Porter's Corner
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5 November 2008November MVTR Meeting
The pre-meeting, Rocky Enduro
wrap-up, MVTR/SCTR, Comp/Sanctioning meeting ran long. Consequently, the
November meeting began @ 19:13 with most everyone already quieted down by
quantities of pizza.
A review of recent past and upcoming events
found MVTR members actively riding in MX, HS and Enduros. Ryan
headed up a team effort and Duane was an
ironman, class winner at MotoMayhem. Jon listed off a number of MX events
but didnt say if he actually rode (or planned to ride) any of them. Andy,
Cody and Dave were among the riders at the latest PSTR Short Course event.
The Black and Blue Enduro finished out the season (depending on State OK to
run Rocktoberfast) with a course similar to last years event, they have got
it down to only about 6 miles of the trail being on state land (less to be
shut out of) and had 30 rows or riders.
The end of the HS season is fast approaching
with the Hard Knox scheduled for 9 November. If the state does reopen the
Western MA State Forests, the rescheduled Rocktoberfast will finish out the
Enduro season on 16 November.
The Rocky Mountain Enduro was reviewed. 102
riders signed up with 20 +/- new NETRA memberships processed which leads us
to believe that the all off-road format may indeed bring more riders into
the sport. Rick had done his best to make it a rideable event where B and
C riders could finish and timekeeping (i.e. thinking would be required of
the A riders, a tropical deluge on Saturday night certainly undermined those
efforts. A common reply to riders asking advice about riding their first
enduro is Just ride it like a trail ride, dont worry about time keeping
the first time. We apparently had quite a few first time riders who took
that advice to heart and didnt even look at the rules ahead of time. A
substantial reset way through the first loop was often ignored and many
burned the following check point by a LOT, they still got their day of trail
riding in but might have posted respectable scores had they not DQd
themselves early. Mike, Dave and JD were among our members who rode the
event, Dave and JD are among those who NOW know what a reset is.
There is a Work Party scheduled in Alton on 8
November 2008 to replace a bridge at Bergerons. The standard meeting
time/place (08:00 @ Alton Circle McDonalds or 09:00 @ the property) apply.
Note, since I am late at getting this summary assembled the time has already
passed, see:
http://www.nedirtbikes.com/content/m_145223/mpage_1/key_/tm.htm - 145223
for more information.
The 2009 NETRA Event Sanctioning Meeting and
Competition Committee Meeting will be held in early December (the first
weekend?). In preparation for that, it was time to review our event plans.
The (recent) past Classic Trail Bosses have all stepped forward to take on
another year of toil and trouble (they love it! (I hope)). We are looking at
combining our two Rocky events into one big(ger) weekend! The plan would be
to add the Enduro onto the Saturday program, thereby moving it from late
October (potentially cold and dark) to July. Theoretically, there is a
hole in the enduro schedule at that time, the event would retain its all
off-road format so as to NOT be sending riders out onto tourist covered
roads. We should be able to reduce some of our infrastructure costs,
mostly in terms of the amount of TIME that club members spend away from home
and family to prepare for the event(s) and also in having just one (well,
plus the Classic) long weekend to put them on instead of two. It would still
require lots of work but the hope is that it would reduce the total number
of days that need to be worked. An idea in conjunction
with this is to possibly have some form of Ironman Challenge for riders
who choose to compete on both days! Rick told us he is
submitting a rule change request that would allow for a modified version of
the AMA Enduro Rules. He feels this would allow competitors to ride with
their friends throughout the day (keep on the same minute) but still address
the (speed) situations that Brand X rules were instituted to deal with. A discussion as to how
to best entertain the concept of the Work Credit Rule was begun. There
appear to be as many interpretations of the rule as there are clubs. Some
clubs require a substantial commitment as a condition of membership (beyond
the scope of the NETRA championship points rule) and others accept almost
any effort as sufficient to qualify for the NETRA credit. Our ongoing trail
bosses are going to look at various options and should be bringing an MVTR
version to the membership for review in January.
