There’s no better way to experience the natural beauty of northern Nova Scotia than from the seat of a dirt bike or dualsport, and our recent NSORRA Big Bike Friendly Rec Ride from Debert to Folly Mountain proved just that. Riders Marc (GasGas 300), Philip (Tenere 700), and Todd (KTM 690) joined me on an unforgettable tour through Colchester and Cumberland counties, and the terrain, views, and camaraderie did not disappoint.

Lakes, Look-Offs, and a Castle

As promised, this route delivered a full range of scenic highlights. We visited lakes, rivers, a beautiful waterfall, and even the legendary Johnston Lake castle tucked away in the woods. Several look-offs along the way gave us panoramic views of both PEI and the Bay of Fundy – a rare treat to see both in one ride.

The trails were a mix of logging roads, ATV and snowmobile trails, and rugged terrain, offering a perfect balance for both full-sized enduro bikes and larger adventure machines. It was a real ride-through-the-wild kind of day.

A Pit Stop with a Twist

Near New Annan, we stopped at what looked like a gravel pit. Philip, who works in a nickel mine in Sudbury, surprised us all with his knowledge. He identified the site as resembling a test mine for coal, adding a cool educational moment to our day.

We stopped midway at my camp for a hotdog break, which hit the spot. After lunch, Philip headed back to New Brunswick. His fully loaded Tenere 700 – complete with tools and spare parts – showed just how prepared he was for anything the ride could throw at him.

The Bikes Held Their Own

Marc was amazed his GasGas 300 managed over 100 km on a single tank, thanks to expert jetting by Triple S Cycle Works, one of our awesome NSORRA sponsors. My NSORRA X-trainer barely sipped any fuel all day. After topping up our tanks, we set off for the second half of the ride, which included a view of the new Minas Basin and a scenic iron bridge crossing.

Trail Work and Teamwork

On the way back, we retraced the River Trail we’d ridden that morning. A large deadfall had come down in the meantime and blocked our way. Luckily, I’d packed a saw, and we quickly got the trail cleared.

Over 130 km of Adventure

By the end of the day, we had covered over 130 km in 8.5 hours. Whether it was Philip from New Brunswick or Todd from Shelburne, it’s hard to say who traveled further to join the ride, but everyone walked (or rode) away with a full day of adventure under their belts.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

A huge shoutout to Co-operators Insurance, our Rec Ride sponsor, and Rallye Motoplex and Marine, our Dualsport sponsor, for supporting this ride and helping NSORRA bring these kinds of experiences to life.

Want to join our next Rec Ride?
Visit nsorra.ca/events to sign up and experience your own two-wheeled Nova Scotia adventure!

Neil Jennings is a NSORRA Rec Ride host, NSORRA Vice President and Training co-Director. He enjoys hosting recreational rides from his camp on Folly Mountain.

• 20 Sponsors Allow NSORRA to Offer Great Programming

Congratulations to the following riders who have been promoted for the 2025 season!

Junior/Sportsman to Intermediate B

• Dustin Butler
• Luke Curtis
• Jack Mallery

Sportsman to Intermediate B

• Will Ross
• Keaton Crouse
• Jake Seaward
• Aiden Chase
• Brad Bruce
• Nick Cottreau

Intermediate B to Intermediate A

• Steven Hussey
• Calem Slaunwhite

Intermediate A to Expert

• Tristan Cavanagh
• Jordan Madden

2025 is shaping up to be a big year for the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association!

Though the snow continues to fall, we have riders out riding frozen trail across the province. We continue to sign new land agreements and develop and expand our ride parks.

Time to Evaluate

Preseason is always a good time to evaluate how things work, including on the technology side. As anyone who has registered for a NSORRA membership or event knows, there are occasionally difficulties as the process sends members on a wild goose chase with passwords.

We have been thinking about making a change for a while and after much discussion, we have decided to transition our website, membership, registration and race processes over to the LiveLaps system. Though LiveLaps was initially established as a race registration and electronic timing program, it has expanded into websites that can encompass all of our programs from Training, Trails, Special Events and of course Race. New and exciting news for 2025, is the use of LiveLaps for electronic timing at our hare scrambles!

2024 Hare Scramblers Only

Right now, we are inviting all 2024 racing members to sign up for their 2025 NSORRA membership by February 16. This is the initial membership launch to allow our racers to secure their current bike numbers in the LiveLaps system. After this initial process, your race number will be secure provided you renew each year.

On February 18, NSORRA membership will be open to new hare scramblers and the unassigned numbers will be released.

General Members (non-racing)

General membership, for those not racing, is also open. NSORRA membership through LiveLaps is for all NSORRA members, not just hare scramblers. You are given the option of signing up as a Race Member or as a General Member. The main difference is that race members are given the option to choose a bike number.

The registration process is simple

Step 1: Go to livelaps.com and on the top banner choose Create an Account (this is free)

Step 2: Create an account for each member you are registering with NSORRA. This includes all members whether they are racing or not.

Step 3: Log in to your account and sign up for a membership with NSORRA.

NBDRA, our sister association, has also transitioned to LiveLaps, which will open some opportunities for us going forward. In your LiveLaps profile you can link other profiles for your convenience when it comes to registering for a race.

Important Notes

• If you have already purchased your NSORRA membership, your file will be linked to your LiveLaps profile. You must create a LiveLaps file so that your membership can transfer to the new system. Go to livelaps.com and on the top banner choose Create an Account (this is free).
• When creating a NSORRA membership make sure you select a RACE MEMBERSHIP if you are a racer and select the same bike number you have now under “CLASSES”. Do not purchase a general membership if you are a racer!!!
• Do not select a new race number. Only select your existing race number once you have selected your class. If you wish a new race number, contact us before you renew your membership to see if that number is available.
• There will be a delay in membership package mailings during this transition period.
• Please include your complete address including post office box and apartment number. Stamps are expensive so there will be an additional processing fee if membership packages are returned for incomplete addresses.

If you have any questions, please send them to info@nsorra.ca and we will get back to you as soon as we have answers.

Looking forward to a great 2025 riding season!

When it comes to fueling your dirt bike, the right choice can significantly impact performance, longevity, and overall enjoyment. Let’s dive into the different types of fuel available and their implications.

Regular Unleaded Gasoline

• Octane Rating: Typically 87
• Suitability: Most dirt bikes will run on regular unleaded gas.
• Pros: Widely available, cost-effective.
• Cons: May not optimise performance for high-compression engines.

Mid-Grade Gasoline

• Octane Rating: Usually 89–90
• Use Case: Suitable for some dirt bikes with moderate performance requirements.
• Pros: Slightly better combustion stability than regular gas.
• Cons: Limited benefits unless your bike specifically requires it.

Premium Gasoline

• Octane Rating: Typically 91–94
• Recommended for: Performance-oriented dirt bikes, especially those with high-compression engines.
• Pros: Protects against premature ignition (knocking or pinging).
• Cons: Higher cost, unnecessary for most stock bikes.

What fuel is best for dirt bikes?

The best fuel for your specific dirt bike is what the manual recommends. For example, a Honda CRF250F is made to work well with regular 87 octane pump gas. In general, most bikes will run just fine on 87, unless you have a more race-bred motorcycle or performance modifications done to your engine.

What about Race Gas?

It’s expensive, smells pretty good, but you almost certainly don’t need it. This high octane fuel is only going to benefit you if high performance modifications have been done to your engine and has been properly set-up to run race gas. Otherwise, save your money.

What happens if you use regular 87 in a dirt bike that requires 91 or higher premium gas?
You may or may not notice the effects right away, but if you use the wrong gas or too low of octane for your dirt bike, the fuel will burn too quickly and potentially cause overheating, detonation, more rapid fuel consumption, backfiring or bogging. If you hear a pinging or knocking sound coming from your engine under load, you likely need higher octane gas or a retune.

What about Ethanol?
One type of gas to avoid, if possible, is ethanol-based (yes, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to avoid). Ethanol, commonly found in E10 gasoline (which contains up to 10% ethanol), can significantly impact your dirt bike’s performance. The big concern using ethanol-based fuel is corrosion. Ethanol attracts moisture which, over time, corrodes vital engine parts. Ethanol-blended fuels have a shorter shelf life and can gum up carburetors and accelerate rubber deterioration. So, go ahead and use ethanol blends if that’s all you have access to, but do not run gas with an ethanol concentration above 10%. And above all, don't let these fuels age in your bike, or in your fuel cans.

Does elevation affect what fuel you should use?

A new Motorcycle Adventure Route Initiative launches to showcase Canada’s beauty and connect riders coast-to-coast.

The thrill of adventure riding, both on-road and offroad, is about to get even better for motorcyclists across Canada with the launch of the Adventure Routes Canada (ARC) Initiative, an ambitious new project aimed at creating, enhancing, and connecting adventure motorcycling routes nationwide. This initiative is the brainchild of the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC).

Designed to celebrate Canada’s breathtaking landscapes and unite the adventure riding community, ARC will highlight existing iconic routes while developing new ones that link provinces and territories. The initiative promises to provide unparalleled riding experiences for motorcyclists while fostering community engagement, boosting local tourism, and creating economic opportunities for communities across the country.

“Canada offers some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring terrains in the world, making it a dream destination for adventure motorcyclists,” said Dave Millier, President of the MCC and one of the founding members of the Adventure committee that is driving this project. “ARC is about more than just the ride—it’s about building connections, supporting local businesses, and showcasing the natural beauty and culture of our country.”

Key Goals of the ARC Initiative

• Enhance Riding Experiences: Develop and connect a network of adventure routes that take riders through Canada’s most stunning landscapes. Unique to the ARC will be routes that are entirely paved, along with more challenging Adventure routes made up of on-road and off-road riding, including gravel, forest roads, logging roads, and unassumed road allowance, all publicly available routes.
• Community Engagement: Unite riders, tour operators, and local businesses to create a thriving adventure motorcycling community.
• Support Local Economies: Boost tourism and generate economic opportunities in rural and urban communities along the routes.
• Foster Accessibility: Ensure routes cater to riders of varying skill levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers.

We expect to launch our first 4 regions for the 2025 riding season, including British Columbia, Quebec, Ontario and the Maritimes. More routes and more regions will be added over time. NSORRA’s own, Shereef Elkoshairi is leading the effort in Nova Scotia.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider seeking your next challenge, or a motorcycle enthusiast passionate about exploring Canada, ARC invites you to be part of this transformative journey.

To stay updated on the progress of this exciting initiative, please go to www.motorcycling.ca and sign up under the ARC link to receive updates.

NOTES

UPDATED 13 January 2025

WE ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON THE 2025 EVENTS SCHEDULE.

Ride Park Updates

Hiltz Road Ride Park and Craigmore Ride Park remain open pending cold, dry conditions.

South Alton Ride Park and Mill Hill Ride Park remain closed awaiting colder conditions to freeze the ground. Please note that the roads leading to these trails are not plowed in the winter.

To minimize trail damage, all riders should avoid wet areas. With wet conditions, trail can be easily damaged. Please choose your route carefully, avoiding wet areas and do not spin your tires.

Following is the 2025 NSORRA Hare Scramble & Event Schedule

Providing better accessibility for our members, sponsors and emergency response crews is one of the goals for the work currently being completed on NSORRA’s Hiltz Road Ride Park.

Anyone who has been to Hiltz Road knows how difficult it was to find parking at the trailhead. This problem has been solved with the west side of the driveway cleared north of the outhouse and rough-leveled. The old woods road has been opened up and widened to allow for through traffic and parking along the side of its length.

Additional gravel may be needed to stabilize soft spots which will need surfacing in the spring/early summer of 2025 before we use it for an event. Riders are asked to avoid soft areas to minimize damaging it. Watch for CAUTION tape to delineate new area.

Five hare scrambles, five rec rides, three days with Megs Braap, the Moto Show, the Drive to Ride and a fantastic Women In Moto event with 42 participants! How were we able to do all these events during the 2024 season? Thank our sponsors!

Title Sponsor – Soles In Motion

Soles In Motion returned in a big way as our TITLE sponsor this season. Jen and Chris Estabrooks set up at the first Craigmore scramble and at Mill Hill for the race and the Drive to Ride. During the events, several riders visited the Soles In Motion tent to be sized for braces –one stop shopping! The Estabrooks have been supporters of NSORRA for many years and we appreciate you! Thank you!

Platinum Sponsors – CrossRoads Cycle, Eassons Powersports and Kynock Resources

In 2024, we had one new and two returning PLATINUM sponsors. Easson’s Powersports in Coldbrook joined us as a PLATINUM Sponsor this season. Thanks to Jeff Easson at Easson Powersports who sponsored the Weekend at Mill Hill including a scramble held at the Park after several years hiatus.

Our first returning PLATINUM Sponsor is CrossRoads Cycle. A big shout out to Chuck Graham who represented CrossRoads at events all over the province and to Lee Weir, owner of CrossRoads. We appreciate you choosing to send your sponsorship dollars our way. Thank you!

We also want to give a special shout out to PLATINUM Sponsor – Kynock Resources. Owner Brent Pottle offered land on his business’s property for us to run the NSORRA dirt bike school. It is an amazing central location where he allows us to provide great dirt bike training opportunities for our members.

GOLD Sponsors

We started the season with Cabot Powersports as our Craigmore Hare Scramble Sponsor. As the biggest motorcycle dealer in Cape Breton, it was great to see them take on this event which attracted a great crowd of Capers.

Shore Cycle and Marine was this year’s GOLD sponsor for the South Alton Ride Park Scramble. Cathy, Fred and Kandra brought a couple hundred hot dogs, drinks and snacks, raising over $700 for NSORRA’s own Kathleen Tobin for her trip to the ISDE 6 days of Spain. Kathleen and the Canadian Women’s Club Team took home the bronze medal! Kathleen sends her thanks to Shore Cycle and all of the NSORRA members who helped finance her trip to make this happen!

Welcome to our newest hare scramble GOLD sponsor, Dan Cooper and AllSteel Coatings Limited who sponsored #5 at Craigmore. Besides sponsoring, Dan and the Cooper family have taken a leading role in maintaining Craigmore Ride Park. Dan and Vanessa are always willing to volunteer a helping hand at our events. Thank you!

When it comes to the scrambles, everyone is familiar with GOLD sponsor Truro Motorsports. Randy McLeod donated the prized red Holeshot t-shirts this year that were awarded to winners.

Pro Cycle sponsored our Women In Moto event this season. Kira McWilliams and her team brought a tent, a van and great prizes to give away to our record breaking 42 participants. And, Kira, who is our volunteer photographer here today, also took beautiful photos of the event participants, contributing to the fun of the day.

The Shack at Liberty CC came on as a GOLD sponsor this year. They sponsored the Megs Braap clinics, which allowed us to cover our expenses for the event such as land rental and portapotties – you know, the fun stuff.

Honda Canada stepped in to sponsor both Race and Women In Moto this season. Several of the bikes in our dirt bike school are Hondas thanks to their past sponsorship of the school.

We also had two other GOLD sponsors this season – Rallye Motoplex sponsored an excellent rec ride series of five events that attracted beginner, intermediate, dualsport and enduro riders from Yarmouth to Sydney.

Finally in the GOLD Sponsor category, we are recognizing Canadian Kawasaki Motors who has returned as a strong supporter of our events. Thank you!

Silver Sponsors

Stuart Buck of Triple S Cycle Works is our superstar SILVER sponsor. If there is anything he can do to support NSORRA and dirt bike riders, he is there! From clearing trails to attending events and even acting as a sweep rider, we could always count on Stuart and his team to lend a hand. Reflecting his commitment to the sport, Stuart came onto the Board as Trails co-Director in 2024.

Jungle Jim’s Eatery – Bayer’s Lake owner Bruce Skinner returned as a SILVER sponsor this season. Besides participating in our hare scrambles, Bruce also donated several hundred dollars in gift certificates for his restaurant. On behalf of those prize winners, thank you, Bruce!

We have two new SILVER Sponsors this season. APD Motorsports has returned to the fold now that they are carrying Triumph bikes. Women In Moto MX coach Brooke Johnson is their sponsored rider. It’s great to see Adrian and Lisa Bolton join us again.

GW Sampson in Kingston has joined us as a SILVER Sponsor this season. They carry Honda motorcycles and products. It is wonderful to have sponsors from across the province become more involved and supportive of NSORRA.

BRONZE Sponsors

RPM Cycle, a continued sponsor since NSORRA’s inception, sponsored a rec ride lunch this summer, much to the delight of event participants.

Steele Recreation, located near Bridgewater, opened their new location in 2024 and hopes to offer a site for NSORRA dirt bike training in the future.

Ryan Backman of Backman Heating and Cooling sponsored our recreational rides this season. It’s great to have the grassroots support from our members.

NSORRA Supporters

We also have several other Scramble sponsors who we’d like to thank. Mountain Sports Distribution provided us with prizes from Fly Racing, 509 Off Road and Mountain Lab Gear. Callus Moto has worked with us on our swag, Zoom Cleaning Products provides cleaning wash for our dirt bike school, and Kwik Kopy Halifax assists us with our printing needs. It is so wonderful to have manufacturers, dealer and grassroot supporters for the association.

We would not have been able to put on this series without all the financial support from these sponsors. We ask all of our members to support these organizations that support us.

Funding Partners

And we can’t forget our funding partners including the Nova Scotia government through the OHVIF – the Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund and CCTH – Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage.

A shout out to Moto Canada that gave us a grant to hire Susan Foote as our Trails Coordinator this season. She is working hard to open up ride areas and parks across the province!

Many thanks to our sponsors for your support in 2024. Please reach out to Claudine, NSORRA Executive Director at ed@nsorra.ca, if you are interested in sponsoring next season. New sponsorship areas are in development.

Note to NSORRA Members

To encourage our members to participate in NSORRA events, we try to keep our event costs low. Our events would not be possible without financial support from our sponsors. We ask that you consider these sponsors first when you are looking to purchase.

See you in 2025!

Trail access in Nova Scotia is a priority for the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association.

NSORRA is working to grow trails in two ways: ride parks and general single track.

First, growing the number of Nova Scotia ride parks is important as the NS OHV Act states that Youth under 14 are only permitted to ride in closed courses. Ride parks provide riders and their families with a safe place to ride and spend time together.

Second, single track across the province is created, used and maintained by those who ride it, including NSORRA members.

Moto Canada Grant

Thanks to a 2024 Moto Canada grant, NSORRA was able to hire Susan Foote as our Trails Coordinator. Susan has been working with landowners and riders across the province to build access to trail.

We are happy to announce that, after discussions with NSORRA’s Trail team, landowner Kyle Ledwidge will be adding to NSORRA's ride park list by opening Miller Moto Trails Ride Park in Spring 2025!

Fresh off his Expert Champion title in the 2024 hare scramble series, Kyle made the announcement at the Soles In Motion - NSORRA Hare Scramble Championship Awards event in November.

Miller Moto Trails Not Open Yet!

Kyle has been working on his trails for the last several months. The new ride park borders private property that is currently accessible via his land. He asks all riders to stay off the trails until we can come up with a solution to make his trails into a fully closed course. An announcement will be made in the Spring when the park is open!

Do you have a Potential Ride Park?

If you have a large parcel of woodland that you would like to develop into a NSORRA Ride Park, we would love to hear from you! Reach out to Susan Foote at admin@nsorra.ca

Published: December 2024

A grassroots organization promotes the involvement of its members to give what they can of their time, energy and skills. NSORRA members provide these resources generously.

A cornerstone of NSORRA member engagement is our popular hare scramble race series. These events take a tremendous amount of volunteer support from preparing and sweeping trail, to administration and organizational details, to the setup and teardown on race days.

Behind the scenes, there is one highlight that we’d like to recognize – the creation of our unique race podium awards.

Podium Prizes

Justin Lewis of Sydney Forks, Cape Breton, is not only a strong Intermediate A racer and a great trail volunteer, but he has also donated his time and talent to design and create our metal podium awards for the 2023 and 2024 scramble seasons as well as the year end awards in 2023. These trophies have been coveted by groups across Canada who have contacted the office to ask, “Who made your fantastic awards?”. A big shout out to Protocase Inc., Justin’s employer, for supporting Justin’s commitment to producing these distinctive awards.

