On the weekend of May 24 and 25, 2008, Sharand ATV Adventures attended the ATV Derby in Woodridge, Manitoba. My husband and I camped at the Wagon Wheels Campground along with members of the ATV Pathfinders.

Nestled in the jack pine in the Sandilands Provincial Forest area, this campground has more than 20 sites and three chalet-style cabins available for rent. The campground is equipped with flush toilets, showers and laundry facilities.

On the day of the derby, we rode our ATVs from our campsite to the community centre and got ready for the event. We headed off to join the early birds who were playing in the mud on the mud run.

Along one of the power lines that runs through Woodridge there were many riders driving in, getting stuck and pulling each other out; they had the biggest grins on their faces, which told a story of how much fun it was. After taking pictures and videos and playing in the mud ourselves, we headed back to ride on the dry run.

We had to keep quite a distance between each quad as the terrain was very dry and dusty. As we were approaching the checkstop that was the designated lunch stop, we looked towards Woodridge and noticed a lot of smoke.

Once we arrived at the checkstop, we had a drink and got our burgers. Later, we were informed that there was a forest fire in the area so had to cut our ride short and head back to our campsite.

The cause of the fire wasn’t fully investigated but the blame was quickly put on ATVers. With negative reports like this one, we are saddened with what has conspired against our sport.

Afterwards, we joined up with the ATV Pathfinders for a great potluck supper, awesome camaraderie and a 50th birthday celebration for Bob who also shared the second prize winnings from the derby.