Somehow missed during our
discussion of upcoming events was the Toys for Tots Ride in Assonet, MA on
16 November 2008. For those who are not yet aware this day serves as two
fund raising events! Toys donated at the event are distributed to those in
need for the holiday season, in addition donated cash will end up at the
CLASSIC as part of the annual PSTR donation to OUR event.
Dont miss out on this opportunity to support those who support us!
1 October 2008
October
MVTR Meeting The October meeting began at a somewhat delayed 19:30, there was hope that attendance would be improved as we got closer to 20:00, figuring that not everyone got the message that we were now on fall (cant bring myself to call it winter just yet) schedule. It may have been the daylight-induced curtailment of the pre-meeting ride or the (unfounded) fear that there wouldnt be enough pizza but in the end only about 35 members were present. First on the agenda were reports of who had been riding where. Among the events of the last month in which MVTR riders participated were: The Buckfield International Invitational 2 Day Trail Ride is set up in a similar format to the Colorado 500. Mark, Dan, Tuck and 33 others left Buckfield on Saturday in led, ability (or perhaps chosen speed) groups to make their way to Sunday River where they enjoyed a banquet, night sleep and breakfast before returning to Buckfield on Sunday by way of different trails. Tuck observed that some of the AA level riders turned out to be C level drinkers, which may have had something to do with all of the groups arriving at about the same time! The Hawk Ride is an invitational ride dedicated to Tom McAlpine. For 2008 there were 36 riders who enjoyed the 80-mile trail ride along with entertainment by the Kings Highway band and a BBQ by Goodie Coles. Proceeds will go to cancer charities. Only one injury was noted, in his own (sort of) words, Bird had to wobble home on a flat tire because it was less painful than walking or fixing it. Despite rain prior to the event, conditions at the Ammo, i.e. the Ammonoosuc River Turkey Run were described as good traction, perfect temperature and little standing water. Rick reported on two enduros. The Mudslinger (now Hell in the Hills) was said to be nasty, substantial rain added to tough terrain yielded a total of 8 official finishers. Finishing 7th, he said it was one of the toughest events hed ever ridden. Diametrically opposite was Newark, a long, 7 hour ride to get there but great riding, even for the C riders. He earned a 6th there. Pete reported that Unadilla was like riding a roller coaster on a dirt bike. He was among the 450 or so riders in the morning race, earning a 5th in class and 45th overall. All agreed that the dirt and layout were great for the morning race; the afternoon race was an entirely different story. Heavy rain turned much of the track into a mudbug for the afternoon riders. In off road news: NHATV announced the 1st Annual Wal-Mart/Childrens Miracle Network ATV Ride. The ride will take place on 25 October 2008 at Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham, NH. No word in the announcement regarding use of bikes, a description of the trails as being mostly suitable for younger & beginner riders might indicate it not being challenging for an experienced dirt bike rider but perhaps a great way to enjoy a nice fall day with the family. For information packet & Pre-registration email Clinton Robinson ccrobin@wal-mart.com. Umbagog ATV riders were close but unsuccessful in their bid to obtain permission for OHRVs to be operated on some roads in Coos County. This is a trend that is passing in some areas of the country where the value of OHRV recreation to the communities has been realized. It will probably return for reconsideration.