This year, NSORRA’s Kathleen Tobin, from Howie Centre, Cape Breton, was chosen to represent Canada in the Women’s Club Class of the FIM International 6 Days of Enduro (ISDE) – Spain, which took place in October 2024. NSORRA’s Justin Lewis, Scott Sampson and Neil Jennings travelled with Kathleen to support her in this ultimate test.

Time Crunch for Awards Creation

Because Justin was away and not able to assist us with our 2024 year-end awards, we returned to our membership for help. We wanted to create something to carry on the tradition of our one-of-a-kind trophies. Time was against us.

Matthew Purdy stepped up and offered to make a brander from a NSORRA logo steel template provided by President Josh Kelly. Test trials of branding, getting the temperature consistent and the wood texture right, proved challenging.

A Production Team is Created!

Then, one of our enduro rider members, Justin MacNeil, owner of Cutting Edge Applied Technology in Burnside, offered his laser engraver for the second round of testing. Many thanks to Justin for his time in setting up the correct dimensions for the layout of this year’s plaques. Justin’s engraving machine worked overtime for a week, burning images onto aspen plywood blanks.

As production continued, Josh picked up these rectangle-shaped pieces for the next stage. Long-time member of the motorcycle racing community, Johnnie Clark, cut out number-plate-shaped plaques on his bandsaw. Josh, Johnnie and Race Director Dave Tobin, spent many hours sanding and treating the raw wood to bring these awards to their finished grade.

The morning of the awards event, Josh and Executive Director Claudine Laforce added the name plates to each of the handmade plaques that were presented at the Soles In Motion-NSORRA Hare Scramble Series Awards that afternoon.

Prized Plaques

We would like to thank Justin Lewis of Protocase Inc. - Sydney, Justin MacNeil of Cutting Edge Applied Technology (CEAT) and Johnnie Clark for access to their skills and equipment used to create our distinctive 2024 awards.

As always, we encourage you to support those who support NSORRA!

Published: December 2024

NSORRA’s first club, Fundy Trail Dirtbike Club on Folly Mountain, hosted four NSORRA events this year.

1 - Debert Beginner Level Rec Ride - 5 May

The first event of the Rallye Motoplex-NSORRA Rec Ride season was a beginner level recreational ride in one of the most popular riding areas of the province - Debert. This was a great introduction to a beginner-friendly riding area.

Sixteen riders were divided into two groups based on bike size. Everyone enjoyed a well-marked 3.5 km loop on the sandy trails with multiple laps completed.

2 - Folly Mountain Intermediate Hard Enduro Rec Ride - 24 August

The second Rec Ride of the season was our most technically challenging.

The ride started with 16 riders - Pros and Joes. 11 Pros took to the woods led by Kyle Ledwidge. Pro guides Matthew Purdy, Darrell Luedey and Nick MacDonald led two Joes into the deep end. One Joe gave it his all then tapped out to save a bit for another day. 13 of 16 completed the entire ride including Cody MacKenna on his e-bike!

Conditions were perfect for the 4-hour ride that included a bonus hill climb. Congrats to Kyle Ledwidge on winning the award for the biggest send, trying a line that nobody else saw or wanted to try and congrats to Turk Tobin for being the only one to climb the bonus hill climb on the main line!

3 - Folly Mountain Intermediate Enduro Rec Ride - 22 September

We switched things up for our third and final recreational ride of the season at Folly Lake. We stayed in one group of 22 riders instead of dividing up into two groups based on speed.

We used the leapfrog approach where the second-place rider would get dropped at every intersection to show which way to go, then tucked in front of the sweep rider.

BBQ sponsored by RPM Cycle

Scott Josey, a former NSORRA President, led us through a mixture of single and double track to a tasty BBQ at his camp sponsored by RPM Cycle, always a strong NSORRA supporter.

A couple of barrel rolls down the bonus hill climb won Matthew Purdy a set of soft loop tie down straps donated by Mountain Lab Gear.

Thanks to Rallye Motoplex and Backman Heating and Cooling for sponsoring the NSORRA Rec Ride series this year!

4 - Wentworth Wilderness Area Work and Ride

Our last club event of the season was a Work and Ride in the Wentworth Wilderness Area.

NSORRA entered into an Off-Road Motorcycle Trail Management Agreement with the Province effective February 14, 2022. This agreement allows our members to ride on 16 important connector trails that cross wilderness areas. These trails include the trail that connects our NSORRA club, Fundy Trail Dirtbike Club, to the riding area used during the Folly Mountain Intermediate Enduro Rec Ride.

Under this agreement, NSORRA assumes responsibility for the management and maintenance of these trails.

See blog: NSORRA has signed an agreement for Nova Scotia Wilderness Areas

NSORRA members Alroy Chase, Chuck Graham, Aaron Little, Matthew Purdy, Cody MacKenna and Neil Jennings completed 28 hours of trail cutting on a cold wet day. Snacks and drinks were provided by NSORRA before the final ride of the day.

Sponsor Support

Thanks again to sponsors Rallye Motoplex and Backman Heating & Cooling for sponsoring this season’s rec rides, and Mountain Lab Gear for donating prizes.

Thanks also to our many volunteers, especially Matthew Purdy, for helping out with all of these events!

Neil Jennings is the NSORRA Recreational Ride Coordinator. If you have a trail area that you would like to invite NSORRA members to ride - from beginner to advanced - please reach out to him at Neil.Jennings@nsorra.ca

Published: November 2024

Demand for a Vintage class at NSORRA hare scrambles is growing.

The Race Committee met on January 14, 2024 to discuss the upcoming season. Among the topics was new rules for the Vintage bike race class. Subject matter expert, Nigel Brooks, is listening to input and has started to put together prospective rules for the class.

Prospective 2024 NSORRA Vintage Iron Class Regulations

• Any bike manufactured 1993 or prior
• Any bike from the “Any Model Year” list found below

Technical

• No bike equipped with conventional forks as stock - may be retrofitted with USD forks
• Bikes equipped with USD forks as stock, must be equipped with same or “as close to” stock
• Bikes manufactured prior to 1990 receive a one-minute per year race time allowance

Any Model Year List

• Honda XR200
• Honda XR250
• Honda XR600
• Honda XR650
• Kawasaki KDX250
• Suzuki DR350

Work in Progress

This is very much a work in progress and will likely need adjustments if and when the class gains momentum. For those interested, please don’t hesitate with suggestions or recommendations for the Any Model Year list. Contact Nigel Brooks at nigebrooks@yahoo.com

Previous Vintage Class Discussions

To review previous class discussions, go to:

Active Vintage Class at NSORRA hare scrambles

Vintage Dirt Bike Discussion - Part 2

We are stronger together. Every voice matters. Get involved and feed the dirt bike community with your passion!

Welcome to 2024. NSORRA volunteers are already planning an event schedule for the coming season. But as we take a look inwards, it’s important to reflect on what makes being a member of NSORRA important.

Participate and Build Community!

We encourage all of our members to participate in one, some, or all NSORRA events, ranging from training, to rec rides, to racing, to special events like our Drive to Ride and Women In Moto.

But if you choose not to do any, that’s okay, too.

NSORRA is More than Events

Buying an affordable membership to NSORRA is not simply so that you can attend events. Your membership fee plays a valuable part in financially supporting the protection of rideable space, the development of legal access, and the maintenance of that access that oftentimes we share with our OHV partners at ATVANS and SANS.

Membership is the mechanism that allows the OHV community to access money on members’ behalf to share in the development and maintenance of trail networks, build ride parks, become a national leader in offroad training and to keep our fees affordable by maintaining our not for profit and community principles.

Focus is Off Road Motorcycles (ORM)

As a registered provincial recreational organization, our principal focus is supporting off road motorcycles, be it in the categories of trail riding, hard enduro, trials, or even some dualsport activities.

NSORRA plays a pivotal role in building the network of support for the dirt bike community. Much of this support is from Nova Scotia businesses, both directly and indirectly involved in offroad motorcycles.

Contribute to the Greater Cause

If you are sitting on the fence as to whether or not it’s important to purchase a membership, just remember that your membership is a contribution to a greater cause. Don’t look at it as a prerequisite to participate.

Every membership helps make a difference and every member who volunteers makes even more of a difference. The Nova Scotia dirt bike community is filled with talented riders with passionate ideas. If we come together, we can keep growing this sport and making this community better and better every year.

See you on the trails!

Josh Kelly is President of the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association. He is passionate about all things two-wheeled including motorized, electric and mountain bikes. He is a coach, trainer, racer, trials, enduro, adventure bike rider and dirt bike dad.

Published: January 2024

The NSORRA Race Committee is hard at work putting things in place for the upcoming competitive season. As our participant numbers grow, one of the issues we have been encountering is several riders arriving on site with the same bike numbers.

We have been trying to make this work by allowing riders in classes with different start times to have the same number, but as riders progress and move to other classes, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep track of riders through Timing and Scoring.

As a result, the Race Committee has decided to restrict each rider to a distinct number (0-999).

If you are one that has a popular number, you may not get your first choice, so please provide three numbers ranked by preference to ed@nsorra.ca. We will contact you with the number you have been assigned from your three choices.

Next up? A change to classes for the 2021 season.

Please watch our website blogs and Facebook page for further changes to the way we are organizing the 2021 NSORRA hare scramble season.

Five hare scrambles, five rec rides, three days with Megs Braap, the Moto Show, the Drive to Ride and a fantastic Women in Moto event with 42 participants!

Ride Park Openings and Rec Rides

We had a relatively dry pre-season and were able to complete Work and Rides at all of our ride parks with the help of great volunteers from our NSORRA family. Thanks to the efforts of our new Trails Director, Stuart Buck, and his Triple S Cycle Works team (shout out to Steven Hussey for photos and videos!), along with NSORRA Trail coordinator, Susan Foote, we had regular rec rides at our Ride Parks in the Valley. It’s great to see increased use of these parks which are built and maintained by our members.

Return to Five Scrambles

The 2024 Race Committee decided it was time to get back to a five-scramble series, opening and closing the season in Craigmore which can pretty much stand up to any weather.

Knowing that a few racers missed out on awards last season because they missed one event, the Committee thought it would be a great idea to run five events but only count the top scores for four events. Well, that didn’t quite turn out as we expected…But more on that later.

#1 Craigmore Ride Park

The first race of the season was on May 25 at Craigmore. The park was in great shape and the course was set with extra challenges including a new start line which changed the flow of the event. Weather was on our side for early season camping and enjoying the outdoors. We had 111 racers registered; it was a good start to the season and great to see everyone back together.

#2 Mill Hill Ride Park

Race #2 was June 22 at Mill Hill. It was our first time back racing at this venue in five years. Race prep went well, and the trails were primed and fast. It was hot in the Valley, and Mill Hill brought the heat with 133 registered racers. That's a record for this location; people were stoked to get back racing at the Hill on a dusty, fast race course. Though Race Director, Dave Tobin, was away, a great team of volunteers stepped up to help out. A big shout out goes to Stewart Colquhoun, Steven Hussey and Mike Ritter along with Race co-Director Meagan Cairns. The vibes were great, and the race was a huge success.

#3 Beaver Ride Park

Race #3 was at Beaver Ride Park on July 27, and again we had the weather on our side. The trails were in good shape, and we added a few extra sections to keep riders guessing. We hosted 119 racers at Beaver’s this year. This venue is really a gem in the making; it's better every time we return.

The race had its excitement with another crazy start that went wrong for a few people. Luckily, there were no major injuries but in the mid-day group, a bunch of excited racers found themselves on the afternoon loop by accident, providing them with a more challenging course than expected. Stuff happens - it's racing. Luckily, most riders who ended up on the Expert loop were just pumped they got to experience the long loop.

#4 South Alton Ride Park

Race 4 was August 17 at South Alton. It was yet another Nova Scotia awesome weather weekend in the Valley. We had 104 registered racers and South Alton was in great shape, really quite dry. Richard and Steven Parkinson have been putting in a lot of work on the land and its showing. The race was really great, the course was fun, and the riders ate it up. The rock garden saw loads of action and we are happy to say it was just good old South Alton fun.

We made it a weekend with the Women in Moto event the next day at Mill Hill with 42 participants! Lots of fun with new t-shirts and 30 new NSORRA members!

#5 Craigmore Ride Park

Our last event of the season was on September 28 at Craigmore Creek. We landed early and set to work, trying to out-do our season opener race with 105 registered racers. The race course was expanded and well thought out by our own Josh Kelly. The added sections and length to the courses really challenged the racers.

The trail was set but the weather came for us for the first time this season. The course started out extremely dry, but it rained down on us onsite, and on the travelers heading our way. Thankfully there were no pre-race mishaps from the downpours on the highway.

Unfortunately, we had a race-day mishap in the worst place possible, and the mid-day races had to be scratched because of the time needed for extraction. We are happy to report that the affected racer is okay. Though we hire first responders for every event, we always hope to NOT need their expertise and equipment, but in those moments that they are needed, they shine and are much appreciated. A shout out to first responders Grant Lingley and David Kaplan, as well as several NSORRA volunteers who stepped up to help out.

The afternoon routes had all of Josh's extras in place and did it SHOW; some riders were so challenged that we had to reroute them around the rock garden which ended up being a parking lot by mid-race. But after that, the race played out and the racers shined. Great end to a great season.

Thanks to our Volunteers!

The annual Soles In Motion-NSORRA Hare Scramble Series Awards event marked the end of the 2024 racing season. We couldn’t have done it without the many volunteers who stepped forward to plan the events, prepare the trails, string the tape, jump in for timing and scoring, sweeping and the many other tasks needed to run a successful race series.

We are sending a special shout out to race volunteers: Annette and Cecil Sawler, Steven Hussey, David Kaplan, Todd and Tanya Nauss, Adam Greeley, Rod Conrad, Jamie and Adam Campbell, Cody MacKenna, Grant Lingley, Andrea Kelly, Susan Foote, Shannon Patterson, Barbara and Barret Ayres and others who we could count on when we needed them.

Thank you all for giving back to the sport you love. WE APPRECIATE YOU!

Planning for 2025

Though the 2024 race season has come to an end, plans are being made for 2025. Expect some big announcements in the new year. If you are interested in joining the 2025 Race Committee, please reach out to Meagan Cairns at meagan.cairns@nsorra.ca. We are restructuring the way our events will be run and we need your help to make things happen.

See you in 2025!

David Tobin has been NSORRA’s Race Director since 2019. He stepped down as Race Director at the end of the 2024 season. Many thanks for your dedication to growing NSORRA racing, Dave!

Published: November 2024

Nova Scotia Trails offered a free 2-day chainsaw safety training course to its member associations this season, and NSORRA took them up on their offer.

The course, led by chainsaw professional Kaesy Gladwin, was offered to trail maintainers in response to severe trail damage caused by Hurricane Fiona when it hit Nova Scotia in Fall 2023. NSORRA was pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to eight of its volunteers.

Day 1

Late fall and the temperatures were chilly when participants gathered on Saturday, 26 October 2024. Greg Young, from NS Trails, was on site to welcome everyone and introduce their instructor for the weekend, Kaesy Gladwin. An avid trail builder, Kaesy has extensive experience working in the forestry and mining industries and participates in many recreational outdoor activities. The group was keen to learn that he is also a dirtbike rider!

Members spent the morning bundled up and sitting in the classroom – a cold barn – learning all about Nova Scotia chainsaw regulations, noting that each province has their own set of guidelines to be followed. Each participant was provided with a large kit for the weekend. They reviewed the components and what pieces are required to be on your person when handling a chainsaw. The instructor explained the PPE ratings and how to make sure safety equipment meets Nova Scotia standard and is not expired. Participants will all be looking at their safety gear with new eyes from this day forward!!

Participants reviewed brake use, basic cutting techniques, various hinges and tree responses, parts of the bar and when and how (and when not) to use them. The group was able to ask questions, share challenges they have come across on the trail, and discuss safe ways to proceed when trail clearing.

Putting learning to Practice

In the afternoon, the group moved outside with their saws for some hands-on practice. Each participant put on their chainsaw chaps, PPE helmet and gloves and installed one of the 4’ logs provided into their stands. They received demonstrations on proper starting techniques and how to warm up cold saws - then it was their turn!! The instructor acknowledged that this is the nerve wrecking part for him, when eight saws get started and it's time to go!

Everyone successfully started their saws and practiced which safe starting technique worked best for them. Participants were then shown the maximum cutting height for their stance and practiced using their push and pull sides of the chain to shorten logs and then worked at creating as near perfect hinges as possible.

The instructor worked around the group, pointing out safety issues that needed correction and providing advice on hinges. Participants then moved on to back cuts, perfecting the technique and comfort of working on each side of the log. They also learned plunge cuts, relief cuts and using wedges to fell trees. Participants gained lots of confidence and saw handling skills in a controlled environment.

Day 2

Sunday morning activities started promptly at 9am, with coffee in hand for morning classroom time in the near freezing barn. The instructor started the session with a full review of what participants had learned the day prior, then they pulled out their saws for beginner maintenance training.

After demos, participants attempted each skill including: removed their bar covers; safely remove the bar and chain from the machine; what to look for and how to inspect their chain and bar for damages and wear; and how to repair them and when they should be replaced.

Diving deeper into the saw body, participants removed the clutch cover and carefully inspected the needle bearing before removing it. They thoroughly cleaned the clutch housing, greased the needle bearing and reassembled their saws. The instructor gave pointers and tips for each participant to be successful, providing parameters for service frequency and replacements. Participants reinstalled their bar and chain, learning to properly tighten and adjust the chain as they went.

Next came the important skill of sharpening. Many in the group had some knowledge of how to sharpen a saw, but it turned out each participant had some new skills to learn!! They all completed their saw sharpening and were rewarded with another satisfying lunch.

Hitting the Woods with Chainsaws in Hand

In the afternoon, they moved outside, and everyone fueled and added bar oil to their machines. Participants pulled on their PPE and were excited (and proud) to be directed to the neighboring woods with saws in hand. The instructor had previously marked trees which presented various scenarios that could be encountered, and each tree became an opportunity for discussion. The instructor demonstrated some of the techniques participants had learned the day before, like using shallow hinges on a bent tree and showed them the control and ease it provided to bring down a tricky tree.

Participants moved to a stand of saplings and each independently demonstrated the safe way to cut saplings with the instructor providing suggestions or improvements. It was the first field test, and all participants were successful. They moved on to limbing practice and observed the instructor fell a few problematic trees, demonstrating the safe use of wedges.

Participants used various trees for discussion learning how to deal with each type of tree if they encountered them when trail clearing. This was very insightful, and all participants took away new safe techniques to put into practice. The afternoon included discussion, questions and answers and then time followed by a group photo to celebrate the learning team.

Wrap Up

Overall, it was a very full weekend of learning. All participants walked away with new skills and a better understanding of safe cutting techniques. Kaesy made the class fun and practical and participants are eager to take the Chainsaw Level 2 Course! We hope to offer more courses like this to NSORRA volunteers next season.

Susan Foote is NSORRA’s Trails and Admin Coordinator (partially funded by Moto Canada). She and her husband, Patrick, are experienced trail builders who are enjoying the opportunity to grow their trail building skills!

Published: November 2024

NSORRA is hosting a Work and Ride in the Wentworth Wilderness Area on Sunday, November 17.

NSORRA entered into an Off-Road Motorcycle Trail Management Agreement with the Province of Nova Scotia effective February 14, 2022. This agreement allows our members to ride on 16 important connector trails that cross wilderness areas. These trails include the trail that connects our NSORRA club, Fundy Trails Snowmobile Club (FTSC), to the riding area used during the Folly Mountain Intermediate Enduro Rec Ride.

Under this agreement, NSORRA assumes responsibility for the management and maintenance of these trails.

See blog: NSORRA has signed an agreement for Nova Scotia Wilderness Areas

Details

NSORRA and our club at the FTSC (84 Lafarge Lane, Folly Lake, NS), will leave from the clubhouse at 10:00 a.m. The main work will be trimming branches so bring your loppers and saws. NSORRA Rec Ride Coordinator Neil Jennings will transport tools and supplies to the trailhead. From there each participant will need to carry tools on their bikes for a few kilometers to the work area.

