithson made the most of his trip to Campbell River for round three. He was up against two local riders this weekend in the MX1 Junior class. Trevor Devlin and Bryson Lasota were on hand to try and keep the top place on the podium right here in Campbell River. That did not happen as Smithson took that position from and returned home with first overall. Devlin finished the day with second place overall while Lasota placed third. When you got close to a full gate of motocross riders all wanting to be first, you are in for a tight race when it is the MX2 Junior class. There were riders from all points of the Island wanting that first place finish. There was lots of block passing and tight inside turns just to try and get a small advantage. When it was all over for the day, the home tack advantage paid off for Black Creek rider Blain Morrow who first overall for the day. Courtenay Rider William Blackburn also put his home track advantage to good use as he finished the day in second place overall. Austin Ludvigson came up from Nanaimo for the day of racing and he returned with third. h3. Riding hard Morrow and Blackburn were out in the GP Junior class as well this weekend. Each trying to take top place back home with them. That would not happen as Jamie Nagy of Qualicum Beach had his sights set on the place. He rode two smart motos to take first place home with him. That left Blackburn and Morrow to battle it out for second. When the checkered flag came out it was Morrow finishing the day just ahead of Blackburn for second overall. Blackburn finished the day in third place. Former Island pro rider Darcy Lalonde of Victoria made his return to the track after several years away from the sport. He picked up his winning ways from years past. He rode two smooth motos to take home first in the Vet Master class. Second went to Dave Cottle also of Victoria while third went to Nanaimo Rider Bryn Whitcomb. Lalonde also brought his son Ryan along with him up Island. Looks as if he may follow in his dad’s footsteps. He was riding in the Supermini class against some really good riders. Damon Riesach of Nanaimo had to keep on the throttle to stay ahead of Lalonde. It was all he could do to stay ahead as Lalonde wanted to take top place like his dad, but that was not to be and he had to take second place to Riesach. Third place for the day went to Victoria rider Bryce Currie. h3. Experience speaks volumes The Plus 40 class can make it around the track almost as fast as the younger riders. Paul Hansen of Port Alberni was riding well this weekend out there on his new Suzuki. He broke the bike in the day before at the practice day. Not much seat time on the new bike before the big race. Hansen had the lead for a few laps but Kari Mielty was waiting for a small opening to duck in to for the pass. It came on the upper section of the track and Mielty to the opening and cruised to the finish line first. He took the overall win for the day while Hansen took home second place. Maurice Vanderbasch of Victoria took home third place. Cory cardinal of Crofton rode hard this weekend. He was riding in the MX2 Intermediate class with some great riders. Cardinal finished the day with a first place win over Nanaimo rider Shawn Miller. Third place went home to Victoria rider Daniel Vanderbasch. Colton McLean of Courtenay had an early lead in the Youth class but was forced to leave the track with some engine trouble. That left Nanoose Bay rider Nick Syrotuck and Sannichton rider Ross Sherman to battle it out for first. These two were putting down some fast laps, flying and diving down in an effort to gain few seconds on each other as well as to hold off Cardinal who was closing in fast on them. In the end, Syrotuck took home first, while Sherman took home second. Cardinal had to settle for third place this weekend. Syrotuck and Sherman were out there in the pro class along with McLean. Once again Mclean was forced to leave the track with bike problems. He did return for the afternoon moto with the problem solved as he took first place in the moto. Syrotuck took first overall while Sherman finished the day in second overall. McLean finished the day with third place.
Masters’ Motocross Corner key contacts
Hit the road, Jack
Over 15 years ago, Jack Industries designed and manufactured the Seat Jack. Today, we create 25 different passenger seat models to fit all Arctic Cat, Polaris, Ski-Doo and Yamaha snowmobile sport models, from 1992 and up. They’re easy to install, durable, comfortable and safe.
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Your Honda headquarters
At B&F Sales & Service Ltd., located in Grand Forks, B.C., we specialize in superior customer service. Our large supply of Honda products includes ATVs, motorcycles, lawn and garden wares, generators, snowblowers, walk-behind mowers and water pumps.