We were joined for the evening by Jay McGrath, known by many in the off road world as the voice of Jolly Roger Motosport Park and the owner of the MX track that many have sampled while riding day 2 of the New England Classic Charity Trail Ride. Jay is now Sales and Marketing Advisor to Western Power Sports, Inc and brought many samples of new, innovative riding gear and helmets for dirt riders (helmets for snowmobile riding as well), in addition he brought samples of some new tires they are producing. When not working in the power sports industry, Jay is a driving force in the Hawk Ride mentioned earlier. Ray told us about some of the BBR type riding available in VT through CCC of VT. They have about 940 miles of back/dirt roads route sheeted. John advised us that the Classic Committee would be meeting later this month. If you would like to work on the committee, contact Lisa @ no-new-eng@cff.org. Last but most certainly not least is our Rocky Mountain Enduro! Several work days have been held and much of the work is done but it is not too late to join in the preparation for our 26 October 2008 event. Tuck will be leading a select contingent into the wilds of Alton @ 08:30 on Friday morning. Rick has several projects to undertake on Sunday 5 October 2008, all available members are requested to meet at the Alton Circle McDonalds @ 08:00. There will also be a (not yet scheduled) work party over the holiday weekend and final touches on Saturday the 25th. Lots of check workers, general help, tech. and some sweep riders needed on event day. Two all off-road laps (52 miles) have been route sheeted, Key Time is 09:00, Brand X rules. There will be a Saturday afternoon sign-up available between 16:00 and 17:30.
3 September 2008 September MVTR MeetingSummary
The pizza arrived at 1943 and was quickly enjoyed by all present, particularly those who have been at the recent past meetings where the offering has ranged from slim to none. President Tom was out of state for work; Vice President Jon took the reins but lacked the experience to get the meeting underway while most had their mouths full. He was in truth a part of the steady line of MVTR members at the parts counter hoping to repair what they broke at the Grassy Knoll in time to partake in the Ammo, Stateline or Alton work party this coming weekend (but I thought, my version sounded better). The meeting began at 8:00 pm dull (20:17) with a report on the pre-meeting ride. 21 miles of fast and dusty trail was run by a number (missed writing down how many) of club members. I have to wait for official word but think that next months meeting may be moving back to a 19:00 start time. Pre-Meeting riding may continue but with a sunset at 18:25 next month the riders should be in early enough, but it might be close. Grassy KnollA number of MVTR riders traveled down to Somers, CT to partake in the Grassy Knoll Hare Scramble over the holiday weekend. Dwayne was again on the podium with 2nd A Senior. JD said he wasnt at the top of his class and Pete explained how some strategy decisions in his first ever HS moved him down to 4th in class. Rocky Mountain EnduroOur enduro is moving along toward its scheduled date 26 October 2008. The Labor Day work party brought out 10-12 volunteers to clear trail and help burn it in (the afternoon reward for coming out on a holiday to work). There is still some trail to be ridden and cleared of blow downs and face slappers but most of the trail cutting is complete. It was 25 miles with a newly cut 3 more added in it is getting close to 60 miles for the two-lap day. All the new stuff is reported to be ride able regardless of what we may see for weather, the older stuff is The Rocky, not smooth and flat but no stoppers reported. Not mentioned in the flyer, there will probably be a gas truck or trailer positioned out on the Bergeron property (about mid-lap) for those who arent sure about finishing a 30-mile lap on an MX bike. More work remains to be done both before and during the event. This Sunday (0800, @ Alton Traffic Circle McDonalds) there should be a group working (unless we are in the midst of Hurricane Hanna, Ed. Note). Our host has again requested some help in removing rocks from a new hayfield date TBD. Lots of help needed on event day to run/help with sign-up, tech (mostly sound), checks and sweeping (got a good headlight? Sunset @17:45 that day). Colorado 500The New England Rough Riders once again made the pilgrimage to the dirt Mecca of Colorado. This was Tucks 20th trip to the 500 which was appropriately honored, word is that his custom painted commemorative helmet will be preserved for ceremonial use in a display case rather than abused while trail bossing the Classic. The riders rode 700 miles over 5 days (not including a side trip some made to Moab). Art and Rupert (this years rookies) reported on the experience from the first timers perspective. Chip described almost being knocked off the trail in a place where off the trail meant a 2,000 drop. One of our groups had the honor of being joined on Friday by Malcolm (YES, that Malcolm) who requested to ride with them. Neal was acknowledged with a Perseverance Award, including special commentary. Neal, I think we need helmet cam footage or at least pictures to fully appreciate the Jeep incident. It sounded as though all were ready and waiting to make the journey again. LegislativeJim is still trying to determine whether or not MVTR can have its own representative to the Bureau Of Trails. If it is allowed, Tuck will consider filling that spot. UpcomingThings to look forward to in the next month: 9/7 The Sateline HS in Hoosick, NY 9/7 The Ammonoosuc Turky Run in N. Haverhill, NH 9/7 The Rocky work party in Alton, NH 9/14 The Hell in the Hills enduro in Sandisfield, MA 9/21 The Newark enduro in Fairville, NY 9/28 The Rocktoberfast enduro in Lee, MA 9/28 Unadilla And dont forget to mark your calendar NOW for the Rocky Mountain Enduro on 26 October 2008. 6 August 2008
MVTR August Meeting
We are looking into
our representation at the State Trails Board as to whether we are
represented by association or can have a club representative.