Snacks and drinks will be provided at lunchtime then we will get out for a ride!

Please sign up on the NSORRA events page so we know how many people to expect.

Published: 6 November 2024

The 2024 Hare Scramble season was a challenging one.

Pre-season Decision

Pre-season, the Race Committee met and reviewed the hare scramble schedule. During the 2023 season, several racers dropped out of awards contention because they had to miss a scramble for personal reasons or injury. With five scrambles scheduled for 2024, we decided to offer a "best 4 of 5" to allow for more competitive classes and to give the best riders a fair chance.

We have since decided that this wasn't the best idea, because of reasons we could not have predicted: the Beaver Ride Park mid-day scramble races went sideways with several racers going the wrong way, and the Craigmore race was a wash for all mid-day classes as a result of a major accident.

How to Reduce Class Size?

Next, we decided to break up the Intermediate B class after the first 2024 scramble because it was too big. In order not to mess up the Timing and Scoring system by adding a new class, we decided to change the non-competitive Sportsman class to competitive for Scramble 2 going forward.

Unfortunately, the timing & scoring system, when computing overall results, did not skip the non-competitive race 1 for Sportsman so incorrect results were released. On top of this, the timing & scoring system eliminated racers from the series who did not receive any points. These were both fixed and now show in the system correctly.

It was a comedy of errors, but not something to be laughed at. NSORRA race volunteers have literally put in HOURS of volunteer time to try to straighten out the results, while fielding (sometimes angry) questions and discussions from racers.

Decision

After much discussion, the race committee decided to stick with the original commitment of scoring the 4 highest points of the 5 scrambles held for all classes. Because Craigmore #5 was unscored for the mid-day classes, the first 4 scrambles are the 4 highest scores. For Sportsmen, the class was not deemed competitive until Scramble 2, thus it will be scored on top 3 scores of 4 scrambles. Again, because of Craigmore #5 being unscored for mid-day, Scrambles 2-4 are the top 3 scores.

2024 Soles In Motion-NSORRA Hare Scramble Championship Results

Closing off the 2024 Season

Please know that postseason, we will be meeting to plan the 2025 season and we will have some major changes to make that we hope will make things better for all.

So to our fantastic race volunteers and hare scramblers, we send out a huge thank you for your support. We are doing our best to make things right. Not everyone will be happy no matter what we do, but know that we are putting forward our best effort.

Signed,

The 2024 NSORRA Race Committee

We switched things up a bit this year for our final recreational ride of the season at Folly Lake. We stayed in one group of 22 riders instead of dividing up into two groups based on speed.

We used the leapfrog approach where the second-place rider would get dropped at every intersection to show which way to go then tucked in front of the sweep rider. This system worked perfectly until Matthew Purdy had to go to the back. He used this opportunity to brush up on his passing skills. Everyone else got a taste of roost and Matthew took a nice soil sample.

BBQ sponsored by RPM Cycle

Scott Josey led us through a mixture of single and double track to a tasty BBQ at his camp sponsored by RPM Cycle, always a strong NSORRA supporter.

Cody MacKenna skillfully determined that his e-bike had just enough battery left to make it back to the trucks so seven of us took a leisurely ride back. He made it over 50km with 3% charge remaining!

When the main group finished their ride, Matthew still didn't have enough, so we hit the hard enduro loop. A couple barrel rolls down the bonus hill climb won Matthew a set of soft loop tie down straps donated by Mountain Lab Gear.

Thanks!

Thanks to the volunteers who prepped the trails and Dave Tobin and Rod Conrad for sweep riding!

Thanks to Rallye Motoplex and Backman Heating and Cooling for sponsoring the NSORRA Rec Ride series this year!

Neil Jennings is the NSORRA Recreational Ride Coordinator. If you have a trail area that you would like to invite NSORRA members to ride - from beginner to advanced - please reach out to him at Neil.Jennings@NSORRA.ca

Nova Scotian Kathleen Tobin has been selected to join the Canadian Women’s Club Team representing Team Canada at the 2024 International Six Days Enduro Race (ISDE) in Spain in October.

First Nova Scotian Woman in the Event

Tobin is the first woman from Nova Scotia to participate in the race on Team Canada. She will join fellow Nova Scotian, Tyler Medaglia, who will be competing as part of the Canadian World Trophy Team.

The ISDE Six Days Race is the longest-running event of its kind, beginning over a century ago in 1913. This challenging race demands between 1,200 km and 1,600 km from competitors over six days.

The race has strict rules and time allowances that will test each riders’ abilities from riding, to doing their own mechanical repairs, including tire changes. “I have been practicing tire changes for months to make sure I can do them as quickly as possible,” says Kathleen.

Getting the Invite

Tobin reached out to the event's organizers, curious about the race and the team selection process.

“Mario, organizer of the ISDE, mentioned that he was talking to Tyler Medaglia, a well-known rider/racer from Truro, who is also representing Canada,” explains Kathleen. “He mentioned they talked about my riding abilities and Tyler said I would be a fantastic addition to their team.”

With her surprise invite, Kathleen went to work and researched the race and what is needed, what kind of training is required, bike rental, tools and so much more.

It Takes a Village

It takes a village to make a dream come true, and Tobin has an amazing one.

“I have such an amazing support team around me on and off the bike. There is a crew of us that try to meet up at least three times a week to ride some of the tougher terrain pushing our limits on every ride.”

The group consists of her brother, Turk Tobin, her mechanic, Justin Lewis, and Bob Thorne. Recently, she added NSORRA Rec Ride Coordinator, Neil Jennings, to her travel team.

“My best support member is my boyfriend Scott Sampson who listens to me tell every detail of the ride or of the races or any injuries,” said Tobin.

She also has a very supportive crew behind her from the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association (NSORRA) for which Tobin is an ambassador. Association members have been donating at various events to help Tobin reach her goal.

Help Kathleen Tobin Represent Team Canada in Spain!

With the race being so far from home, Tobin’s pit crew set up a GoFundMe to help her with costs, which are now topping $20,000. They have raised just over $8,000 of the $15,000 goal.

If you are able to contribute, Kathleen’s online fundraising page can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/kathleentobinteamcanada

A small but mighty group took on the challenge of the Rallye Motoplex - NSORRA Folly Hard Enduro Rec Ride held in early August.

Host Neil Jennings gives a summary of the ride

The ride started with 16 riders - Pros and Joes. 11 Pros took to the woods led by Kyle Ledwidge. Pro guides Matthew Purdy, Darrell Luedey and Nick MacDonald led two Joes into the deep end. One Joe gave it his all then tapped out to save a bit for another day. 13 of 16 completed the entire ride including Cody MacKenna on his e-bike!

Conditions were perfect for the 4-hour ride that included a bonus hill climb. Congrats to Kyle Ledwidge on winning the award for the biggest send, trying a line that nobody else saw or wanted to try. Congrats to Turk Tobin for being the only one to climb the bonus hill climb on the main line!

Kyle Ledwidge took home a fanny pack toolkit and Turk Tobin (below) landed a dry bag donated by Mountain Lab Gear

Thanks to sponsors Rallye Motoplex and Backman Heating & Cooling for sponsoring this season’s rec rides, Mountain Lab Gear for donating prizes and to Neil Jennings for hosting this event!

Folly will also be the site of the last NSORRA rec ride for season. Riders will meet at the Fundy Trail Snowmobile Club on Sunday, September 22. For more information and to register, go to https://nsorra.ca/events.

The gang's all here at the Folly Hard Enduro

The Cape Breton crew came to train, including Kathleen Tobin who is competing at the ISDE 6 days of Spain in October along with Justin Lewis and Neil who will be part of her support team.

The first two-day Yarmouth rec ride was a great success, providing both challenge and fun.

Day 1 – Saturday, September 7

14 participants, some local and some from away, gathered on Ride Day 1 with hopes that the weather forecast would come true. The rain began to break just in time for the ride to begin. The morning was filled with wet trails but the group persevered and traversed railroad track, logging roads, single tracks, and made their way to the motocross track.

Everyone had a chance to do some laps on the motocross track, despite the track being soft and muddy from the rain. The ride group headed back for lunch with the sun peeking out, and enjoyed a barbecue provided by our Yarmouth hosts.

Saturday afternoon was filled with single track, double track, downhill trails and some technical hill climbs. The group gathered at the bottom of the big hill climbs to watch everyone attempt to get to the top. The day ended with a short segment of optional technical enduro, before riders headed back at the unload location.

Day 2 – Sunday, September 8

Nine participants began Day 2 with some navigational issues and drizzle. The ride group visited several landmarks including Balancing Rock, Electric City, Snowman’s Corner and a dried up lake bed. A brief history lesson was given at the New France Electric City stop.

The group enjoyed lunch at the sand pit just outside of the New France settlement, and then proceeded to the lake bed. The lake bed offered something for everyone; the sand bars were great for those who wanted to take it easy, while the large rocks and boulders were great for those who wanted an extreme enduro challenge. In total, Day 2 covered 74 km of trail, roads and lakes.

Thanks to NSORRA Rec Ride Sponsors Rallye Motoplex and Backman Heating and Cooling whose sponsorship allowed us to offer this new recreational ride at no additional charge to our members.

Building comraderie with new riding friends

Many of the riders from away had a blast experiencing new riding areas, and expressed interest in having this event turn into an annual rec ride. The organizers would like to thank NSORRA and all of the participants who came and made this event a great success. We hope to see you all again in the near future!

Additional photos from the event can be viewed HERE.

Nick Cottreau is a new NSORRA member from Yarmouth County. After competing in NSORRA hare scrambles, Nick invited his new riding friends to join him and his local riding group to try rec riding in the west end of the province. We plan to make these rides an annual event!

This event is not just about riding—it's about community, empowerment, and a whole lot of fun.

We invite women riders of all levels to Mill Hill ORM Park for a day packed with adventure and camaraderie at the Pro Cycle-NSORRA Women In Moto event. From 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday, August 18, join us for an unforgettable experience where passion meets skill, and where friendships are forged on the trails and MX track.

A day packed with excitement!

We are offering two 90-minute introduction to dirt bikes sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This session is perfect for beginners who want to learn the basics of riding, with bikes and gear provided. It's the ideal opportunity to dip your toes into the world of off-road biking in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Trail riding will be open all day with trail guides offered as needed on the smooth, flowy trails of NSORRA's Mill Hill Ride Park. We'll also be playing some games - with great prizes!

Intro and Advanced MX training

For those looking to advance their skills, we're thrilled to offer both beginner and intermediate MX skill courses led by the talented Lexi Helgason. Lexi has been riding since she was 7 and started racing when she was 10. She’s won three championships including one in Quebec at the ECAN. Lexi races for Wide Open Racing who she’s been with since 2017. She currently rides a 2022 KTM 250sxf and races in both the Ladies class and MX3 Junior. Lexi hopes to one day ride at MX207 or in the US.

The beginner MX course focuses on foundational skills like proper form, standing up on the bike, and mastering corners and jumps. It's designed to build confidence and competence in newer riders, setting a strong groundwork for their MX journey.

The advanced MX course takes riders deeper into the intricacies of motocross. Lexi will guide participants through techniques such as starts, navigating ruts, tackling bigger jumps, and even practicing on sandy terrain. It's the perfect opportunity for experienced riders to refine their MX skills and take their riding to the next level.

2023 Women In Moto participants

More Than Just Riding

In addition to the thrilling courses, the Women In Moto event offers a chance to connect with other female riders and celebrate our shared passion. Explore the trails at Mill Hill ORM Park, challenge yourself on the MX track, and enjoy the exhilaration of riding alongside a supportive community of women who share your enthusiasm.

And let's not forget the delicious BBQ lunch included with your registration, ensuring you stay fueled and ready for the day's activities. Plus, each participant will receive an exclusive event t-shirt—a perfect memento to commemorate this special day.

Join Us at Mill Hill ORM Park

Ready to be part of this incredible event? Registration is now open at nsorra.ca/events. Secure your spot today and get ready for a day filled with adventure, learning, and the joy of riding.

Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer, the Pro Cycle-NSORRA Women In Moto event promises an unforgettable experience. Join us at Mill Hill ORM Park and discover why this event is not just about riding—it's about celebrating the spirit of women in moto.

For more information and to register, visit nsorra.ca/events. Don't miss out on this opportunity to ride, connect, and celebrate with us. See you there!

Have you attended similar events before? What are you most excited about for the Women In Moto event? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!

Riders ready to improve their dirt biking skills were happy to see the return of Megan Griffiths, aka Megs Braap, to Nova Scotia.

Megan first came to the province during the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 and drew riders from around the Maritimes who were eager to learn enduro skills. Since that time, riders have been asking when she would return and she was happy to fulfil a request from NSORRA to make an East Coast swing through the Maritimes this season.

This time, Megs offered Enduro 1.0 and Enduro 2.0 clinics to help riders take their riding to the next level. She started by covering the important technical points that riders don’t often take the time to focus on, and then build from there throughout the day.

Just Do A Freakin’ Wheelie!

When asked about the clinic, Alex Garnett, a participant in the Enduro 1.0 – Women Only day says, “A highlight for me was when I nailed three wheelies in a row when practicing one of the drills. It made me really want to get out and practice applying that in the trails. Megs really broke everything down in easy to digest ways, and motivated me to get back to doing more intentional practice.”

Megs posted a recap of her Nova Scotia training on her social media page.

Nova Scotia enduro clinics recap in Megs’ words

I just finished three days of teaching in beautiful Economy, NS. I did a Co-ed Enduro 1.0, an All-Women’s Enduro 1.0, and a Co-ed Enduro 2.0 class.

My classes are all about having full control of your bike. Body position is a huge part of that, and we go into great detail with this in both courses. We do all sorts of drills that really focus on all aspects of control (clutch, throttle, brake etc.).

In the Enduro 1.0 classes we worked on full lock turns, advanced clutch and throttle control, balance, high speed braking and acceleration, suspension compressions, wheelies, logs, and more!

In the Enduro 2.0 class we homed in on clutch, throttle, and brake control with some field drills, and then took it to the woods for real life scenarios on the trails. We also covered an array of log crossings methods. Log punch, double blip, angled/slippery log crossings, log pivots, and log recovery. Ooh and let’s not forget corner track training.

Enduro 1.0 - Women Only

Big thanks to Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association for hosting me! You guys are an amazing club and I’m happy to have been part of your events list this year! Also, thanks to NSORRA Training Director, Mike Ritter, for helping me out all weekend, and for all the riders who signed up and came out to train with me.

Thanks to The Shack by Liberty CC for sponsoring the clinics, and to Mitch Hill for attending the Women Only Enduro 1.0 and taking these photos!

Since 2008, it has been law for dirt bike riders operating off their own land (or closed range course like NSORRA parks or moto tracks) to obtain a Dirt Bike Basic Safety Training course.

Why Take a Training Course?

Nova Scotia’s Dirt Bike School

NSORRA is Nova Scotia’s exclusive provider of dirt bike basic safety training.

Training required under NS OHV Act

Since 2008, the province of Nova Scotia has mandated that riders:

1. acquire certified basic dirt bike safety training
2. register their bikes, and
3. carry a minimum of third party liability insurance.

(See the NS OHV Riders Handbook)

So what’s involved?

Dirt Bike Basic Safety Training is a one-day commitment. Our courses generally start first thing in the morning and run 5 to 6 hours. The course is a proven and progressive building of knowledge and comfortability, leading to a great foundation for trail-readiness and safe handling of your dirt bike.

How much does it cost for the day?

NSORRA’s Dirt Bike School is a fully accredited, certified and, insured program. The cost is $200 per person and includes a certified, experienced rider coach in a small class size for the best experience. Successful participants receive their Certificate of Completion as proof of NS OHV Act Basic Safety Training compliance.

Who can ride an off-highway motorcycle in Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotians 6 years-of-age and older may operate an OHV, however specific conditions must be met particularly around safety training, riders under 16 years-of-age, and for OHV rallies.

To legally operate an OHV in Nova Scotia many operators must obtain a safety training certificate.

For more information click here

Training courses will be listed on our events page. You must be a NSORRA member to take the course (http://nsorra.ca then click on Become A Member).

For more information, check out https://nsorra.ca/article/nova-scotias-dirt-bike-school.

Training location in the Halifax area

Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association’s Women in Moto Event: A Recreation Nova Scotia Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Promising Practice/Success Story

August’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility (EDIA) success story comes from the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association (NSORRA), which is making tracks when it comes to increasing gender equity in the sport of dirt biking, traditionally a male-dominated sport.

The Women in Moto event will occur at Mill Hill ORM Park in the Annapolis Valley from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on August 18, 2024. It will be a jam- packed day for individuals who identify as female and want to either try dirt biking for the first time, increase their current skill level, or share their passion for riding with other women. The event is being sponsored by Pro Cycle and Honda Canada.

Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association Executive Director, Claudine Laforce, says that women rarely put themselves first, which has been a problem when organizing events in the past, “Women often have to work around the schedules of others such as their kids, partners or events [volunteering]. They have a hard time dedicating a day to themselves to have fun.”

Claudine says that providing a safe, relaxed environment for women to try the sport is NSORRA’s ultimate goal, “Women are often intimidated to get on a dirt bike. They don't want to do it in front of men in case they have challenges. This event is for women, by women, which makes a big difference!”

The event will include two 90-minute introductions to dirt bike sessions for beginners who want to learn the riding basics. Equipment will be provided. Women can dip their toes into the world of off-road biking in a safe, welcoming and supportive environment. Trail riding will be open, and trail guides will be offered as needed.

There will also be an opportunity for women to increase their skill level in a skills course. There will be both a beginner and intermediate MX skill course led by three-time champion rider Lexi Helgason. Lexi started riding when she was seven years old and has competed since she was ten.

Claudine has some advice for organizations looking to plan programs to promote gender equity, “Form a committee, promote the event as early as possible, and spread the news by word of mouth. Invite people to participate.”

She says that drawing from other female riders has been successful. “When women have an opportunity to get together, there is always fun to be had. We understand each other and share our knowledge and experience with each other.”

In addition to the skills workshop and trail riding opportunities, the Women in Moto event will feature a BBQ lunch, games and prizes, an exclusive event t- shirt, and, most importantly, an opportunity for female riders to connect, support each other, and celebrate their shared passion.

For more information and to register, visit https://nsorra.ca/events

Pushing yourself physically and mentally during what is arguably one of the toughest sports we know of can prove to be rewarding. NSORRA is dedicated to growing the racing community in Nova Scotia.

There are many tiers and levels to race. We always suggest riding with a group you’re comfortable with - and we’re everywhere on race day if you’re looking to figure out which group you should be lining up with.

Racing requires a healthy bike and body as well as a respect for other riders and the facilities we use for racing. Racing is really a family sport and we love seeing families at our events.

Maritime Trials Riders

In addition, NSORRA hosts a series of Motorcycle Trials events. For more information on the fun sport of Trials, check out the Maritime Trials Riders at this link: https://nsorra.ca/maritime-trials-riders

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8u0ZmPIPw6g&t=89s

Our Events calendar is updated as events are finalized based on weather and conditions.

See below for the planned schedule for the year

Race Classes

All the morning youth classes are arranged in age groups, making it fairly easy to figure out what class you should be in, as well as knowing the minimum bike requirements for that class. The series is structured to allow a child to enter and progress naturally as their age, skills and bike size increases. Mixed classes include: PeeWee, School Kid, Super Mini. Girls 14+ can race Junior (1 hour class) with the boys or jump up to the morning women’s class (90 minutes).

The new morning Sportsman class is generally considered to be the entry level competitive class for anyone older than the morning Junior class. The one-hour competitive class is also for anyone who doesn’t fit into one of the youth classes and who wants to try out a race to see where they should go in a more competitive class. To be fair to all participants, if you enter this class and have a dominant performance (lapping everyone else), you will be removed from the class and not scored in the finish. You will also be automatically moved up to the next class for any future racing. This is NOT the class to enter if you have or are currently racing motocross.