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Let our friendly sales staff and competitive service be the reasons why you choose B&F Sales & Service Ltd. for all your recreation needs.
Saskatchewan
Give your seat new life with SaddleSkins
Snowmobiles have special cover requirements. Extra cold weather can cause ordinary vinyl to split and crack. Travelcade SaddleSkins for sleds are made of a heavy-duty cold weather material that is impervious to cold down to more than minus 40 degrees. All features of the original seat are retained rear compartment, lights, side buffers all duplicated in our replacement covers.
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WARN XT and RT Winch Series: the best winches in the world are now even better.
The complete line of WARN Powersports winches lets you ride with confidence knowing that when you need to pull yourself out of the muck or move a heavy load, you'll be up to the task time and time again. Both the XT Extreme Terrain and RT Rugged Terrain winches are designed specifically for powersports vehicles. Standard features includes weather-resistant sealed construction; rugged and reliable three-stage planetary geartrains; patented disc brakes for enhanced control; efficient electrical systems for less battery drain; easy-to-use clutch dials; and legendary WARN quality. You can be assured these winches are the best on the market.
Both the SaddleSkins and WARN Powersports winches are available at Recreation Supply Co. Ltd. in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
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Mighty Peace River, AB
Come join us on the wide open roads
The Land of the Mighty Peace stretches across northwestern Alberta, from the British Columbia border along the Northwest Territories border, deep into Wood Buffalo National Park. The Peace River has created a magnificent theatre of nature, inspiring scenery, rolling hills, and stunning river banks.
Riding through this magnificent territory is an experience you will never forget. Find yourself surrounded by breathtaking boreal forests and stop along the way to visit one of the many fine attractions in the area. The Mighty Peace Country offers something for all; urban exploration and nightlife, a vast and relaxing nature, history, fishing, camping and adventure. The Mighty Peace Tourism Association is now offering a waterproof circle tour map featuring plenty of roadside attractions and icons, as well as discounted accommodations just for our rider friends. 
Manitoba, BC
The fun starts here, at Enns Brothers Powersports
When a person in Manitoba wants to have fun and enjoy the pleasures that power sports and vehicles have to offer, they come to Enns Brothers Powersports
Located in three locations (Winnipeg East, West and Portage La Prairie), Enns Brothers will be Manitoba's first choice for motorized products, accessories and servicing. Our customers and suppliers trust us for honesty, knowledge, fairness and professionalism. Our dynamic team can help you with all your powersport needs in a friendly and efficient manner, and you will feel welcome and supported in every one of our locations.
Tumbler Ridge, BC
Discover the wonder and beauty of Tumbler Ridge
Tumbler Ridge is unique, as it has all the amenities of a larger town, while retaining its small town culture. With its beautiful geographic location and rich history, this is truly the perfect location. Tumbler Ridge has plenty of activities and events occurring regularly to help keep you involved in the community. If you’re looking for other ways to stay active, our local terrain will be waiting for you to bring out your ATV or off-road bike, and witness the exquisite scenery of Tumbler Ridge.
Grande Prairie, AB
We are your four-season destination!
Stanford Hotels & Resorts are the ideal accommodations for riders! Take advantage of our $89.00* rider rate which includes a complimentary bike wash. The Grande Prairie location offers ground floor rooms, meaning you are never far from your pride and joy. As well, the inner courtyard parking lot gives you peace of mind during your stay. Choose Stanford Hotel Grande Prairie if you are looking for that home away from home feel and great service! We are your four-season destination, so check out our winter rates for sledders.
*Taxes and applicable fees will be added to this rate
Get in on the action
If you consider yourself a powersports enthusiast and are interested in breaking into the industry, the Outdoor Power Equipment Technician Program or Motorcycle Mechanic, Pre-Employment Program is right for you. Offered at GPRC Fairview College Campus, these programs provide students with the skills that are in demand by North America’s recreational powersports industry. Students obtain the current knowledge of emerging technologies, combined with relevant, hands-on experience—and that’s exactly what employers are seeking.