2 July 2008
July M V T R Meeting
Rocky Mountain WeekendOnly a few weeks left and much still to do in preparation for the event. While the event officially takes place on the 26th and 27th of July there is plenty to be done between now and then. We are looking to all MVTR members along with their friends and families to get it all done! There are work parties scheduled for the 8th, 12th, 16th, 19th and 20th to get the course ready. Something on the order of 1 miles of trail needs to be cut to connect some existing trail sections. We are trying to work to both the letter and spirit of the NETRA Club Work Rule which calls for riders to work the event that their club puts on, in that vein the Trail Bosses have been politely (we hope) declining many of the requests to work our event by members of other clubs. One consequence of this is that we will really need all of our Hare Scrambles riders to step up and help out! At the Rocky Weekend itself, help will be needed during all hours between mid-day Friday (probably all day really) when we start collecting signatures on the event waiver and Sunday evening when the last of the grass track stakes are collected and the trash (yes, it IS carry-in, carry-out but.) is gathered. In between we need people for sign-up, AMA and NETRA membership, tech inspection, first-aid, back up scoring (I hear nothing ever goes wrong with the electronic system), course marshals, pre-riders, sweep riders and a hundred other jobs. Among those other jobs will be parking! Like last year we are limited to how much land is available. The need (he has to make a living too) for the landowner to utilize much of the field for a (paying) hay crop leaves us without the seemingly endless space of the past. Large trailers and RVs will have to be parked perpendicular to the road and side by side in the order of their arrival. We just dont have room for people to set up their own compound or save spaces for friends who may be arriving later. Highlights of the weekend should include: crews from Red Bull, HRP/Scorbordz and Factory Connection. The Junior Enduro and the PeeWees ride on Saturday and the full-on Hare Scramble is on Sunday. The status of the traditional Saturday night movies is unknown, still hoping to find a projector to use. Weather permitting we may have a new addition to the Opening Ceremony on Sunday morning. The availability of a short suspension tuning loop, with advice from FC on Saturday afternoon is still possible but not definite.