Intermediate B is a step up from Sportsman. If you are a regular woods rider who can ride at a steady pace for longer rides but are new to racing, this is a good place for you to start. If you enter this class and have a dominant performance (lapping everyone else), you will be removed from that class and not scored in the finish, then automatically moved up to the next class for any future racing.

Intermediate A is a good starting point for any past or present motocross riders and experienced, fast woods riders. This is a 2-hour race.

Plus 50 is an age-restricted class of competitive and skilled riders. It runs 1 hours, 45 minutes.

Expert class is where you go if you’ve raced motocross for a number of years or raced other off-road series and were very competitive. This class is for top riders and is appropriately challenging. The race runs for 2.5 hours and requires good stamina.

Video of Beaver Ride Park Scramble by Matthew Jollymore.

The yearly calendar can be found on the RESOURCES tab at https://nsorra.ca/resources

For event registration, go to https://nsorra.ca/events

NSORRA members have been invited to ride the trails in the Southwestern part of the province during two ride days in September.

Day 1 – Saturday, September 7

The first ride day will begin just outside Yarmouth on a network of single track, double track, motocross track, downhill mountain bike track and hill climbs. The ride will be intermediate level, with some more difficult/challenging sections. All of the more challenging sections are optional; riders do not need to pass through these obstacles to complete the course.

There is approximately 18 km of trail, with some connections via the Rails to Trails system. The total ride length is 25-35 km, depending on pit stops at each location. The riding areas are spread out, but interconnected via the trail network.

Much of the single-track weaves through trees along soft terrain and ridge lines, some fast-paced, some slower and more technical. Double track consists mainly of old ATV and tractor roads though additional trail will be cut leading up to the event which may replace some of this portion.

The motocross track is a medium-sized track built out of hardpan in a woodlot. It features tabletops, step-ups, step-downs and rhythm sections. The mountain bike section is a network of fast pace downhill trails featuring jumps and banked turns.

There is plenty of space for parking/unloading. We will return to the parking area mid-ride for refueling, lunch/water breaks, as the parking area is in the middle of the ride areas.

Check out this YouTube video showing a few clips of the ride area.

Day 2 – Sunday, September 8

Touring the backwoods of Yarmouth & Digby counties will be the focus of Day 2. The area consists of flowy double track and ATV roads connecting several landmarks. There are various points of interest along the proposed route, such as New France (known as Electric City, the first place in Nova Scotia to have electricity), the balancing rock, and a series of dams & lakes which offer interesting ride terrain.

This ride is considered low-level intermediate, with all of it rideable by street and trail bikes (dualsports). The total length of the ride is upwards of 70 km. There is plenty of parking space to unload. Bring a light lunch with you as we will not be returning to the unload area until the end of the ride.

Future Riding

A large portion of the Day 1 trails are on private land (either owned by members of our riding group, or built with permission from the owners). These trails are on a “ride with permission” basis only.

The Day 2 trails are open year-round. If you plan to attempt these trails on your own, we recommend using a GPS, as there are many logging roads which look similar and can be confusing if you do not know the area well.

All riders should have registration & insurance since we will be travelling on some of the rails to trails which require this paperwork.

To register for either or both of the rides, please go to the NSORRA Events page at https://nsorra.ca/events

IMPORTANT NOTE: If the Saturday Ride must be cancelled for any reason, it will be rescheduled for Sunday and the scheduled Sunday ride may be postponed.

The 2024 Rallye Motoplex-NSORRA Recreational Ride Series kicked off on May 5 in one of the oldest established riding areas in the province – Debert.

This area is popular for all levels of riders, but the first rec ride of the season focussed on introducing beginner riders to this wonderful riding area. A warm and dry day created perfect riding conditions.

Sixteen riders enjoyed a 3.5 km loop, on the sandy trails with multiple laps completed. The 16 were put in two groups; one on smaller bikes and one on bigger bikes, so that everyone could ride at their own pace. It was a great intro ride to the season.

August 10 – Big Bike Friendly Ride from Debert

The next event in the series is scheduled for August 10th starting in Debert. This ride will be suitable for full-sized dirt bikes, adventure bikes and everything in between in an attempt to bridge the gap between other NSORRA rec rides and adventure rides organized by other groups.

Participants need to be able to ride at speed on logging roads and be able to cross some challenging ATV and snowmobile trails during this intermediate-level ride. This will be a backcountry ride taking in a number of scenic areas including rivers, lakes, lookoffs, bridges, a waterfall and even a castle!

You need to be self-sufficient and carry enough fuel, snacks, drinks and tools for the first 100 km leg of the journey to Folly Mountain. A support vehicle will transport your gas and food to this turnaround point, then back to Debert.

The afternoon ride will be a bit shorter, but this will be an all-day event.

August 24 – Hard Enduro Recreational Ride at Folly Mountain

We will be returning to Folly Mountain for the same hard enduro rec ride as last year. If you are used to riding hard enduro in steep terrain in first and second gear, this is the ride for you. A good rear tire, low pressure and a fan will help. Guides will focus on helping improve your riding techniques instead of just pulling you up hills.

The ride will begin and end at the Fundy Trail Snowmobile Club (FTSC). Although the trail will be well marked, you should ride in groups so that you will have help on the tougher sections when the groups get spread out. The same trail will be used in two directions – one for intermediate and one for advanced riders. It will be easy to call it a day at any point on the ride, just make sure to tell one of the organizers that you are done; they will get you out to an easy ride back to the clubhouse.

September 7-8: A Two-day Ride in Yarmouth

NSORRA has teamed up with a group of local riders headed by Nick Cottreau, to ride a new-to-NSORRA part of the province. Organizers have laid out a fun weekend in the Yarmouth area.

Day 1 will include a network of single track, double track, motocross track, downhill mountain bike track and hill climbs. The ride will be intermediate level, with some optional advanced sections.

Day 2 ride (weather, interest & time pending) will be a tour of the backwoods of Yarmouth & Digby counties. The area consists of flowy double track and ATV roads connecting several interesting landmarks. This ride will be low level intermediate in difficulty.

It is recommended that riders have registration & insurance since we will be travelling on some of the rails to trails.

September 21st – Intermediate Enduro Rec Ride at Folly Mountain

This NSORRA rec ride season closer will consist of fast, flowy single and double track trails. Since this ride is usually popular, participants will be divided into two groups based on abilities. Riders will visit Annandale Falls and the Deer Rock Lookoff. You will also have a chance to take a shot at the Pine Climb (though it’s mostly hemlock!).

Rec Ride Sponsors

A shout out to sponsors Rally Motoplex and Backman Heating and Cooling for making these recreational rides possible. We ask that you support these sponsors in return by bringing your business to them!

We are looking forward to this exciting new opportunity to connect with our community. So get your NSORRA memberships, grab your family and friends, and join us for some fun riding!!

Neil Jennings is the NSORRA Recreational Ride Coordinator. If you have a trail area that you would like to invite NSORRA members to ride - from beginner to advanced - please reach out to him at Neil.Jennings@NSORRA.ca

Mill Hill Motocross and Off Road Motorcycle Park has a motocross track and a great selection of trails.

NSORRA members can ride the trails for free from Monday-Saturday during the riding season. Mill Hill is closed on Sundays except for special events. The property is not gated and no special permission is required to access the park.

Access to the motocross track is managed separately by the landowner.

Mill Hill trails are a mix of wide flowy and tighter more technical trails with some fun hill climbs. There is riding here for all skill levels. These dirt trails are a lot of fun to ride on!

Mill Hill is about 20 km by road (shorter as the crow flies of course) north-west of Wolfville in the Annapolis Valley. 1001 Bains Road, Canning, NS in your gps will get you there. The roads are good the entire way. When you see the sign at the park entrance proceed several hundred metres in the driveway and take the right at the intersection. The driveway goes through private property and the owner has requested that visitors travel no faster then 10 kph entering the park. Follow the driveway past the motocross track on the left and park in the field. The trails start up at the northwest corner of the field.

The latitude and longitude is 45.1689051, -64.4856064

Join the Mill Hill Facebook group for more info https://www.facebook.com/groups/454916745256106

VIDEO

Want to know what it's like to race a scramble at Mill Hill? Check out this video by NSORRA member Matthew Jollymore from the 2024 Mill Hill Scramble.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QexNd-twoVA

South Alton Park is located down the Annapolis Valley, just off Highway 101 exit 13 near Kentville.

There are beginner, intermediate and advanced trails to play on. This park has some hills and varied terrain. An NSORRA membership is required to ride the park.

There is a large parking area and an outhouse.

During the riding season this park can be used any time although you may find a closed gate at the entrance to discourage non-members from using the property. If the gate is locked, the trails are closed.

Latitude and Longitude of South Alton Park 44.999615,-64.526912

Videos from the 2018 hare scramble races at South Alton Park taken by racers follow below:

Directions to the South Alton Park

Take Hwy101 to exit 13 and turn left at the end of the off-ramp.

Take Highway 12 head south, in the direction of New Ross.

The Park is on the left approximately 6.3 kms from taking the exit. It is a long dirt road with trees on the left with no signage.

If you pass Shaffer's Towing you have gone too far.

Would you like to race a 1-hour competitive hare scramble? Did you finish out of the points in Intermediate B at the Craigmore hare scramble? If you answered YES to BOTH of these questions or you are new to hare scrambles, we have the class for you!

“The Race Committee has been looking at ways to reduce the number of riders on the line for our Intermediate B class without disrupting the race order,” says NSORRA Race Director, David Tobin. “We realized that several riders would prefer to run a competitive 1-hour race. Our best option, since the season has already started, is to switch Sportsman from a non-competitive class to a competitive class.”

“This is a test run and we are looking for feedback from racers,” adds Tobin. “Based on feedback and registration, we may add another class and return Sportsman to a non-points class next season.”

GREAT NEWS! Scoring 4 out of 5 Scrambles

For the 2024 season, NSORRA is taking the best four results from each racer during the season to put towards the championship series rankings. In previous seasons, if you missed a scramble, you usually lost the chance to place. This opens it up to riders to stay competitive even if they miss a race or if they don’t have a good result at one scramble.

“Now is the perfect time to introduce another competitive class, because there are still 4 scrambles remaining,” says Tobin. “We are hoping this will provide an opportunity for riders that don’t have enough seat time during the season to go for 90 minutes in the Intermediate B or Women’s race to still come out and compete in a 1-hour race.”

The next 2024 Soles In Motion-NSORRA hare scramble is on June 22 at Mill Hill Ride Park in the Annapolis Valley. It will be followed on Sunday by the annual Drive to Ride - a free ride event for our members.

REGISTER NOW

Published: 12 June 2024

Drive to Ride is NSORRA’s annual membership drive and a chance for us to have fun with all of our members.

We are returning to Mill Hill ORM Park, a beautiful, fun-to-ride park that includes an MX track and great trails as well as a wonderful area for camping and sponsor booths.

Register now!

Eassons Powersports is the New Event Sponsor

Eassons Powersports (formerly Park Street RV) is our new event sponsor. They have built a reputation as one of the area’s most successful dealerships in Kawasaki Motorcycles (Sport, Cruiser, Offroad, Tour), Utility Vehicles (UTVs), All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Jet Ski Personal Watercraft. Their showroom in Coldbrook is always stocked with the latest makes and models of Kawasaki for your riding pleasure!

Camping and other Details

Park manager, Blaine Prest, has opened the park for camping on Saturday night for $20 per tent/trailer. We will have portapotties on site. Please bring a picnic lunch, water and snacks. We hope to host a fundraising BBQ but it is not yet confirmed.

This is a members-only event so make sure you pick up your NSORRA membership before you arrive at https://nsorra.ca and click on “Become A Member.”

If you can give some volunteer time to help at the event, please contact Claudine at ed@nsorra.ca

Prize winners from Drive to Ride 2023

Thanks to our Sponsors

Besides having a free riding day for our members, this is also a thank you to our many sponsors who support NSORRA and its members. We ask that you please support them in return!

TITANUM Level

Soles In Motion

Eassons Powersports

CrossRoads Cycle

GOLD Level

Shore Cycle & Marine

Cabot Powersports

AllSteel Coatings Ltd

Pro Cycle

Truro Motorsports

Rallye Motoplex

Honda Canada

The Shack Motorsports

Canadian Kawasaki Motors

SILVER Level

Triple S Cycle Works

Jungle Jim’s – Bayer’s Lake

GW Sampson Ltd

APD Motorsports

BRONZE Level

RPM Cycle

Backman Heating and Cooling

Steele Recreation

Corporate Sponsors

Kynock Resources

OnPoint Design

509 Offroad

Fly Racing

Callus Moto

Zoom Concentrated Cleaner

KKP – Halifax

Funding Partners

Province of Nova Scotia

Moto Canada

See you there!

As dirt bike enthusiasts get ready to explore Canada’s vast trails, Moto Canada highlights the importance of safety by sharing vital tips and resources with off-road motorcycle users.

Driven by Canada’s scenic beauty and the increasing popularity of off-road recreation, the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) industry is experiencing rapid growth. According to the latest study, spearheaded by Moto Canada and its partners, there are currently 1.35 million Off-Highway Vehicle users in Canada.

“Our industry is strong in Canada, and we look forward to continuing our work to ensure that riders can continue riding safely,” President and CEO Landon French said. “Almost all of the factors which contribute to rider injuries are simple, preventable measures that everyone can apply to have a fun, safe time.”

Gear Up Properly: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets, gloves, eye protection, and riding boots.

Inspect Your Bike: Before hitting the trails, thoroughly inspect your off-road vehicle for any mechanical issues, ensuring brakes, tires, and lights are all in working order.

Stay Informed: Be aware of your skill level and the capabilities of your bike. Only attempt challenging trails or maneuvers within your experience level.

Know Your Limits: Research your off-road destination beforehand. Know the terrain, weather forecast, and any local regulations or restrictions.

Be Prepared for Emergencies: Know how to handle off-road emergencies such as getting stuck, vehicle breakdowns, or injuries. Have a plan and know how to signal for help if needed.

Buddy Up: Go riding with at least one other rider whenever possible. This ensures you have backups in emergencies and can assist each other if needed.

Pack Essentials: Carry essential items such as water, food, a first-aid kit, a map, and a communication device (like a two-way radio or satellite phone).

Respect Nature: Stay on designated trails to protect the environment and prevent habitat destruction. Avoid disturbing wildlife and leave no trace of your visit.

Ride Safely: Ride at a safe speed, maintain a safe distance from other bikes, and use caution when navigating obstacles. Avoid sudden movements that could lead to accidents.

Practice Good Trail Etiquette: Yield to other trail users, including hikers, bicycles, and equestrians. Be courteous and respectful of others sharing the trail.

MOTO CANADA is a not-for-profit organization representing the interests of the manufacturers and distributors of motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, all-terrain vehicles, side-by-sides and related industries in Canada.

During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, it's crucial to emphasize the significance of proper training in becoming a confident rider. Take time to explore the essential role of motorcycle training through the MCC National Training Program 101 being piloted by NSORRA, and the importance of honing your skills in a secure environment.

Guided by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) Off-Road Council, we've navigated through preparation and riding procedures. Join exceptional riders, Loïc Léonard and Félicia Robichaud, ISDE medalists, as they lead you through every step to ensure a safe and exhilarating trail ride.

Trail Riding Safety Video 1: Planning the Ride

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMnR0zBigG8

Trail Riding Safety Video 2: Preparing to Ride

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2OvbgVennI

Trail Riding Safety Video 3: Trail Head

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiJFYsmCbqI

Trail Riding Safety Video 4: Responsible Trail Use & Volunteering

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEDZCWJoQfg

Trail Riding Safety Video 5: Get Trained

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pU8pQMGKW94

#GetTrained #TrailLeaders #SafetyFirst

Both hands on your front fender! A pause as anticipation rushes down the start line. Then…the flags wave furiously and they’re off – racing for the holeshot line!

This is a familiar scenario to those who have ever attended a NSORRA hare scramble. It’s up to the race director how each class is going to start their race so be prepared, and hopefully you’ve chose the right spot on the start line! It’s always fun for those watching and cheering for their favourite riders.

New Season, New Ideas

This scramble season, sponsored by Soles In Motion, we will be offering one Women’s class. Their race will take place at the same time as Intermediate B and run for 90 minutes on the morning course. For those women who prefer a more advanced level of riding, we are offering one Top Female Rider award to be presented at the afternoon awards.

The NSORRA Race Committee spent the offseason drumming up support for the vintage class. We hope to have a full class of vintage bikes at our events. More information can be found in our blogs.

Returning to five hare scrambles this season means we can offer the opportunity of scoring 4 out of 5 events for the championship. If competitors miss a scramble, they can still be in the running! If you make all five events, we will pull scores from your top 4.

2024 hare scramble trophies

We also have new trophies this season designed by NSORRA member Justin Lewis. He took rider feedback from last season and designed this year’s trophies so that they can either be flat for hanging or have a stand for shelves.

Truro Motorsports has returned as our Holeshot Sponsor again this year. There is only one way to get one of the coveted red Holeshot shirts – you have to WIN it! Looking forward to seeing who takes home these shirts this season.

Back together again: Cabot Powersports-NSORRA Hare Scramble 1 at Craigmore - May 28

Our NSORRA hare scramble family will be back together again as the season kicks off in Craigmore, Cape Breton on Saturday, May 25. We are happy to have this event sponsored by Cabot Powersports, who will be joining us at the event.

Always a challenging course, Race Director Dave Tobin and his team worked magic in the woods to ensure that riders have to keep on their pegs to ensure success in their race.

Post race, Craigmore becomes a giant campground for riders to hang out with friends and enjoy some great food while watching the sunset over the ocean. Don’t be surprised to hear a few musical instruments and singing as everyone kicks back and relaxes.

Weekend at Mill Hill sponsored by Easson’s Powersports June 22-23

After a few years’ hiatus, we are back at Mill Hill for Hare Scramble 2 followed by our annual Drive to Ride, both sponsored by Easson’s Powersports (formerly Park Street RV) the Annapolis Valley’s Kawasaki dealer.

Landowner Blaine Prest has opened the park to camping for the weekend at $20 per vehicle so racers have an opportunity to relax after the scramble and set up for fun at the Sunday event on the Mill Hill trails and MX track.

CrossRoads Cycle-NSORRA Hare Scramble 3 at Beaver Ride Park – July 27

CrossRoads Cycle is sponsoring Scramble 3 which will take place at NSORRA’s newest ride park which is open to guided rides only due to its challenging trails. Located in Economy, landowner and NSORRA member David Beaver continues to develop trails throughout hiis property.

Shore Cycle & Marine-NSORRA Hare Scramble 4 – South Alton

August brings Hare Scramble 4 to South Alton, a ride park featuring varied terrain that provides challenges to all levels of riders. One of the highlights of this scramble will be having Shore Cycle and Marine as the event sponsor. Cathy and Fred always host a fabulous barbecue and make it a fun event.

AllSteel Coatings-NSORRA Hare Scramble 5 at Craigmore – September 28

Fall in Cape Breton is beautiful and closing the hare scramble season in September at Craigmore provides the perfect bookend. New GOLD sponsor, AllSteel Coatings Ltd owned by NSORRA member Dan Cooper, brings us full circle back to our grassroots community support.

Race t-shirts

This year’s t-shirt design is was chosen by our Timing & Scoring Queen, Megan Cairns who also recommended the colour…and the Race Committee agreed! The teal shirts, sporting all of our sponsors on the back, can be purchased during race registration. It will also be available at the upcoming Drive to Ride.

Thank you!

Thanks are going out to our volunteers. Trails are built and maintained across the province by dedicated trail builders and NSORRA members do their fair share of work. Though we don’t always hear about it, know that if you are riding a trail, someone was there before you making it happen!c

2024 NSORRA Sponsors – Thank you!

We have to thank the sponsors who come on board to support NSORRA. As a non-profit, we would not be able to hold events for our members without these sponsors. We ask you to take a look at this list and make a point of visiting and using your purchasing dollars at these places that make a point of supporting NSORRA.