Furthermore, students in either program are eligible to write the Alberta Apprenticeship exams—their first step towards obtaining their Journeyman status in the trade. For more information about the career opportunities – with job openings available across the country following graduation, call Les Ashton or Brad Chorney at 1-888-999-7882.
East Central. SK
The destination for every level of rider
You will find a surprise around every corner in Saskatchewan’s East Central region. The stunning transformation of the landscape from prairie to boreal forest showcases nature in its most grand form. Vast numbers of birds migrate through the area, making this an incredible destination for bird lovers. Unique communities are part of the mix, including four vibrant cities and a dynamic Ukrainian culture. Add a natural healing spa and a host of exciting events, not to mention a landscape that is truly an off-road enthusiast's dream. It is no wonder that our area won nine Rider’s Choice Awards for our spectacular ATVing terrain.
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Big River, SK
Convenient, comfortable and affordable
Ride from your door and enjoy an overabundance of ATV trails.
The Timberland Motel is located in a woodland setting with more than 20 lakes within 12 miles of our front door, but in Big River you can fish right where the town dock extends into Cowan Lake.
We are located on the Trans-Canadian Snowmobile Trail, so you can snowmobile right up to the door of your comfortable room. The Timberland Motel features a range of amenities, such as air conditioning, wireless high-speed Internet, an outdoor hot tub and much more.
The motel itself is also for sale, so rent a room now and see the incredible potential in this modern, clean facility.
The small shop with big service
Season's Edge Recreation has been serving Nipawin and surrounding area for more than 12 years, and we are dedicated to our customers' needs. Like our customers, we are also snowmobile and ATV enthusiasts.
Here at Season's Edge we ride what we sell so we are able to understand and respond to your needs. We know how important it is for you to have a great experience every time you ride.
On our days off, we look forward to jumping on our toys and hitting the trails or venturing out into the back country, so don't be suprised if you meet up with us next time you're out for a ride.
Cranbrook, BC
There is always something to do in Cranbrook
The City of Cranbrook is nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, and offers visitors an array of fun activities. For winter guests, this warm and welcoming community is conveniently close to a full range of sledding locations. With literally hundreds of excellent sledding trails nearby, snowmobilers can experience everything from beginner to extreme mountain riding in the area. Cranbrook is also known as the sunniest city in B.C., so expect to find brilliant blue skies and sunshine to top off the mountain vistas you will enjoy while out on the trail.
Kootenay Rockies
Warm up after your sledding adventure
Prestige Hotels & Resorts are elegant, full-service hotels and resorts, located in the Okanagan and Kootenay Rockies—destinations known for some of the most renowned snowmobiling terrain. The Prestige offers deluxe rooms and amenities, executive and designer suites. All guest rooms feature quality comforts such as voicemail, data ports, high-speed Internet access and pay-per-view movies. Facilities also include a pool, hot tub, athletic club, restaurant and lounge—so there are several relaxing options to choose from upon your arrival. We are proudly 100% smoke-free. Inquire about our getaway and recreation packages, and make us your first choice in accommodation when you plan your next sledding excursion.
Cranbrook, BC
A quality motel in the heart of the Kootenay Mountains
Surrounded by the pristine Kootenay Mountains, the Travellers Motel features newly remodeled suites that will make your stay a quality one. We are conveniently situated just 10 minutes from the airport, and offer special rates for seniors and corporate guests. Also for your convenience, we have complimentary parking, a laundry facility, direct dial phones, smoking rooms, wireless internet and a continental breakfast. Kick back and enjoy our barbecue area, or one of our two new bubble tubs. Bring your four-legged travelling companion, because our motel is pet-friendly.
Cranbrook, BC
We go to great heights for you!
At the Nomad Motel, we offer several amenities to make our guests feel comfortable. With a 46-inch heated outdoor pool, large family suites and a children's playground, our facility is ready to welcome you and your family. We also offer corporate, group and senior rates, free high speed internet, and fax and photocopy services to suit your business needs. Take advantage of our guest laundromat, free VCR and movie usage, continental breakfast and cable TV with movie channels. Pet-friendly rooms are available as well. All of our rooms are air conditioned and have refrigerators and other basic necessities to make your stay fun and relaxing.