In its years of existence, the run has made contributions to many worthy causes—including a defibrillator for first responders, playground equipment for the Neil Currie Park and money towards a new fire truck for the Pierceland Fire Department. 

This year was Leslie Dochuk’s first time organizing the event. Her emotions were a combination of butterflies and excitement as she watched the event unfold. Upon meeting Leslie and her crew, my husband, son and I instantly felt welcome. She is such a warm and wonderful fireball of a woman. The entire rally committee embraced all newcomers to their event—held near the town of Pierceland, Saskatchewan, on May 11, 2013.

Over 250 riders participated this year. The ATV rally consisted of a 58-kilometre trail system that offered either a dry, family-friendly route or a wet, more adventurous route, giving everyone an opportunity to enjoy the day. We started off on the dry route, which still had its fair share of adventurous wet spots, but after lunch we decided to bring it on and got a tad bit muddy. OK, a lot muddy. It was simply awesome—an incredible adventure full of laughter, mud and great people.

This event saw a unique partnership between committee organizers and the Thunderchild Nation, as this year’s course ran through the beautiful land of the Thunderchild people. It was no easy task. Clem Weeseekase and Dochuk had numerous talks and meetings to ensure the integrity of the land was maintained.  Ultimately, Weeseekase explained to me, the elders of the band broke it down into basic logic. Contributing to this very worthy event, which supports the community, ended up being the swaying factor. Everyone was eager to pitch in and make a difference. 

I had no idea what to expect, for within minutes even the “dry” route saw us smack dab in the middle of a great big mud puddle. I thought to myself, “It’s on now baby. This is going to get messy.” And it was, in a good way. Mud, smiles, laughter and a great cause were what this rally was all about.  I am looking forward to next year’s event, as well as participating in the now famous Pierceland Haunted House in the fall. Stay tuned for more. One thing's for certain, Pierceland peeps have it goin’ on!