TITLE Sponsor: Soles In Motion

PLATINUM Sponsor: CrossRoads Cycle, Eassons Powersports, Kynock Resources

GOLD Sponsors: Shore Cycle and Marine, Cabot Powersports, The Shack Powersports, Pro Cycle, Truro Motorsports, Canadian Kawasaki Motors, Honda Canada, AllSteel Coatings Ltd, Rallye Motoplex

SILVER Sponsors: Jungle Jim’s – Bayer’s Lake, Triple S Cycle Works, GW Sampson, APD Motorsports

BRONZE Sponsors: RPM Cycle, Steele Recreation, Backman Heating and Cooling

PARTNERS: Province of Nova Scotia, Moto Canada, MCC - Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada

The 2024 NSORRA race season is coming!

Each year, the NSORRA race committee reviews the previous race season to improve our members’ experience and the series as a whole before revising the scramble rulebook.

The rule book is like a code of conduct that both NSORRA and race participants abide by, so it’s important that all members who participate in the race series be familiar with it.

2024 Hare Scramble Rulebook

Women's start at Craigmore

Women’s Class Changes

After much discussion with those who compete in our Women’s classes (previously Women B in the morning and Women A in the afternoon), we have decided on one Women’s class this season. It will run with the Intermediate B class in the morning; a 90-minute course.

For those women who prefer to race the afternoon course, we will be presenting one Top Female Rider award in the afternoon at each scramble.

Scramble Registrations Open

All NSORRA hare scrambles are now open for registration on our NSORRA Events page.

To allow for Timing & Scoring travel:

• Registration closes the Wednesday before the scramble for Craigmore and Beaver Ride Park scrambles.
• Registration closes the Thursday before for the Valley scrambles.

The full NSORRA schedule can be found on the website under Resources in the menu.

*Reminder that you must have a NSORRA membership to participate in an NSORRA event.

Motorcycle enthusiasts across Canada are gearing up for the annual Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month this May, led by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC).

This year’s campaign aims to highlight both the love for riding and the collective responsibility for promoting and adhering to motorcycle laws and safety.

Geoff Jilg, MCC President, expressed, “With spring in the air, motorcyclists are eager to hit the roads and trails once again. It's imperative to remind riders of all levels and other road users of the critical importance of safety.

#RidersForLife embodies our commitment to fostering a culture where safety is paramount, ensuring everyone can enjoy the ride responsibly and do so for a lifetime.”

NSORRA's own Melissa Steeves is the MCC poster girl!

Our Sport Is Growing

As of 2022, Canada boasted approximately 852,300 on-road and off-road motorcycles. This surge in interest underscores the need for a renewed focus on safety. Targeting new and returning riders and promoting essential safety practices such as training, skill development, and adherence to safety gear protocols is crucial.

Tips for Better Riding and Driving

Motorists are urged to participate in the safety dialogue by adopting the mantra of “Riders For Life.” With May marking the beginning of peak riding season, increased road vigilance is crucial. Simple actions like double-checking mirrors and blind spots, giving extra space to motorcycles, and heightening awareness of fellow road users can significantly enhance safety for all. Our website offers a variety of valuable resources available to motorcycle riders, including primary and advanced training options from certified instructors and schools.

If you haven't ridden your motorcycle for a while, seeking advice and tips from experienced riders is a good idea. They are generally very generous with their knowledge and can remind you that during the early spring season, roads may have gravel, debris, and grass clippings, making it harder for you to corner, brake, and stop safely. Therefore, it is critical to wear the right safety gear and appropriate clothing, commonly referred to as ATGATT (All The Gear All The Time). Join the movement this May and beyond as we pledge to uphold safety as an integral part of the riding experience. Let’s make #RidersForLife a successful campaign and a way of life on the roads.

About the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada

Since 2004, the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada has been dedicated to promoting the interests of riders and racers across Canada. MCC fosters the growth of affiliated organizations and advocates for the vibrant motorcycling community with transparency and accessibility.

Our communication extends to various stakeholders, including government officials, politicians, communities of interest, and the media, ensuring our perspectives are heard and acted upon. Through strategic alliances with member organizations and international partners, we establish a robust and respected presence for Canada within the global motorcycling landscape.

Not long now until the first hare scramble of the year. If you’re in a similar situation to me (Nigel), then there’s still a lot of work to be done before your “vintage iron” steed is ready.

Recently, I’ve been busy working on my son’s 1993 Kawasaki, which now qualifies for the NSORRA Vintage class. One evening he commented that really, it isn’t any different from a modern bike and he’s going to annihilate me on my 1977 twin-shock machine.

So I took the opportunity to remind him that the plan was for older bikes to have a one-minute per year advantage, and that would mean I’d get a 13-minute allowance. He wasn’t too impressed upon hearing this and correctly pointed out he’d have to ride a full “extra” lap (basically, un-lap himself) before catching me up.

I have to admit, I wouldn’t be too impressed either, if the situation was reversed. An hour is a pretty short race period to get that done. On the other hand, he’s never ridden such an old bike, much less tried to race one. And he’s young!

With the one class now accommodating such a wide scope and including “Evo” and “Super Evo” spec machines, the performance gap from older to newer machines is huge. As mentioned in previous discussions, the later bikes are perfectly capable of competing successfully in the modern classes.

Leveling the Playing Field

So that brings us back to the issue of leveling up the playing field. Having given this considerable thought, my initial suggestion of a time advantage for the older bikes would be extremely complicated and confusing to determine final positions, unless all the riders who passed the finish line on the same lap (and their final lap before the 1-hour mark) had that lap deleted.

Like I said, it gets complicated. Again, that seems unfair as who knows what could happen regarding changes of position, breakdowns, tip overs, passes, etc.

Big group, two classes?

So in the interests of simplicity, if there are enough riders in the class, I suggest splitting the class into A and B categories. Likely there will be quicker riders on older bikes and slower riders on more modern bikes. Who fits into which class can be determined after the first Round.

As always, any ideas, suggestions and further discussion on the topic is most welcome. Contact Nigel Brooks at nigebrooks@yahoo.com to provide your input.

Nigel Brooks, a former British racer and a NSORRA hare scramble competitor, is NSORRA’s subject matter expert on Vintage racing.

Dirt biking is a passion for many riders. We often hear stories about how a top competitor grew up on a bike and how it made a difference in their life.

A boy and his love of dirt bikes

Today I received a note from a proud dad. His son has followed in his footsteps and is competing in NSORRA hare scrambles. He and his family are well-known and liked among their NSORRA family and in fact, Caleb is our poster boy for getting a NSORRA membership! Without further ado…

I wanted to share this with you. Caleb had to write an informational paper for his grade 4 homework. It's worth reading. The impact the NSORRA has on our kids is second to none.

Spencer Martin (Caleb’s Dad)

All About Dirt Biking By Caleb Martin (age 10)

My name is Caleb Martin and I race dirt bikes and I’m going to teach you different models, sizes and brands of dirt bikes.

There are many different brands of dirt bikes. Some of the popular brands include Honda, Yamaha, KTM, GasGas, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Apollo.

There are multiple different sizes of bikes. Many brands make smaller dirt bikes for kids. Kids bikes have different engine sizes from 50cc to 150cc (cc stands for cubic centimeters).

There are many different models of bikes too. Different models are for different riding styles. Some are for motocross and others are for trail riding in the woods. Some models can be the same but with different size engines. Some models have 2-stroke engines, some have 4-stroke engines and others have electric motors.

I ride an Apollo 110 4-stroke and my dad rides a GasGas 300 2-stroke.

In conclusion, I love racing and learning about dirt bikes. I learn most from my dad and being at the races. There’s lots to learn about dirt biking and I can’t wait to learn more.

Thank you for sharing your essay and your love of dirt biking, Caleb. We’ll see you at the NSORRA hare scrambles this season!

Congratulations to the following riders who have been promoted for the 2024 season!

Junior to Intermediate

• Keegan Maxwell
• Ethan Lutes
• Keithan Wentzell

Intermediate B to Intermediate A

• Mitchell Curtis
• Chris Thompson
• Carson Palmer

Intermediate A to Expert

• Ezra King
• Spencer Martin
• Francois Pitre
• Lucas Ashford

Why do Scramble Promotions?

A healthy race series will have classes that show proportional growth at each level. When we see lower classes growing exponentially, with higher classes stagnating or shriA healthy race series will have classes that show proportional growth at each level. When we see lower classes growing exponentially, with higher classes stagnating or shrinking, it’s an indication that the race series is in need of enforcement of policies put in place to maintain balance.

Riders are encouraged to self-promote to a higher class. At the same time, if a rider feels that their abilities are not up to their current class, they can contact the Race Committee through info@nsorra.ca to discuss the situation.nking, it’s an indication that the race series is in need of enforcement of policies put in place to maintain balance.

The Maritime Trials Riders are a group of Off Road Riders who like to promote and participate in the sport of Motorcycle Trials Riding.

The sport of Motorcycle trials involves riding technical "sections" of trails without touching (dabbing) your foot to the ground. Every "dab" counts as a point and the fewest "dabs" win. Most events involve riding 6 to 10 "sections" in a loop and the loop is ridden 3 or 4 times.

We have 4 levels of difficulty from "beginner" (which can be ridden by riders who are even new to motorcycle riding) to "Advanced" (which can be challenging to very seasoned riders).

We follow the WTC rule book (last revised in 2013) that can be found here: http://www.worldtrialscanada.com/WTCObservedTrialsRules2013.pdf

For further information contact Michael at mtraves@ns.sympatico.ca

2023 Trials Schedule

YouTube Video - Trials Training Jonathan English

Enduro 1.0 and 2.0 clinics to be offered this fall.

I’m really excited to be hosted by NSORRA in beautiful Nova Scotia! NSORRA is an amazing, welcoming association and I’m proud to be coming back to work with them on some training clinics! Big thanks to NSORRA for hosting! @megs_braap

Making a return to Nova Scotia is riding instructor extraordinaire, Megan Griffiths aka Megs Brapp. Megs is widely known in dirt bike circles for her riding skill, teaching tips and great personality displayed on her YouTube channel and in social media posts.

Her clinics provide an opportunity for participants to learn from her expertise and gain valuable insights into the sport. Through her riding clinics, Megs Braap aims to create a supportive environment for skill development and offer guidance on various aspects of dirt biking.

What will you learn?

Participants in Megs’ skills clinics can expect to receive instruction on proper body positioning, breaking bad habits, and improving technical skills that are often overlooked. The focus is on drill-oriented training, allowing riders to practice and refine their techniques under expert guidance. Whether it’s learning fundamental trials techniques or advanced enduro skills, Megs Braap’s clinics cater to riders of different skill levels.

ENDURO 1.0 WITH MEGS BRAAP – Beaver Ride Park, ECONOMY, NS

If you are ready to improve your dirt biking skills, Enduro 1.0 will help you take your riding to the next level. Megs starts by covering the important technical points that riders don’t often take the time to focus on, and then builds from there throughout the day.

The class is setup in a way that riders will be challenged and able to leave their comfort zone no matter where they are at with their skills. It is important to me that I cater to each individual’s needs. We keep class sizes small to ensure maximum 1 on 1 time and feedback for riders.

She covers everything from bike setup, body positioning, and cornering techniques, to controlled wheelies and log crossings. If you haven’t taken one of her classes before, she recommends you start with Enduro 1.0.

Co-ed: Friday, September 13^th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

https://megsbraapofficial.com/product/enduro-1-0-with-megs-braap-nova-scotia-sept-13th/

Women Only: Saturday, September 14^th 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

https://megsbraapofficial.com/product/all-womens-enduro-1-0-with-megs-braap-economy-ns-sept-14th/

ENDURO 2.0 WITH MEGS BRAAP – Beaver Ride Park, ECONOMY, NS

Enduro 2.0 is an advanced look at enduro riding, focusing on hard enduro skills and techniques. You’ll need a solid base of skills to gain the most from this clinic. Megs strongly recommends taking Enduro 1.0 first if you can!

The course could be based around rocky terrain, off-camber terrain, logs, hills, creeks, or any mixture of these things! On top of that, Megs will always cover techniques for precise wheel placement, advanced obstacle crossings, traction control, and trials-based clutch, throttle, and braking exercises.

This course will help you fine tune the skills you have, and give you the information and feedback you need to master more advanced skills and techniques. At the end of this class, you’ll be more confident and proficient in the extreme terrain, and you’ll have the tools to go home and practice the new skills you’ve learned.

Co-ed: Sunday, September 15^th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

https://megsbraapofficial.com/product/enduro-1-0-with-megs-braap-nova-scotia-sept-15th/

NSORRA Participants in the 2020 Women's Clinic

It is my promise to you that you will leave the class with a new understanding for proper technique, new drills to practice, and the tools to make big improvements with your riding!

Megs

When the call for volunteers when out for Motorcycle & Powersport Atlantic, 25 different NSORRA members stepped up to help out. That’s what a grassroots nonprofit is all about!

NSORRA booth volunteers

New prime location

The 2024 NSORRA booth, located at the top of the ramp of the second room at Halifax Exhibition Centre, was hard to miss with our bright canopies and dirt bikes, including President Josh Kelly’s fully decaled race bike sporting a set of studded trail carbides for winter riding, Nigel Brooks’ 1977 Honda CT125, a NSORRA training bike and two Trials bikes.

From Friday, March 1 at 10 a.m. to Sunday, March 3 at 5 p.m., NSORRA volunteers answered questions about membership, hare scrambles, training, rec riding and tires, before inviting visitors to take on the static bike balance challenge.

Static Bike Balance Challenge

While chatting with booth visitors, NSORRA volunteers asked them to take on the static bike balancing challenge. Balancing a dirt bike with no engine running is a challenge in itself, so we made it a little bit easier by using Trials bikes that are made for balancing. A second assist of the front bike wheel inside an empty tire was offered to get riders started.

We had challengers from kids to grandparents giving it a try. Women seemed to have an advantage with a lower centre of gravity, but two NSORRA members stood head and shoulders above the other challengers. On Friday, Nigel Brooks balanced for 10 minutes and 18 seconds; a record we thought would hang on for the weekend, but Patrick Goguen, a Trials specialist, came in with a strong 12 minutes and 10 seconds to take the win!

All About Tires

Last year, we offered tire change demos but this year we upped our game by asking NSORRA SILVER Sponsor, Stuart Buck of Triple S Cycle Works, to loan us several different Gibson and Mitas tires and tubes. NSORRA volunteers explained the pros and cons of each to booth visitors, including tubeliss inflation system, regular tubes, and mousses (foam inner tube). We also had a number of enduro tires on display, from soft for sand and mud up to hard for packed and rocky soil as well as winter enduro tires and a medium/hard MX tire.

The NSORRA Trials community were the featured performers for the event. Trials riding involves riding technical "sections" of trails without touching (dabbing) your foot to the ground. Every "dab" counts as a point and the fewest "dabs" win. Most events involve riding 6 to 10 "sections" in a loop and the loop is ridden 3 or 4 times.

Maritime Trials Riders put on a master balance show, riding over obstacles like barrels, a seesaw, a trailer and even hopping over small vertical obstacles. They have recently finalized their 2024 event schedule which will be added to the updated NSORRA schedule next week.

All NSORRA event participants must have a NSORRA membership but all events are free to spectators!

Thanks to NSORRA Volunteers

This event could not have happened without the volunteer efforts of many, including NSORRA Board members: Josh Kelly, Mike Ritter, Brian Priest, Meagan Cairns, Paige Milligan and David Tobin. Member volunteers included: Denis Pellichero, Nigel Brooks, Emerson Brooks, Steve Smith, Nagia Fawzi, Fred Eddy, Matthew Purdy, Shereef Elkoshairi, Stuart Buck, Rod Conrad, Justin MacNeil, Susan Foote, Grant Lingley, Brent Pottle, Andrea Kelly, Evelyn Kelly, Steven Hussey, Barret Ayres and Carter Ayres.

Volunteers Make Events Happen!

We are always looking for volunteers interested in making their community an even better place to ride – all while having fun and making new friends in the process! We welcome volunteers of all ages and encourage youth to get involved as a way to learn new skills or share the ones you already have.

Here is the Volunteer Job List (see bottom tabs) for this season. Please reach out to Claudine at ed@nsorra.ca to add your name to the volunteer list.

WE NEED YOU to make our season happen!

We will be offering training in

• Timing & Scoring
• Chainsaw Operation
• Trail Building

We are looking for committee members for:

• Trails
• Recreational Riding
• Race
• Women In Moto
• Special Events

We are also looking for Board members for:

• Trails Director
• Rec Riding Director

Every volunteer makes a difference. The Nova Scotia dirt bike community is filled with talented riders with passionate ideas. If we come together, we can keep growing this sport and making this community better and better every year.

I recently heard a new acronym: STP, or “Same Ten People.” As in, it’s the same ten people in any community who are the ones who get stuff done.

NSORRA strives to do better than the same ten people. We are community and, more importantly, we are family. We each have a lot to offer, and volunteering helps our community to grow and be the best it can be. Fresh ideas and energy are what push us forward. There's a place for everyone to help, from children and spouses to spectators!

NSORRA is a grassroots nonprofit

The Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association (NSORRA) is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization formed to promote and represent the safe, family friendly and environmentally responsible sport of off-road motorcycling. As a grassroots nonprofit and in an effort to keep its membership costs low, NSORRA relies on its members to support the association and its activities through volunteerism.

Cultivating a practice of service

So how does one get involved? How does one change the culture in a community to get more than the usual folks to show up and get work done?

First, think about your relationship with the outdoors as being reciprocal instead of one-sided. And then realize how the benefits of participating will make a big impact, too. Think about how much more impactful it would be if a much larger percentage of riders played a role in the building, maintenance and advocacy for NSORRA activities and trails. Volunteering not only benefits the individual participating, but also the greater riding community.

Make a difference!

Every volunteer makes a difference. The Nova Scotia dirt bike community is filled with talented riders with passionate ideas. If we come together, we can keep growing this sport and making this community better and better every year.

We are always looking for volunteers interested in making their community an even better place to ride – all while having fun and making new friends in the process! We welcome volunteers of all ages and encourage youth to get involved as a way to learn new skills or share the ones you already have.

Here is the Volunteer Job List (see bottom tabs) for this season.

WE NEED YOU to make our season happen. We will be offering training in:

• Timing & Scoring
• Chainsaw Operation
• Trail Building

We are looking for committee members for:

• Trails
• Recreational Riding
• Race
• Women In Moto
• Special Events

We are also looking for Board members for:

• Trails Director
• Rec Riding Director

South Alton Work & Ride 2023

Volunteer Recognition

Volunteers are the foundation of our organization! We could not exist without the dedicated volunteers who contribute to NSORRA events and trail development and management throughout the province.

We will be launching a Volunteer Recognition Program this season (more details to follow). Whenever you volunteer, whether it’s trail maintenance, an event or something else, let us know by filling out the info in our database.

Contact: Send a note to Claudine at ed@nsorra.ca to let us know where you would like to help out. Events won’t happen without you!

Have you ever wondered why NSORRA works in partnership with landowners and funding partners to maintain ride parks? And why do kids have to be six in order to become NSORRA members and participate in events?

Development of ride parks

In December 2005, the same year the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association was formed, the Province of Nova Scotia introduced new laws regarding the operation of Off Highway Vehicles (OHVs) including dirt bikes, ATVs, side-by-sides and snowmobiles. One notable change included the development of closed courses. These closed courses are designed to ensure that youth who operate OHVs are doing so in a safe and controlled environment.

A closed course is officially defined as “an area of land being used for an organized OHV event during which access to the area by motor vehicles is limited.” In practical terms, a closed course is a facility which is designed and managed to provide a safe, controlled environment where trained OHV users 6 years of age and older can ride OHVs.

Courses have controlled entrance and exit points and one-way traffic patterns. All other potential access points are gated or managed to limit the access by other motor vehicles registered pursuant to the Motor Vehicle Act. Access will also be limited for non-motorized users. A trained official and a trained first responder will be present and accessible to users.