Trail Bosses for the Weekend are: PeeWee-Andy Anthony Jr. Enduro-Jon Thomas H.S.-Shawn Levesque
Classic Review The Trail Bosses are constructing review/overview articles for inclusion in our next newsletter. Some of the highpoints shared at the meeting were: The rain prior to the event probably helped a lot with dust but was not so much as to create quagmires (not to say that there werent a few slick spots). Despite having about 50 less riders entered this year the event still raised $135,000 for Cystic Fibrosis research. It appears that having Rodney Smith address the riders and remind them that they were all ambassadors for the sport was a real plus, the message was taken to heart and most everyone was on their best behavior. Pretty much everyone made it back to the track intact, there were some broken bikes but broken bodies were in the minority (bruises and the occasional dislocation not withstanding). On the Kids Classic there were some minor heat issues and at least one rider needed the reminder that the water was for drinking and didnt have to be saved to clean-up later. The kids appeared to appreciate sharing lunch with the Big Bike Rally (I know that I appreciated the chance to get off the DR and sit on a comfortable rock for a while). Arrows vs. Ribboning: There were more compliments than complaints on using ribbon for Sundays ride. There is still room for improvement in the marking technique (longer ribbon and choice of color for a start) but it does seem to work. Neals Ride: As many know, Neal Lorenzen, Trail Boss for many prior Classics offered to host a ride up north for the many who help to make the Classic happen. The ride was described as awesome on Saturday and a bit damp on Sunday. Commendations are in order for all who made this event another success and specifically to Neal for rewarding them. 4 June 2008June MVTR MeetingThe meeting was called to order @ 20:12. A brief review from the May meeting told that elections were held, during which Tom, Jon and I were re-elected as President, Vice President and Secretary respectively. Art is taking on the responsibility for membership to give Dave Frasier a well-earned break. Lynn and Andy Anthony will be tackling the task of keeping the treasury in order much to the relief of Michelle and Doug McKinnon. Many thanks are due to these recently retired officers for their combined decades of service to the club, if you find the newfound free time hard to fill just let us know, well think of something.. A reminder was made to riders that the new OHRV stickers are not out yet. One of our members went the extra mile to research this and learned that the fine for not having a sticker is now$120! That said, we have Rally Permits in place for the Classic and the two club rides that will take place next week. Under the permit an OHRV sticker is not required but registration and inspection are still needed. CLASSIC STUFF Registration will be up and running Friday afternoon, closing promptly at 20:00. Suzukis Rodney Smith is scheduled to arrive early enough to attend the Kids Classic Riders Meeting held @19:00 on Friday. Trail Boss John said the Northern Loop was mostly arrowed, problems caused by some less than exemplary behavior last year nearly cost us 10 miles this year but that was averted at the last minute. There will be Course Marshals posted in several locations this year to try and keep riders on good behavior in sensitive areas since those who didnt recognize the need to use control near houses also could not read the SLOW signs. Riders will need to reach Reset 4 by 12:15 in order to not be detoured away from Devils Den and directly to the lunch stop. John offered his opinion that the only really hard Hero section was the one on Rocky Mountain, and that dust may be a factor on some road sections. The Banquet is set for 18:00 on Saturday; the tent will be open to all after the meal to allow everyone to enjoy the presentations and viewing of the pre-release version of the 2008 Classic Video. A reminder that NO outside alcohol may be brought into the tent, the caterer has to operate under NH Liquor Commission rules and this is one of them. After the video and presentations the auction will be held. The Southern Loop will be our first test of Tuckers Ribbon Theory of Navigation; there will be minimal use of arrows. The theory is fairly straightforward but does work best for those that read and follow the route sheet. In brief, ribbons are kept on the riders right (OK, I can already see some of you having problems), two ribbons will be hung at intersections where a turn is to be made (Ts are not ribboned because it should be obvious that you have to make a turn), riders need only look to see whether a ribbon has been hung on the left or right trail to know which way to go. Arrows will be placed at Resets and Hero sections. The choice to use ribbons was made for two reasons, first to avoid conflict with mountain bike tracks, which shared some sections of trail and secondly to improve our ability to run under the radar of those who do not want us using their woods. The Big Bike Rally Trail Boss, Jeff Barr gave a very succinct report, Its all set. There will be informal groups helping at the track and in Alton. If you have any free time available please stop by even if only for an hour. Friday afternoon and evening as well as Saturday morning are always busy times, stop in, look for someone you recognize or who is wearing an event shirt. Help is always welcome! Despite it not being Bike Week following the Classic this year there will once again be two mid-week rides for MVTR members and invited guests. Tuesdays ride will begin at Jim Nashs (following breakfast at the Intervale Pancake House) @0900. Though not leading this years ride, Jim said the loop would be 70-80 miles including some new trail. Thursdays ride will begin at Jolly Roger. Steve says that its between 60 and 90 miles, they will again split into a fast group and a slow group but he expects both to finish about the same time (as usual). Each rides will be followed by a BBQ (donations gratefully accepted). EVERYTHING ELSE The next MVTR big Project will be the fast approaching Rocky Mountain Weekend. Scheduled for 26 &27 July, there will be a Jr. Enduro and PeeWee Hare Scrambles on Saturday and the full Hare Scrambles program on Sunday. Factory Connection is again planning to be on-site with (hopefully, still in planning) a test circuit available on Saturday afternoon for riders to get their adjustments tuned. Scorbordz/HRP are expected as well. BRP 7 May 2008 May MVTR Meeting: Bruce was not in attendance so there isn't a meeting report this month.....sorry. 2 April 2008MVTR April MeetingI have been quite lax
at getting this information processed and available. I apologize in advance
for any of this information that has already been superceded. The meeting was called
to order at 19:17 hours by President Tom. First up to speak was Chris
Olivario, formerly of NHOHRV, now representing National Off Highway Vehicle
Conservation Council (NOHVCC). Chris spoke of the changing faces of OHRV
use, representation and legislation adding that he was working to get more
training/safety courses available.