A closed course is a facility which is designed and managed to provide a safe, controlled environment where trained OHV users 6 years of age and older can ride OHVs.

Requirements for Using a Closed Course

• No child under the age of 6 can ride on a closed course.
  
• Youth aged 6 to 15 must be in sight of a trained parent or legal guardian at all times. Parent or legal guardian can also designate a trained official or other responsible adult 19 or over to supervise their child on their behalf).
• Youth aged 6 to 15 must be on OHVs of an appropriate size, in accordance with the Off-highway Vehicles Act and its regulations.
• As per the schedule outlined in the Off-highway Vehicles Safety and Training Regulations, all users must be trained before using the course.
• Approved helmets (DOT, CSA, SNELL, or BSI) must be worn at all times when riding.
• Additional protective equipment including eye protection, long pants, long sleeves, gloves and boots are required for riders aged 15 and under and are highly recommended for all OHV users. Chest, elbow, leg and other protective equipment is optional but may be deemed necessary by course operators.
• Users must follow all course rules of operation.
• All users of a closed course must have their OHVs registered.
• Effective April 1, 2007 all machines must have 3rd party liability insurance coverage for an amount that will be provided in the regulations. An operator may decide to have 3rd party liability insurance as a prerequisite to use their closed course before April 1, 2007.
• No vehicle that has an exhaust system other than that provided by the manufacturer or equivalent standard if replaced is allowed on a closed course.
• It is an offense to operate an OHV while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Passengers on OHVs are not recommended.
• All components of the Off-highway Vehicles Act also apply.

Landowners and Funding Partners

NSORRA works with wonderful landowners to ensure our members have safe, fun places to ride across the province. Our landowners include:

• Stephen Parkinson, South Alton Ride Park
• Sean Lacey, Hiltz Road Ride Park
• Vincent Van Zutphen, Craigmore Creek Ride Park
• Dave Beaver, Economy Ride Park (opening soon!)

To ensure quality ride parks, we also rely on our funding partners. They include:

• Department of Lands and Forestry Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund (OHVIF) - Province of Nova Scotia
• Moto Canada
• Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage (CCH) - Province of Nova Scotia

Thank you to all who contribute to making off road riding enjoyable across the province.

For all Sponsorships and for Corporate Memberships, please contact Claudine at ED@nsorra.ca

Title Sponsor

​

Platinum Sponsor

​

Holeshot Sponsor

​

Scramble Event Sponsors

​

​

Scramble Sponsors

SILVER SPONSORS

​

​

BRONZE SPONSORS

​

​

​

​

​

Corporate Sponsors

​

​

​

​

Women In Moto Sponsor

​

Training Sponsors

​

​

Partners

​

​

​

The previous blog stirred up some interesting comments regarding the Vintage class. Nigel Brooks, NSORRA’s subject matter expert, adds his comments to the discussion.

Following format of Off-Road Ontario?

One suggestion we received was to emulate Off-Road Ontario where they subdivide the class depending on air-cooled, liquid-cooled, single shock or twin shock. While this makes perfect sense from a “fairness” standpoint, it’s worth noting that Ontario gets more “Vintage class” entries alone than we get total entries for all classes. So each subclass has good support. A turnout of five vintage bikes here in Nova Scotia would be a record! Now factor in the age spread of the bikes, which would likely have to be accommodated in the one class. For example: one rider on a 1975 machine, another on a 1993. Subdividing is not practical in these circumstances.

Another rider suggested the “V” class formula, again emulating Off-Road Ontario. But again, due to the large number of “Vintage” racers, Ontario is able to provide more categories tailored for older riders on newer machines.

Getting vintage bikes back on the track

The primary objective of the Vintage class is to get Vintage bikes back out racing, not necessarily vintage riders! The first vintage event I (Nigel) took part in was back in 1992. I was 25 years old. The class should not be seen as the reserve for older riders. My son, who turned thirteen this year, would love to have a vintage bike to race in the class. But I haven’t come across the particular bike he wants for me to restore for him, yet. Which brings up the subject of suitable bikes and their availability.

Vintage bike availability

This year, I’ve seen local advertisements on Kijiji and Marketplace for numerous XR’s, five Yamaha IT’s (two 175’s, one 200 and one 250), two Suzuki PE’s, and a couple of Cam Am’s that I can remember. All of these bikes meet the current regulations, so there are a few out there. Yes, they all needed work, but that goes with the territory and for some, this is half the fun. One thing you can take for granted is that getting these old bikes fit for competition again takes a lot longer that you might think. So if you do have aspirations of having a dabble in the Vintage class, the sooner you get started, the better.

I will endeavour to post any relevant ads on “Atlantic Vintage Dirt Bike Racers.”

Please keep the comments and suggestions flowing to nigebrooks@yahoo.com.

NSORRA training, hare scrambles, rec rides, Women in Moto, Drive to Ride – what do these all have in common?

FANTASTIC SPONSORS!

No COVID restrictions means more events!

2023 marked the first year since 2020 without COVID restrictions. What did this mean for NSORRA? More opportunity to host events for our members!

Because we try to keep our costs low to encourage participation, these events would not be possible without financial support from our sponsors and funding partners.

Chris & Jen Estabrooks are enthusiastic NSORRA sponsors. Here at Hiltz Road Scramble 1

Soles In Motion

Soles In Motion returned in a big way as our TITLE sponsor this season. Jen and Chris Estabrooks set up at the Hiltz Road hare scramble to kick off the season. During the event, several riders visited the Soles In Motion tent to be sized for braces. One stop shopping!

The Estabrooks have been supporters of NSORRA for many years and are well known to our members and those in the dirt bike community.

CrossRoads Cycle

This year we had a new sponsor and they came in big time. CrossRoads Cycle joined us as a PLATINUM Sponsor for hare scrambles and also became the NSORRA Rec Ride sponsor. Not stopping there, they also sponsored a training day and handed out discounts to the participants. Special thanks goes out to Chuck Graham who represented CrossRoads at events all over the province and to Lee Weir, owner of CrossRoads, who chose to send his sponsorship dollars our way. Thank you!

Kynock Resources Ltd

A special shout out to PLATINUM Sponsor – Kynock Resources. Owner Brent Pottle offered land on his business’s property for us to run the NSORRA dirt bike school. It is an amazing central location where he allows us to provide great dirt bike training opportunities for our members. We have been building advanced features on site with a plan to offer more advanced skills training in the future.

Trails, tracks and training at Drive to Ride

Sponsorship = Events!

This year, we had GOLD, SILVER and Bronze Sponsorships.

Our annual Drive to Ride returned to Mill Hill this season. GOLD SPONSOR Valley Yamaha-Suzuki’s Kirk Long teamed up with landowner Blaine Prest to sponsor the event.

GOLD SPONSOR Canadian Kawasaki Motors was represented at the South Alton Scramble by Peter and Jeff Easson of Easson’s Powersports (formerly Park Street RV). They brought a cooler of water and handed out prizes. It’s always nice to have sponsors on site.

Cabot Powersports jumped up from BRONZE Sponsor to GOLD Sponsor this year and was our Craigmore Hare Scramble Sponsor. As the biggest motorcycle dealer in Cape Breton, it was great to see them take on this event which attracted a great crowd of Capers.

Shore Cycle and Marine was this year’s GOLD sponsor for the Beaver Ride Park Scramble. It was quite a distance away, but this event fit their schedule the best. Though Fred and Cathy were not able to make it this year, they sent NSORRA’s favourite dad – Danny Gray – to staff their tent even though Danny was a grandfather of two days to Expert Rider Devin Gray’s new baby. Danny handed out prizes and lots of goodies at the scramble while raising money for Feed Nova Scotia – much appreciated!

A rec ride in Debert proved very popular

When it comes to the scrambles, everyone is familiar with GOLD sponsor Truro Motorsports. Randy McLeod donated the prized red Holeshot t-shirts this year that were awarded to winners.

Beta Canada stepped into a GOLD sponsor position this season. Many thanks to Stephen Howland who sponsored our training with a BETA X-trainer which we picked up at RPM Cycle. Beta Canada support for NSORRA continues to be outstanding.

Liberty CC also returned as a GOLD sponsor. They hosted a bike clinic at their shop and a Women In Moto event at Callus Raceway where women could participate in a dirt bike demo course, beginner and intermediate trail rides and beginner and intermediate MX.

Participants at our Liberty CC Women In Moto event

Stuart Buck of Triple S Cycle Works is our superstar SILVER sponsor. If there is anything he can do to support NSORRA and dirt bike riders, he is there! From clearing trails to attending events and even acting as a sweep rider, we could always count on Stuart and his team to lend a hand.

Jungle Jim’s – Bayers Lake owner Bruce Skinner returned as a SILVER sponsor this season. Besides participating in our hare scrambles, Bruce also donated several hundred dollars in gift certificates for his restaurant. On behalf of those prize winners, thank you, Bruce!

Pro Cycle and RPM Cycle came on as BRONZE sponsors this season. They were joined by new BRONZE Sponsors The Sled Shed who stepped up from corporate sponsor last season, Steele Recreation who moved from corporate sponsor to BRONZE sponsor and Backman Heating and Cooling, owned by NSORRA member Ryan Backman. It is so wonderful to have this grassroots support from our members.

We also have several other Scramble sponsors who we’d like to thank. Fly Racing (through Mountain Sports Distribution), Callus Moto, Zoom Cleaning Products, and Kwik Kopy Halifax.

We would not have been able to put on this series without all the financial support from these sponsors. We ask all of our members to support these organizations that support us.

Funding Partners

We also receive grants through three groups. These funds help ensure our non-profit association stays afloat by subsidizing core expenses.

• The Nova Scotia government through:
  • OHVIF – the Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund and
  • CCTH – Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage
• Moto Canada – formerly the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council

Thanks for making NSORRA what it is today -

the voice of offroad motorcycling in Nova Scotia!

What’s old is new again – looking for Vintage bikes and riders for NSORRA hare scrambles!

NSORRA introduced a vintage class at the hare scrambles a few years ago but participation has been spotty of late and we want to change that. We’re looking for ideas to grow participation!

Proposed Vintage Class Regulations

There have been inquiries regarding the eligibility criteria for the Vintage class at NSORRA hare scrambles and whether the criteria should be relaxed.

Current regulations are as follows:

• 1990 model year or older 4-stroke with front disc or drum brake and rear drum only.
• 1983 model year or older 2-stroke manufactured with drum brakes front and rear. (No 2-stroke machines will be permitted to be equipped with a front disc brake).

Due to the scarcity of bikes that meet the current age requirements, an eligible date for all bikes (2- and 4-stroke) manufactured 1993 and prior has been suggested. As this would allow very capable bikes (even by today’s standards) to compete in the class, bikes manufactured prior to 1990 would receive a one-minute per year allowance in an effort to even up the technology gap.

In 2020, we had four vintage bikes registered at South Alton

How would this work?

For example, if the leading rider on a machine manufactured in 1993 completed five laps in a time of 1 hour, 17 minutes and 42 seconds, and the second rider completed five laps with a time of 1 hour, 24 minutes and 30 seconds riding a machine manufactured in 1986, the rider finishing second on the course would take the win (12 seconds) once his 7-minute time allowance had been applied.

Send us your suggestions!

These are ideas to booster our vintage class. Any comments, suggestions, critiques and further discussion would be most welcome. Contact Nigel Brooks at nigebrooks@yahoo.com to provide your input.

PS: Many thanks to Nigel Brooks for taking the lead on this!

NSORRA wants to take the opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to every single person who has volunteered their time to sit on our Board, assist during a race or special event or manage and maintain the beautiful trails of this province.

Volunteers make things happen!Volunteers contribute passion, skill, and tireless work. They turn trails into gateways for everyone to access and enjoy the outdoors, do what is needed to make events happen and, in the case of the NSORRA Board, do the behind the scenes planning to ensure trails, activities and events occur.

This does not go unnoticed!

Shout out to the NSORRA Board of Directors!

NSORRA Board Volunteers make things happen!

Some of our biggest volunteers are NSORRA Board members. They give their time to plan activities and events to ensure all of our members have fun on the trails.

On Sunday, December 3, we held our year-end NSORRA Board wrap-up, strategic planning and budget meeting. Lots of great discussion and plans were made (more to come!).

At lunchtime, the Board enjoyed pizzas courtesy of Recreation Nova Scotia thanks to a winning photo entry in their summer contest.

Recognizing last founding Board member - Neil Jennings

We recognized longtime Board member, Neil Jennings who stepped down after 18 years serving the Nova Scotia dirt bike community. Neil was Trails Director for many years and more recently Rec Ride Director. Though he stepped down from his official role, Neil has agreed to continue organizing NSORRA rec rides in northern Nova Scotia.

Live Outside, Feel Alive!

The full-day meeting also presented us with the opportunity to recognize several outstanding Board volunteers who went above and beyond in 2023.

Congratulations to Mike Ritter, Neil Jennings, Josh Kelly, Paige Milligan, Meagan Cairns and Dave Tobin.

Your NSORRA 2024 Board of Directors includes:

• Josh Kelly, President and Training co-Director
• David Tobin - Vice President and Race co-Director
• Paige Milligan - Vice President and Women In Moto Director
• Dale Wells - Treasurer
• Mike Ritter - Training co-Director
• Meagan Cairns - Race co-Director
• Richard Parkinson - Trails co-Director
• Scott Lockhart - Corporate Liaison
• Brian Priest - Equipment Maintenance and Supply
• Trails co-Director - volunteer needed

We have committees for Race, Women in Moto and Trails. They all need volunteers.

The Rec Ride Committee is lead by Neil Jennings and Shereef Elkoshairi. They are also looking for volunteers to step forward to lead rides.

Volunteers make things happen!

If you’ve ever taken advantage of a NSORRA rec ride, race, special event or a trail in Nova Scotia, consider becoming a volunteer yourself. Volunteer areas include: timing and scoring at races, sweeping during rec rides, special event tasks. We are even looking for someone to design a wrap for our new events trailer!

And remember to say THANK YOU next time you see a hardworking volunteer out on the trail!

To learn more about volunteering with NSORRA, contact Claudine at ed@nsorra.ca

2023 was a challenging hare scramble year, both for NSORRA and our members, and yet we persisted!

Winners, Sponsors and Landowners joined together for a group photo

Award Winners

This year, we had 152 unique racers making up a total of 415 competitors over the four hare scrambles for an average of 104 competitors per scramble. 48 of these racers competing in all four races.

Peewee winners

Our Peewee racers are between 6 and 9 years old. This season we had 13 Peewees.

School kid winners

In School Kid, ages 7-11, we had 15 competitors with 5 competing in all four races.

Super Mini Winners

In Super Mini, with riders 12-16 years old, we had 8 competitors with 5 of them competing in all four races.

Junior Winners

In the Junior class this season, we had 15 unique racers.

Intermediate B

This year’s Intermediate B and again it was our biggest class with 41 participants.

Women Winners

This year, though we started out with two Women’s classes, our participation numbers were low and we ended up merging the two classes for a total of 6 competitors. We are speaking with our Women riders and will be proposing a new class structure for next season.

Intermediate A

The Intermediate A class was our second largest class with 24 unique competitors with 5 competing in all four scrambles.

Plus 50 Winners

In Plus 50, we had 19 unique racers with 6 competing in all four races.

Expert class winners

And for our final race category of the day, we had 13 unique competitors in the Expert class with 5 of them competing in all four races.

Results by Class

2023 Hard Charger Award winners

This year we brought back an award that hasn’t been presented in a couple of years. It has been a challenging year for not just NSORRA, but also several riders. Whether it was a crash, a bike breakdown, a loss of a racing class, or a death in the family that knocked these riders out of Top 3 contention, we decided these five riders deserved to be recognized for their dedication and hard work this season.

At this year’s awards event, we presented the 2023 NSORRA Hare Scramble Championships HARD CHARGER AWARD which reads:

Every race is a question,

And you never know until the last stretch

What the answer will be.

That’s the lure of racing.

To:

• Riley Guthro, School Kid
• Keithan Wentzell, Junior
• Susan Foote, Women
• Lucas Ashford, Intermediate A
• Justin Lewis, Intermediate A

Thanks to Volunteers

Of course, none of this could have happened without our volunteers. Thank you for the work you’ve done. These races wouldn’t have happened without you volunteering to clear trails, set up the scramble courses, handling registration, volunteering in timing and scoring, acting as sweepers and of course, the NS Ski Patrol and Saint John Ambulance members who came out to support the events.

Shout out!

A big shout out to Justin Lewis and his company – Protocase Inc. for creating the wonderful trophies we presented at our hare scrambles and awards event this season.

Congratulations to all! See you next season!

If ever there’s been a Jumanji year, it was this one! Drought, fires, floods, hurricanes – we had it all!

A good start

We had a good start to the 2023 riding season. The sun dried out the trails early and by late April through mid-May, we were able to complete work and rides at all of our ride parks with the help of great volunteers from our NSORRA family.

We scheduled four hare scrambles dates – naming three: South Alton, Hiltz Road, and Craigmore, with a fourth location to be announced.

Then…Jumanji

The dry weather that we were excited about in April and May became…too dry. The drought meant we had to be careful in the woods. Then it happened…forest fires!

All across the province trails were closed as everyone focused on assisting in any way they could as out-of-control fires ravaged huge sections of the province.

When the rain finally arrived, we all breathed a sigh of relief. Until the rain didn’t stop, and we had to deal with another weather crisis…floods.

We ended up having the wettest summer on record with over 800 millimetres recorded in Halifax and on the South Shore and over 600 millimetres in the Valley.

The 2023 weather didn't do us any favours when it came to the riding season

Scheduled events?

We managed to sneak in a rec ride in Debert in mid-June then a women’s rec ride in the Annapolis Valley on Canada Day weekend, but could we get a hare scramble in?

Our first hare scramble, scheduled for mid-July at South Alton was postponed and rescheduled for two weeks later because of rain. As the new date approached, the Parkinsons evaluated their property and realized it wasn’t race-able because of the rain so volunteers jumped on board to prepare Hiltz Road for a scramble.

Finally – on the last weekend of July – we were able to hold our first hare scramble of the season at Hiltz Road followed by the Drive to Ride at Mill Hill – One Down.

We rescheduled the South Alton scramble for two weeks later. It was a VERY close GO – NO GO with the decision to GO made at 12:15 pm on Friday. The late decision meant our participation numbers were down and we had to shorten the afternoon races because of the wet conditions, but we were happy to close off on another scramble – Two Down.

Announcing our last scramble location

Halfway through the season – and almost at the end of summer – we realized that we needed to announce the location of the final scramble of the season.

The race committee discussed their options. One ride area rose to the top. Race Director, David Tobin, along with Nigel Brooks and Mike Ritter, had been working with David Beaver on his Economy Ride Park since late spring and they all decided it was time. The announcement was made that the final hare scramble of the season would be held at Beaver Ride Park in Economy!

Where are the trails?

The last weekend of August we headed to Craigmore Creek, Cape Breton. This ended up being the only scramble of the season that wasn’t cancelled but that doesn’t mean there weren’t any challenges.

When NSORRA President Josh Kelly checked out the park two weeks before the scramble, he discovered it was completely overgrown. Because of all the rain, riders hadn’t been using the park and the trails were almost non-existent. A call went out and volunteers stepped forward! They recovered the park over four long days of trail clearing…and Scramble 3 was a GO!

The forecasted rain held off until the afternoon before it started coming down in buckets, but volunteers and racers went for it and finished the day. Three Down.

More weather on the way

As we entered September, the rain continued off and on which raised the question – Will the Economy race go ahead as scheduled?

NOPE! Hurricane Lee made landfall on September 16 as a post-tropical cyclone about 135 miles west of Halifax. The storm affected a large portion of Atlantic Canada, with damaging winds and heavy rains that knocked down trees, flooded roadways and cut power to tens of thousands.

Another postponement meant 3 of the 4 scrambles this season were rescheduled because of weather. Our rain date was set for the October long weekend, and we held our collective breath. With warnings of another storm on the way, we decided to go for it.

Beaver Ride Park was amazing with both MX and enduro features built into the course. Not everyone finished, with bikes overheating and an unfortunate tumble leading to a hospital trip, but we did it – Four Scrambles Down!

Women In Moto

With rain predicted, we decided to bite the bullet and go ahead with our scheduled Women In Moto event on October 14 at Callus Raceway. We offered Intro to Dirt Biking sessions with coaches Josh Kelly and Mike Ritter, Intro and Intermediate Single-Track Riding with Kathleen Tobin and Intro and Intermediate Motocross with Brooke Johnson. By the end of the day, we had 20+ exhausted yet smiling women wearing specially designed t-shirts and looking forward to next riding season.

Hard Enduro Ride at Folly Lake

The last official ride of the season was also postponed by a couple of weeks by rain, but organizers Neil Jennings and David Tobin planned a challenging enduro event that was appreciated by advanced riders. Luckily, the beautiful fall scenery provided some comfort for riders challenging themselves on very difficult terrain. A great event to close the NSORRA ride season.

Thank you to our Volunteers!

We couldn’t have done it without the many volunteers who stepped forward to plan the events, prepare the trails, string the tape, jump in for timing and scoring, sweeping and the many other tasks needed to run a successful race series. Thank you all for giving back to the sport you love.

WE APPRECIATE YOU!

It’s time for the ladies to hit the trails and track at the 2023 Liberty CC-NSORRA Women In Moto event in conjunction with East Coast Women Offroad!

Here’s your chance to meet, socialize and ride with other amazing women and girls at Callus Raceway on Saturday, October 14. We’ve alternated the sessions for Beginner and Intermediate to allow every participant the opportunity to try all activities.

REGISTER NOW

What’s Happening?

The day will start of with a t-shirt for each registrant, before hitting the trails and track then pausing for a barbecue lunch and prizes before returning to the trails and track with some really impressive women riders. The day finishes with free ride time on the track and trails.

Here's what we have planned. It's a day you don't want to miss!

Intro to Dirt Biking session

Have you ever wanted to learn to ride a dirt bike? We have certified coaches on hand to teach you the basics during this mini-course (not the certificate course). Registered participants are guaranteed 90 minutes of group instruction time with a suitable loaner bike from the NSORRA fleet as well as all safety gear required (if needed). Make sure you reserve your spot by emailing info@nsorra.ca

Session 1: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Session 2: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Intro and Intermediate Single Track Riding with Kathleen Tobin

You have the basics down. Now you are ready to learn some trail skills. NSORRA coach and hare scramble competitor, Kathleen Tobin, will assist you in skill development so that you can enjoy your time on the trail. Kathleen is a Beta Canada racer and has been competing across Canada this season. Don't miss out on her tips and tricks!

Intermediate Single Track: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Intro to Single Track: 1:00 – 2:30 pm

Introduction to Motocross with Brooke Johnson

Riders have the opportunity to learn the basics of motocross with Maritime and National MX competitor Brooke Johnson. Riding since age 4 and competing since age 12, Brooke has learned through experience what it takes to master the track and is looking forward to showing other women interested in learning the basics. Brooke is a photographer in her spare time and looks forward to taking photos of each rider at the event. These will later be available for sale.

Intro to Motocross: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Intermediate Motocross Skills with Heidi Cooke

Riders have the opportunity to learn the nitty gritty of motocross with retired international MX competitor, Heidi Cooke! There is no better way to get a taste of the discipline and start to develop skills on the track than by being supported by strong female mentors. Come together with some like-minded ladies to wade into the world of MX.

Intermediate MX skills: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

The Trails are Your Playground

This is an excellent opportunity to try something new in a supportive environment dedicated to promoting all levels of women riding offroad motorcycles. The track and trails will be open for riding all day, except for during the scheduled MX Skills Sessions and lunch.

Details

NSORRA memberships are required for insurance purposes. Click here to purchase your membership.

We are looking forward to connecting with our community of strong women! So, get your NSORRA memberships, grab your girlfriends, and join us for some riding, food and fun!

October 14th, 2023

10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Callus Raceway, 370 Cross Road, Belmont, NS

For more info:

Phone: 902-233-2511

Email: info@nsorra.ca

Event Registration Fee $ 50.00 (includes t-shirt and BBQ)

REGISTER NOW!

A sunny day and beautiful trails in the Wentworth Valley were the perfect combination for 40 NSORRA members to enjoy an intermediate rec ride in northern Nova Scotia.

NSORRA participants pose with their MCC-Off Road Council emergency first aid

Introducing New Ride Areas to our Members

NSORRA began offering recreational rides in 2020 to introduce our members to new trails and to provide an opportunity to meet other riders.

Riders met up at the NSORRA-Fundy Trails Dirt Bike Club, part of the Fundy Trails Snowmobile Club (FTSC) at Folly Lake on September 9, 2023. To kick off the ride, participants were given a first aid kit donated by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada - Off Road Council.

Participants chose whether they should go in the faster or slower groups but were later combined, as everyone was able to ride at an intermediate pace. Riders visited Swan Brook Falls, Deer Rock Lookoff and most took a shot at the Pine Climb.

No One Left Behind

With such a large group, it was important to keep track of riders, so a system was put in place. The lead rider stopped at every intersection and asked the next rider to stay put to direct the other riders down the correct trail. The sweep rider - called such as they ride “clean-up” at the end of the group on the trails - would then have this rider join the group once they met up.

Riders were told that if they thought they were lost, to stay put until someone found them. This system was adopted from the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders (OFTR) with great success.

CrossRoads Cycle - NSORRA intermediate Rec Ride Folly Lake September 2023 - YouTube Video

Volunteers are the Key to Success!

Many volunteers make light work and lead to much enjoyment!

Scott Josey and Fred Eddy helped to map out the best trails for the event. The Swan family - David, Lukas, Jackson and Westley - helped guide the groups along with David Tobin and Rec Ride Director Neil Jennings. Several trained first aiders were available but luckily their skills were not needed.

The trails were in great shape thanks to over 900 volunteer hours put in by FTSC members clearing the trails after hurricane Fiona devastated the area in September 2022.

Thanks for coming out and remember to sign up for the Intermediate Hard Enduro Rec Ride also starting at the FTSC on 21 October 2023 if you feel up to the challenge!

Neil Jennings is the NSORRA Recreational Ride Director. If you have a trail area that you would like to invite NSORRA members to ride - from beginner to advanced - please reach out to Neil at neil.jennings@nsorra.ca

Fall is a wonderful time to hit the trails, but riders should always be aware of other trails users on multi-use trails.

Who Else is on the Trail?

Nova Scotia is full of beautiful trails and trail use increases as fall colours spread across the province. If dirt bikers are on shared trail, they could encounter walkers (possibly with dogs), bicycles, horses or ATV/UTV machines.

OHV-Specific Trails Etiquette

ATVANS has created an excellent pamphlet on trail etiquette which is specifically for OHVs.

NS Trails shares Trail Etiquette 101

In consultation with trail users, including NSORRA, NS Trails has developed Trail Etiquette 101 to assist users in creating a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

TRAIL ETIQUETTE PRINCIPLES:

1 - Expect Others, Respect Others

The number of people out on trails is rising fast! Depending on the trail, you might come across hikers, runners, bikers, ATVers, snowmobilers, dirt bikers, skiers, horseback riders, folks with mobility aids or furry friends. Everybody will have a different level of ability and experience - and that's okay! The golden rule is to treat each other with respect and kindness

2 - Pass with Class

When you meet someone on the trail, slow down and communicate. Give a signal that you're there, and then pass at a safe speed. A smile and a wave go a long way! There are standard guidelines for how to safely pass others listed below. Know before you go!

3 - Leave No Trace

Whether we realize it or not, the way we behave in the outdoors has a direct impact on the environment. There are simple things we can do to keep our impact smalt. Never leave trash or rood waste behind on a trail - it you can carry it in, you can carry it out.

Stay on marked, open trails. Always respect wildlife, plants and animals.

4 - Value the Volunteers

Trails don't pop out of nowhere. The majority of trails in Nova Scotia are built and maintained by volunteers. These folks are passionate about creating safe outdoor experiences for everyone in the community. A great way to show appreciation for volunteers is to take care of the trail and encourage others to do the same!

TRAIL ETIQUETTE RULES

• Trail safety is the responsibility of all users
• Wheels yield to heels – Motorcyclists, ATVers and snowmobilers yield to all other trail users
• Know and obey posted trail rules
• Stay on the trail and stay to the right
• Travel at a reasonable speed at all times, slow down at corners
• Give a clear warning signal when passing others
• Respect and be considerate of landowners along the trail
• Do not ride under conditions where you might damage the trail
• Do not litter, always clean up after yourself and your pets
• Use provided toilet facilities. If you are unable to find a facility, dig a hole 6 inches deep at least 200 feet from any open water
• Respect wildlife - do not disturb plants or animals
• Obey trail curfews (usually 10pm to 6am)

People on Dirt Bikes

• Know your ability, your equipment, and the area
  
• Obey speed limits
• Always yield the trail to hikers, walkers, those on horseback and less mobile trail users
• Announce your presence when approaching a trail user from behind
• To pass someone, follow at a safe distance until you reach a safe place to pass, then pass slowly
• Slow down when passing or approaching corners
• Do not ride under conditions where you might damage the trail
• Slow down when entering quiet zones or residential neighbourhoods
• Stay on the trail
• Do not ride on areas that are wet, have loose soil, steep slopes, meadows or swamps
• Avoid late-night riding near populated areas
• When camping, ride directly to and from your campsite or turn off your vehicle and push it
• Minimize noise through proper care and operation of your off-highway vehicle
• Stay off groomed snowmobile trails during the winter months

Final Tips

• Promote our sport. Take time to talk to the people you meet about your outdoors experiences.
• Know your limits. Ride within your abilities, in a controlled manner using common sense.
• Treat others the way you would like to be treated if the situation were reversed.
• But most of all, have fun!

NSORRA is thrilled to announce the signing of an agreement with Wagner Forest NS Ltd. This agreement gives NSORRA members access to 450 kms of trails on Wagner-owned and managed property throughout the province!

Working with OHV partners

NSORRA is joining our OHV partners, ATVANS and SANS, in realizing this access. ATVANS and SANS have used Wagner lands for a number years for OHV recreation and in establishing connectivity to and from other trail systems.

This is the first of what will hopefully be two trail access announcements this year.

Accessing the new trails

How do you access the 450 kms of new woodroad and trail now available to us? You use the ATVANS/SANS GIS (geographic information system). The directions below look complicated but do it once and you'll realize there is nothing to it.

The following map on the ATVANS website shows us the trails:

• Browse to https://atvans.wildapricot.org/maps_trails
• Click the Trails Under Agreement map to open the GIS

OR

Browse directly to the GIS at https://geomapix.ca/geomapix/maps/85817/atvans-public#

1. Scan the map for trails of interest in your area.
2. Click on the trail of interest. The trail ID property sheet will open.
3. Click the right arrow where it says Multiple Features Selected until the last page is displayed.
4. Trails without this right arrow are not Wagner trails.
5. This opens the Feature Info sheet.
6. Note the field called corpname on the bottom of the page.
7. If it matches any of the names below, then this trail is a Wagner managed trail and access is allowed.

• • Atlantic Star Forestry
  • Nova Start Forestry Ltd.
  • Wagner Forest NS Ltd.
  • EFO Canada Forestry Ltd.
  • HPM Nova Scotia Forestry Ltd.
  • Pelster Forestry Ltd.

Shared trails conditions

The conditions are simple around accessing these trails:

• Your offroad or dualsport bike must be red-plated and insured.
• You must be a current NSORRA member and your bike must display a current NSORRA sticker.
• Access is allowed on pre-existing trails and wood roads. This is not permission to establish or cut new trail.
• Take only pictures, leave only tracks.
• Be courteous to other users of the trails and especially the working woodlots.

Watch for the trail sign

Hope you enjoy the 450 kms of new trail access!

The 2023 NSORRA race season is coming!

Each year, the NSORRA race committee reviews the previous race season to improve our members’ experience and the series as a whole before revising the scramble rulebook.

The rule book is like a code of conduct that both NSORRA and race participants abide by, so it’s important that all members who participate in the race series be familiar with it.

2023 NSORRA Hare Scramble Rulebook link

2023 Promotions

Congratulations to the following riders who have been promoted for the 2023 season!

Junior to Intermediate B

• Ezra King
• Mitchell Curtis
• Carson Palmer
• Dillon Black

Intermediate B to Intermediate A

• Brycen Murphy
• Lucas Ashford
• Justin Floyd

Intermediate A to Expert

• Samuel Hines
• Caleb Lutz
• Brandon Curry

Women B to Women A

• Paige Milligan

Why do Scramble Promotions?

A healthy race series will have classes that show proportional growth at each level. When we see lower classes growing exponentially, with higher classes stagnating or shrinking, it’s an indication that the race series is in need of enforcement of policies put in place to maintain balance.

Riders are encouraged to self-promote to a higher class. At the same time, if a rider feels that their abilities are not up to their current class, they can contact the race committee through info@nsorra.ca to discuss the situation.

Looking forward to a fantastic

2023 NSORRA Hare Scramble Season!

Hiltz Road Park is located down the Annapolis Valley on a relatively flat location near the top of North Mountain

It has beginner, intermediate and advanced trails.

There is a small parking lot next to the road and an outhouse.

During the riding season this park can be accessed any time.

Directions to the Hiltz Road Park

Proceed on Hwy 101 to Exit 13

Turn on Hwy 12 heading north

Go to the stop sign in Kentville

Turn left on Hwy 1

Turn right at Cornwallis Inn onto Route 359

Stay straight on Rte 359 to the top of the mountain (approx 10 km)

Take the first paved left at top of mountain toward west Hall’s Harbour. This is Hiltz Road

Stay straight on Hiltz Road

2 km after the end of the pavement the parking lot is on the right

The Latitude and Longitude of the Hiltz Rd. Park is 45.140263, -64.675187

NSORRA members rose to the challenge when it came to recovering trail at Craigmore ORM Park on Sunday, August 20.

The Craigmore Ride Park Work and Ride on Sunday, August 20 started on schedule at 10 am and finished around 6 pm. There was a tremendous amount of whipper snipping and spacing saw work (clearing saw) completed. Volunteers were assisted by local contractor, Callum MacDonald, who tackled the heaviest work with his land-clearing equipment.

About 80% of the total park has been regained and we are hoping to have a few bodies on Thursday to continue whipper snipping in the central clearcut on the north side of the service road as well as around the practice track and the beginning of the kids loop up to the house. Clearing work is needed near the roadside and close to our sign to improve visibility of sight lines entering and exiting the park.

We had an excellent turnout by our dedicated members: Josh Kelly, Justin Lewis, Mike Ritter, Jens Sauer, the Cooper family including Dan, Vanessa, Eli and Leah as well as the Kaplan family including David, Julie and Justin who diverted from their trip to Louisbourg to work on the trails. Thank you for contributing your time and talents to NSORRA Ride Parks! We are a nonprofit and require a strong volunteer effort to allow us to offer our programs and events.

Two Work & Rides Left!

A second and third work and ride will take place on Thursday afternoon, August 24 starting at 2 pm and all-day Friday, August 25. Volunteers are always needed. Bring your whipper snippers, loppers and bush hogs so we can have Craigmore in great shape for the scramble and the fall riding season!

A guided oil and filter change, along with chain tensioning were on the agenda at our first Women In Moto Tech Night held at Liberty CC on Wednesday, August 2.

After visiting the shop to see their latest and greatest (shout out to owner, Tara, for keeping Liberty CC open late just for us!), participants took demo rides on the Surron Light Bee and Ultra Bee and checked out the Storm Bee in the window before relaxing in the store’s courtyard to enjoy barbecued hot dogs and hamburgers followed by Claudine’s homemade chocolate chip cookies.

Bike Work Begins…

Participants gathered around Liberty CC race director and instructor John Gallant as he demonstrated how to complete a dirt bike lube service. Then it was time for the women and girls to get their hands (and clothes) dirty while completing an oil change with tips from John along the way. Chain tensioning was next, and again John was on hand to demonstrate then provide advice as needed. Participants went home happy with bikes that were ready for their next ride on the trails.

What’s Next for Women In Moto?

It’s been a busy summer, but we’ve looking at a Liberty CC Women In Moto BBQ and Ride Day for the fall. More details to follow soon.

We are also planning another Women’s Rec Ride tentatively scheduled for Sunday, September 10. For more information, reach out to WIM Director, Paige Milligan at paige.milligan@nsorra.ca

To keep in touch with events for those who identify as female, please join East Coast Women Offroad on Facebook.

A wet and wild summer so far means that the trails at Craigmore ORM Ride Park are ready for a good trimming!

Cabot Powersports-NSORRA Hare Scramble 3 is coming up fast, meaning it’s time to hit the trails and trim them out for general riding and the scramble.

We are looking for you to bring your clearing saws, scythes, loppers, rakes and gas-powered whipper snippers to help clear overgrown trails and underbrush. We need lots of assistance.

Scheduled Work and Rides

Sunday, August 20 from 10 am – 4 pm

Thursday, August 24 from 2 pm – dusk

Friday, August 25 from 10 am – dusk

Let’s bring life back into the overgrown trails at Craigmore ORM Park!

Ladies – It’s time to get back on the trails and the Annapolis Valley is a beautiful place to start!

We are looking forward to connecting with our community of strong ladies! To make it more fun, riders are asked to carpool when possible. So, get your NSORRA memberships, grab your girlfriends, and join us for some riding, food and fun!

Who: Female single track riders

Where: Susan & Patrick Foote’s house, 2915 Prospect Road, Cambridge, NS, B0P 1G0

When: Sunday, July 2, 9:30 am meet

Why: Trail riding with an awesome group of women!

Register: https://nsorra.ca/events

What will you see?

This ride will be staged from the Foote family’s home. The route will take riders through open hilly fields with beautiful views of the mountain, and wooded trails. Riders should have trail riding experience and be ready to have some fun with a new group of riders in the beautiful valley landscape!

There may be some opportunity for riders to try out some more technical single track with the support of experienced mentors. The group will loop back to their start point to enjoy a barbeque with fellow riders.

Women's Ride Day Schedule

09:30 Rider Check In. Participation waivers must be signed.

10:00 Rider Safety Meeting: Safety and etiquette will be reviewed for the ride. Lead and sweep riders will be introduced and an orientation to the trail will be given so all riders understand what is to come on the day’s ride.

10:30 Kickstands up: Riders may be separated into groups to ensure they embark on the route appropriate to their level of ability and preference for the ride. Each group will start their led rides with sweep riders in place to assist/coach as needed.

12:00 BBQ lunch/social: Barbeque social is included in the cost of the ride which will include a hamburger or hot dog, snack, and beverage. Morning ride will end prior to the start of lunch, allowing riders to use the washroom and gear down as needed to allow for socializing time with the other riders.

Important Notes

• You must be an NSORRA member to participate in the Rec Rides. Go to https://nsorra.ca and click on Become A Member.
  
• All riders will meet at lunch for a barbecue consisting of a hamburger or hot dog and a drink. Please let us know if you have any food sensitivities.
• Bring a lawn chair and plenty of water and snacks for the day.

What’s Coming Up?

More rec rides are in the works along with several Women In Moto Tech Night events with our sponsor, Liberty CC in Dartmouth. An evening tech night is being finalized in July and we hope to continue these all year long. Bring your ideas and we’ll work to make great things happen!

Share your ideas anytime with our Women In Moto Director, Paige Milligan at paige.milligan@nsorra.ca

TITLE Sponsor

Soles in Motion

PLATINUM Sponsor

Cross Roads Cycle Sales

GOLD Sponsors

Shore Cycle and Marine

Cabot Powersports

Canadian Kawasaki Motors

Valley Yamaha-Suzuki

Truro Motorsports (Holeshot Sponsor)

Liberty CC Motorsports (Women In Moto Sponsor)

SILVER Sponsors

Jungle Jim's, Bayers Lake

Triple S Cycle Works

BRONZE Sponsors

Pro Cycle

Backman Heating and Cooling

RPM Cycle

The Sled Shed

Steele Recreation

Training Sponsors

Kynock Resources

Beta Canada/RPM

Supporting Sponsors

Callus Moto

Zoom Cleaning Products

Fly Racing

KKP Halifax

Partners

The Province of Nova Scotia

Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council

Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada

Remember to support these sponsors who support us!