Winter activities were next on
the agenda. It was noted that KPTR would be having their Awards Night on 5
April 2008. Also mentioned was that Seacoast Trail Riders have an annual
potluck dinner/get together in place of the January meeting. MVTR used
to have a similar winter activity but it apparently transcended the concept
and became the basis for “soap opera/reality TV” type behavior and faded
away. There is interest in resurrecting the concept (minus the “sordid
details”) but we need someone to step forward and take on the organizational
mantle. Peter Anania presented
a report on the trails and tribulations of orchestrating this years Winter
Scramble. It was initially postponed due to an overabundance of snow, then
came issues with using National Forest Land, still they head about 4 miles
of trail but still too much snow. In the end, it was necessary to move the
event to Freetown, MA where they hosted 335 anxious to get out on the trail
riders including our own Tuck, Mark, Dwayne and Andy. They are looking to
try and schedule it for early January in ’09. Classic News and
Notes:
It looks (never a guarantee,
schedules get changed for the Pro-Riders) as though we will be seeing Rodney
Smith this year to represent American Suzuki, if possible he will be here on
Friday evening to participate in the Rider’s Meeting of the “Kid’s Classic”.
Devil’s Den should be included on this years’ Northern Loop with a trip over
Caverly Mtn. There should be no scheduling conflict with the Mtn. Bikers
over use of Bear Brook for the Southern Loop. The Big Bike Rally will be
using a version of the 2005 route. “Kid’s Classic” packets are not yet
available (remember this was as of April 2nd) but will be at the
next MVTR meeting. If your “kid” has not previously participated but wants
to this year contact the CFF office soon, spaces fill up early! There is
(was) a Classic Committee meeting scheduled for April 15th. Despite it not being
“Bike Week” following the Classic this year, there will still be mid-week
rides planned on Tuesday and Thursday for MVTR riders and invited guests.
Peter Anania spoke to us again,
this time regarding his recent venture into dirt bike tours. Peter and his
partner Brad have formed a company to offer tours in Maine, NH, CO,NM and
UT. Colorado trips begin July 22nd and will run $1,300 to $1,500
plus airfare. Check them out at
www.SeaCoastTours.net.
Art reported that he had 50 to
60 MVTR racers entered into the NETRA database so far. If you race and want
championship points you HAVE
to be entered, it is YOUR
responsibility to insure that you are included so contact Art!
The end of “Official Mud Season”
(i.e. May 23rd) and consequently the reopening of Hop-Ev, is
approaching. In celebration Matt is planning a ride on that day (my notes
say Sunday the 23rd, can’t be both… idk), meeting at 0700 at the
park. Brian will be heading up the “club” 2nd Wednesday of the
month rides and Dave (Skid to those on NEDB) will be working on another date
(TBA).
Meeting adjourned at 20:50. Once
again I apologize for the tardiness in getting this together. If anyone took
notes at the May meeting (just too long a drive back from Key West for me to
make the meeting) please get them to me and I will put together a summary.
Bruce 2 January 2008 January MVTR Meeting
The first meeting of 2008 began at 19:18. In consideration of the “real” winter weather we have been seeing the first items on the agenda were all snow related. Legislative
There is word that NH is looking at creating/accepting OHRV reciprocity with ME. We haven’t seen anything in writing and do not know for sure if it would apply to all OHRVs or just snowmobiles. Jim will be looking into the idea of MVTR becoming an “official” snowmobile club again to meet the club member requirements for snowmobile registration. We were in the past a part of the state snowmobile association but our membership was dropped (by them) because their insurance only covered groups whose events took place on snow (don’t know how that works out when they do trail work the rest of the year). More Snow
Austin’s Ride will be taking place on 23 February 2008. This is a Cystic Fibrosis Foundation fundraiser, which takes place each year in Colebrook. MVTR has traditionally tried to support this ride, this year Tom along with family and friends are planning to stage a “ride-in” from Epsom or Chichester to Colebrook on the 22nd. Plans are still being finalized; contact Tom if you would like to be included. With the record December snowfall putting a damper on wheeled riding at Hop-Ev, Tom suggested that we look into the concept of “grooming” the bike/atv trails there. This would not be the ski slope type grooming as done by the snowmobile clubs, more along the lines of compacting the fresh snowfall so that it could be ridden on wheels. Someone (didn’t catch who) will look into what can be done on narrow trails and what equipment it would take to do it. Trail Maintenance
The deadline for grant applications is 17 January 2008. Brian is finishing up our 2008 application. The “big ticket” items on our request this year are a replacement for our 1998 Grizzly which has worked long and hard on the trails and a larger trailer which could haul the replacement along with the ATV wagon (dual axle, dump trailer which we purchased through last years RTP grant program). Fitting everything into the current trailer is best described as “challenging”; it can be done with enough time, patience, planning and helping hands, but adds considerably to an already long day of trail maintenance. (I should get down off the soapbox now, but having been the first one to try and fit the new wagon in with all the other gear I can attest that “It ain’t easy”.) Classic Committee
Tucker reported that he will be submitting his applications for trail use permits soon. He is hopeful that after being dis-allowed from Bear Brook for two years we will be able to include it in this year’s Southern Loop. Andy and Lynn are still looking into the feasibility of adding a PeeWee Classic to this year’s event, so far interest from the “usual” PeeWee families surveyed does not seem high. NETRA
Quite a few items were discussed at the Sanctioning/Competition Meeting back in early December. Tucker told us that he and Ken Law had considered exchanging dates for our respective events in October 2008, they had agreed that the Rocky Mountain Enduro could take place on October 12th (earlier in the season, longer travel for most riders) and the Hoots Fall Final HS could run on Oct 26th. When all was said and done though it did not get written down that way on the schedule. He will be following up on this. The Youth Committee has made the PeeWee program more of a self governing entity, leaving the Competition Committee one less thing to have to oversee. One change we will be seeing in PeeWee is that promotional points will be falling by the wayside, promotion will be decided upon by the committee on an individual basis utilizing an evaluation of the rider’s ability and size. It is hoped that this will result in more uniformity within the PeeWee groups. A Recreational Committee is being formed to help the clubs with non-competition events. J.D. has consented to represent both MVTR and Seacoast TR (pending the Seacoast meeting on Thursday). Tucker has reserved two tables for MVTR at the Annual Banquet. His current list of attendees exceeds that by one. It is not too late (but getting close) to add another table so if you plan on going and would like to be “part of the group” please let him know soon. Tuck also stated that MVTR was now a “lifetime member” in NETRA. Events, Past and Upcoming
Bob Landry commented on the MVTR Challenge held on a cold December 2nd morning in Windham. Only about 15-17 riders participated on the now 5.1 mile course but all present had a good time. Bob also commented that there is currently too much soft snow to ride on (in?). The forcast upcoming thaw should allow the snow to settle and riding should begin once it refreezes. He said that there are currently about 60 names on the contact list for winter riding, if you want to ride be sure your name is among them by getting your e-mail address to him at: 5 December 2007
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