Watch Out For Each Other returns as the theme for the annual Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May, promoted by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC).

NSORRA's Ruginski family

NSORRA's Ruginski family

“Motorcycles are back on our roads and trails in full force,” says Geoff Jilg, MCC Board Chair. Finding creative ways to remind riders across Canada – and throughout the global riding community – that we all have a responsibility to help keep each other safe, is our goal. Each Spring, we take this opportunity to encourage safe riding habits among all motorcyclists and among all road users.”
Interest in motorcycling has increased significantly over the past three years. Sales of all types of motorcycles are up by an average of 6.95% since 2020. Street bike sales were up an amazing 18.1% in 2021 and have stabilized to pre-pandemic numbers in 2022.

Back to basics when it comes to safety

NSORRA's Josh and Evelyn Kelly

All these new motorcycles mean that there are a lot of new and returning riders. “The young and young at heart riders are a primary target for safety messaging this year,” says Jilg. “Whether you’re joining the sport for the first time or coming back to riding, we want riders to be aware of all the things they can do to increase their safety.”

This includes a few basics: Get training. Practice your skills. Develop safe riding habits. Ride within your skill limits and according to conditions. These are the best ways to ensure you can safely enjoy the pleasures of riding. There are a number of excellent resources available to riders, many of which can be found on the MCC website (motorcycling.ca). Locate basic and advanced training from schools and certified instructors. Take time to familiarize yourself with your motorcycle.

NSORRA is leading the country with their dirt bike safety course. This year, we will be testing a national training program that our coaches, Josh Kelly and Mike Ritter, helped to develop.

If you haven’t been out riding for a while, reach out to an experienced motorcyclist and soak up their advice and tips - experienced riders are typically generous with their knowledge. They may remind you that in early Spring there is often gravel, debris and sometimes grass clippings on the roads; these can make cornering, braking, and stopping safely more difficult. And there’s #ATGATT - All The Gear All The Time. Wearing the right safety gear and appropriate clothing is a must for all riders.

Watch Out! Tips for better riding and driving

Watch Out! Tips for better riding and driving

Motorists are reminded to Watch Out for motorcycles on the road. May is the start of peak riding season and there are more motorcycles on our city streets, country roads, and highways. Take that second look to better judge the speed and distance of a motorcyclist in your vicinity.

Always check your mirrors and blind spots, especially before turning or changing lanes. Allow extra room to avoid cutting off a motorcyclist and allow extra space when driving behind a motorcyclist. Get in the habit of counting motorcyclists on the road – make it a game for your passengers! It’s an easy way to make everyone more aware of who they share the road with.

Let’s all Watch Out For Each Other all season long.

At the MCC, we are passionate about motorcycling in Canada. The voice of riders and racers alike, we facilitate the growth of our affiliated organizations and we value and maintain policies of accessibility and transparency.

Motorcycling is a vital part of our Canadian experience and an important form of transportation and recreation. Today, there are over one million motorcyclists riding on and off-road motorcycles across Canada. We are here “So You Can Ride”.

Each year, the NSORRA Board works to come up with great events for our members – from hare scrambles, to training to rec rides to special events.

That’s step one in the process. The next is the question about how we are going to pay for this programming. Fortunately, we have sponsors who believe in us and our members and who come forward to assist us financially to make things happen.

NSORRA's Top Sponsors

Returning in 2022 at the top of our list was title sponsor Canadian Kawasaki Motors. Their funding allows us to set the hare scramble series in place. The series is a big draw for our members who want to challenge themselves on varied terrain courses.

Following close behind is Jen Estabrooks and Soles In Motion. Jen and her team have been supporters of NSORRA for many years and are always there to support the association.

GOLD, SILVER and BRONZE Sponsorships

We kicked off the season in June will the Weekend at Mill Hill. GOLD SPONSOR Valley Yamaha-Suzuki’s Kirk Long teamed up with landowner Blaine Prest to sponsor the weekend’s events including the Drive to Ride and Women In Moto events.

Shore Cycle and Marine came in as a GOLD sponsor and sponsored the South Alton Scramble. Fred and Cathy are fun to have at our events. Their goal seems to be to make sure everyone has at LEAST one hot dog and drink. I think they probably achieved their goal while fundraising for Marijke Nel and her #conquestforcancer.

When it comes to the scrambles, everyone is familiar with GOLD sponsor Truro Motorsports. Randy McLeod donated the prized red holeshot t-shirts this year that were awarded to winners.

Beta at the Cord with Marijke

Beta Canada stepped into a GOLD sponsor position this season. Many thanks to Stephen Howland who sponsored NSORRA both on the race side and on the Recreational Ride series. Stephen and Beta Canada were also crucial to the success of Marijke Nel at The Corduroy. Beta support for NSORRA continues to be outstanding.

Liberty CC has also returned as a GOLD sponsor. Though time was not on our side for planning special events with them, they continue to support NSORRA. We are working with them during the off season for bike clinics at their shop and Women In Moto events, hopefully early next season.

Stuart Buck of Triple S Cycle Works is our superstar SILVER sponsor. If there is anything he can do to support NSORRA and dirt bike riders, he is there! From clearing trails to attending events and even acting as a sweep rider, we could always count on Stuart and his team to lend a hand.

Pro Cycle joined us as a SILVER sponsor this season. We missed them on site but they are always great to have a chat with at their store.

Our newest SILVER sponsor is Jungle Jim’s – Bayers Lake. And how did that happen, you may ask? Well it just happens that owner Bruce Skinner signed up on one of Josh Kelly’s first NSORRA dirt bike courses. He enjoyed it so much, he decided to jump on board with sponsorship!

We also gained a new BRONZE sponsors this season. Cabot Powersports joined us at Craigmore. We hope to see a lot more of Cabot Powersports in years to come!

Freedom Cycle also returned to us this season as a BRONZE sponsor.

We also have several other Scramble sponsors who we’d like to thank. The Sled Shed, 509 Offroad, Zoom Cleaning Products, Kwik Kopy Halifax and Callus Moto.

We would not have been able to put on our events without all the financial support from these sponsors. We ask all of our members to support these organizations that support us.

We are very proud to say that our members are key NSORRA sponsors as well. Perennial member Shereef Elkoshairi and The Reef Group joined us with a BRONZE sponsorship in 2022 because he’s just a great guy who wanted to show his support!

When it came time to redesign our scramble trophies, NSORRA member Justin Lewis and his company, Protocase Inc., stepped up and volunteered. The trophies were outstanding and much appreciated by our members.

This year we recognized Kynock Resources and NSORRA member Brent Pottle as GOLD sponsors. What can we say about this guy and his company? When we NEEDED somewhere to plant our dirt bike school, Brent answered the call. And he and Kynock Resources continue to support the NSORRA dirt bike school every step of the way. We had record-breaking training numbers this season. Thanks to Kynock’s support, we are growing the onsite challenges so that we can offer advanced skills for those who want to develop higher level skills. Thank you, Brent!

Funding Partners

We can’t forget our funding partners that ensure our parks are maintained and assist us with our staffing needs.

• OHVIF – the Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund
• CCTH – Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage
• COHV – the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council

Landowners

Finally, our landowners work with NSORRA to ensure there are ride areas available for our youth and all NSORRA members. They offer their land for events and even to support each other so that NSORRA can run its programming. THANK YOU!

A huge shout out to:

• Steve and Richard Parkinson of South Alton ORM Park

• Blaine Prest of Mill Hill ORM Park

• Leonard and Vincent Van Zutphen of Craigmore Creek ORM Park

• David and Sean Lacey of Hiltz Road ORM Park.

Thank You, ALL! We couldn’t have done it without you!

Another successful Canadian Kawasaki Motors - NSORRA hare scramble season!

We averaged over 100 competitors at each of our four events and had wonderful support from our sponsors, landowners, volunteers and members.

Round 1 - Craigmore Creek

Round 1 was July 16 at Craigmore Creek, Cape Breton which gave us time to prep the trails. Thanks again to all that take time to help us in the woods and at our events. Because we held our first scramble late, we had time in June set aside to do a few events that built towards the race season. The Women in Moto and Drive to Ride events were awesome, and helped get people out on their bikes and enjoying the amazing trails and track at Mill Hill.

Craigmore Creek is one of my favorite events. We encourage people to camp which really creates a good atmosphere with the mountain and trails on one side and absolutely beautiful ocean views on the other side. We had people arrive early and start to prep the trails as usual. The park has changed quite a bit in the last few years. We have been working hard to reclaim old trails plus build new ones.

We had over 100 registered riders for the event and the weather was with us. We couldn't have asked for a better race weekend, the trail/track was prime; the only real issue was the dust storm created at the start area. The race was a huge success, having little to no injuries to speak of and we really cleaned the place up.

Our great landowner was happy and we even had a local hotdog cart show up to feed the crew. The trails and parking area were left in better shape than they have been in some time.

Round 2 - South Alton

Round 2 was held on August 7 at South Alton and was hosted by the Parkinson family. A big shout out to these amazing landowners who are really true ambassadors of the sport we love, from cutting the grass to standing on the podium at many events over the years. Thank You!

South Alton is a gem of a ride park and keeps getting better. This year, the weather was on the hot side of the summer, the driest I have ever seen South Alton. It turned out to be the hottest weekend of the summer. The morning of the race, it was almost 30 degrees and continued to climb throughout the day, reaching a high of 42 with humidity and stayed there until 7pm.

Thanks to Shore Cycle & Marine for supporting Marijke Nel in her #conquest for cancer

More than 100 racers braved the heat and the course held up. It was fast and dry, the racers had to manage their output in the heat. Turned out to be an awesome day, super fun having great sponsor Shore Cycle and Marine on hand running a fundraising BBQ for NSORRA rider Marijke Nel for her #conquestforcancer and #LiftCancerFighters campaigns. Shore Cycle really knows how to show support of the association and they sponsored each of the top three winning riders in our Expert class. Great Event.

Round 3 - Hiltz Road

Round 3 was held on August 28 at Hiltz Road in the Annapolis Valley. Owned by the Lacey family, the property has been great and continues to expand and surprise the riders with varying terrain and conditions. It can get slick for sure, but it's a great trail through a beautiful forest.

Hiltz Road has tough parking limitations but we had a crew of amazing volunteers clean up the road sides. This helped the crowd of over 100 racers that came out to give it a go. The fans showed up and the area was buzzing.
The day was so much fun, the conditions made it tricky but fun and challenging at the same time. We even had an electric bike show up and make a strong showing in the Intermediate Class. The crew was hitting our stride and it really felt good to bring together events like this. Thanks to the NSORRA volunteers, racers and families that make these events possible.

Round 4 - Miller Meadow

Round 4 was held on September 17 at Miller Meadow. The weekend was set, the final race of the season. MMMXP is the closest park to the city, with quite a history of bringing the participants out. We set up the longest, and likely the hardest course of the season. We used the whole place, in the main event.

Miller Meadow race prep started early in the season to ensure they were ready for race weekend. Course prep was a fun day with really great help allowing us to put together an epic lap. We brought back the enduro cross section. It was a hit, especially when the School Kids and Super Mini kids who didn't have to ride it. But almost all did not only attempt it, they nailed it!

The rest of the day was full of fun and excitement. So many happy people, just enjoying the moment, testing their limits and pushing forward. The day was a huge success! Thanks to all the people keeping Miller Meadow in prime condition.

Timing & Scoring team: Meagan, Annette and Laura

2022 Hare Scramble Points Championships

A special thank you goes out to NSORRA Co-Race Director, Meagan Cairns for her work in Timing and Scoring. And thank you to the many volunteers who assisted her this season.

Here is a link to the 2022 Canadian Kawasaki Motors - NSORRA Hare Scramble Championship results.

We are in the process of booking the awards event. Tentative date is Saturday, November 5 (TBC).

Thanks again to all who came out for these events. It was a really good feeling to end a successful season.

David Tobin is NSORRA’s Vice President and Race Director. He is fantastic at building trail and putting together outstanding hare scramble events. His great personality and positive outlook have made him a favourite among his peers, especially those in the race community. Dave continues to be a vital member of the association. Thanks for being you, Dave!

Each year, the NSORRA race committee reviews the previous race season to improve our members’ experience and the series as a whole before revising the scramble rulebook.

The rule book is like a code of conduct that both NSORRA and race participants abide by, so it’s important that all members who participate in the race series be familiar with it.

After a successful 2021 race season, the rule book only required some minor updating. Here are the key areas that were updated:

• E-bikes can be used in the Pee Wee Class with a wheel size of 12” or less. STACYC bikes are not eligible for race entry. Any other type of electric bike proposed for race entry will be handled by the race director, on a case-by-case basis.
• Intermediate A class has a new updated race time of 120 minutes.
• The NSORRA board has updated the insurance section of the rulebook.

Bike plate requirements will be enforced

The 2021 Rulebook blog stated the requirements for number colour and backgrounds for each class and that it would be enforced going forward. For 2022, the rulebook now indicates how that enforcement will apply. A 2-point penalty will be assigned (deducted) from a riders point total at the end of a race if their bike does not display the proper number colours and backgrounds. This deduction will be applied to each race the participant engages in, with the incorrect displays.

Knowing which class a rider belongs to, while out on the course and proceeding through timing and scoring, is an important part of running a safe and efficient event. Riders can more easily identify who their competition is while out on the course with mixed classes. Race officials can quickly identify a missing or injured rider or one that may have broken race rules. Timing and scoring can more easily identify riders for manual scoring as well as knowing when a rider has completed their race as they approach the timing area.

Here is the 2022 NSORRA Hare Scramble Series Rulebook. We will continue to update the rule book as the race series continues to evolve.

Geoff Munt grew up riding dirt bikes in the Annapolis Valley. He is an active sweeper at hare scramble events.

The NSORRA race committee endeavors to keep the rulebook as up to date as possible and applicable to the realities of the race series, to ensure fairness and safety for all participants.

There are times that unusual circumstances or situations arise that require the committee to review, revise, or add rules to provide clarity and understanding where it may have been lacking.

We recognized an area that needed further clarification in order for all participants to have a better understanding of what can result in disqualification in unique situations. Appendix A – Infractions and Penalties has since been updated to reflect those clarifications, specifically sections 8 and 9.

8. Intentionally leaving the course – Disqualified

If a rider chooses not to continue the race for any reason but does not want to be scored as a DNF, they are asked to proceed along the course until they are close to the timing and scoring area, where they can park their bike in a safe spot that does not restrict the course or pose a danger to any other participants whatsoever. They must remain near their bike until the race ends and they can then proceed to ride through timing and scoring.

9. Intentionally leaving the course for the medical or mechanical reasons

In the event of a medical issue, if a rider exits the race course with his bike anywhere other than Timing and Scoring, it will result in a DNF.

1. A rider may only re-enter the race course at Timing and Scoring after being cleared by a medical and race official. In the event that the rider is 15 years of age or younger, parental/guardian consent will also be required.
2. If a medical incident occurs while on the course and the rider is unable to return to Timing and Scoring by following the course on his bike, the rider may re-enter the race from the place where the incident occurred (and bike remained) only after being cleared by a medical and race official. In the event that the rider is 15 years of age or younger, parental/guardian consent will also be required.
3. In the event of a mechanical breakdown or issue during the race:
   1. The rider must complete their lap through Timing and Scoring and exit the course there for repairs. If the rider wishes to re-enter the race, it is their responsibility to coordinate with Timing and Scoring so that race officials are aware that the rider is back on the course.
   2. If a mechanical incident occurs while on the course and the rider is unable to return to Timing and Scoring by following the course on his bike, the rider may re-enter the race from the place where the incident occurred (and bike remained) only after being cleared by a race official. In the event that the rider is 15 years of age or younger, parental/guardian consent will also be required.

You can access the updated rulebook (in a better format) at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jJof7Ucj-F8PKZCyIiXa6vkyy85KlAbD/view?usp=sharing

NSORRA is excited to announce that we have signed, with the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Change, an Offroad Motorcycle Trail Management Agreement in 16 Wilderness Areas throughout the province. This agreement will allow NSORRA members legal access to specific trails in these Wilderness Areas where the use and operation of OHVs is permitted. This agreement includes both red-plated bikes and blue-plated dual-sports.

NSORRA trail maintenance team required

This access comes with a price.

1. First, you must be a current NSORRA member (must be able to show proof - either a current membership sticker or card) to use the trails.
2. Second, in coordination with our OHV partners - ATVANS and SANS - we are obligated to assist in the maintenance of these trails. Various funding is available to assist us with this maintenance work.

We are now reaching out to you - the membership - to become actively involved in volunteering with trail management in all areas of the province. We want to establish a Wilderness Trails Maintenance Group. We anticipate coordinating one to two small projects per year and/or assist our OHV partners in coordinating larger projects.

Where are these Wilderness Areas?

• 7.5 km of trail in Gully Lake Wilderness Area
• 12.6 km of Old Coach Road and Fire Road in Five Bridge Lakes Wilderness Area
• 39 km of trails in Kelley River Wilderness Area
• 0.8 km of trail in Baddeck River Wilderness Area
• 11 km of trail in Medway Lakes Wilderness Area
• 4 km of trail in Polly Brook Wilderness Area
• 7.3 km of trails in Eigg Mountain-James River Wilderness Area
• 6.8 km of trail in South Panuke Wilderness Area
• 2.6 km of trails in Chignecto Isthmus Wilderness Area
• 2.8 km of trail in Calvary River Wilderness Area
• 5.5 km of trail in Wentworth Valley Wilderness Area
• River Philip Road in Economy River Wilderness area
• The Bypass Trail located on the Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia trail #104, in Jim Campbell’s Barren Wilderness Area
• Queensport Road in Bonnet Lake Barrens Wilderness Area
• Grant Lake-Ross Lake Connector Trail in Ogden Round Lake Wilderness Area
• Dominique Meadow Brook–Fountain Lake Connector Trail in Portapique River Wilderness Area

We need YOU to succeed!

Are you interested in being part of the Wilderness Areas Trails Management Group? We must be able to do our part to keep these trails open. Please email trails@nsorra.ca to become part of the NSORRA team. An enthusiastic maintenance group is key to the success of this project.

The Fundy Trails Snowmobile Club, our first NSORRA club, will manage the trails in the Wentworth Valley and Portapique Wilderness Areas. Please contact NeilJennings32@gmail.com to become part of the Fundy Trails team.

Neil Jennings, our longstanding Trails Director, is stepping down from that position but will continue in the portfolio of Director of Rec Riding in 2022. An avid dirt biker and snowmobiler, Neil enjoys riding the trails that run past his Wentworth area camp.

NSORRA moves its series to the Wentworth Valley in northern Nova Scotia. This event, sponsored by RPM Cycle and Beta Canada, is being hosted by Scott Josey and NSORRA Trails co-Director, Neil Jennings.

Registration

All participants must pre-register by Friday, October 8 at 8pm; there will be no onsite registration. To register, go to https://nsorra.ca/events

• $25 per Adult
• $15 per Youth (14 to 16 years of age, supervised by adult)
• $60 for a family (2 Adults, 2 Youth)

Public Health Requirements

As of 4 October 2021, NSORRA is required to verify proof of full vaccination of all participants for group events. All registrants must provide proof of double vaccination on site. Riders without proof of vaccination will not be permitted to participate, as mandated by NS Public Health.

Staging area and Route Description

This ride will be staged at 84 Lafarge Lane, Londonderry NS. https://goo.gl/maps/L8fADa1HcNDKAnBQ6

This ride will provide two route options: Novice and Intermediate/Advanced. All riders should be familiar with their bike, have trail riding experience, and come ready to meet new riders and explore new trails! Both routes have been laid out to provide alternate trails based on group preferences/technical abilities and each will provide beautiful scenery surrounded by the fall colours.

Novice Riders

Novice riders can expect a combination of tight woods trails, gravel roads and an introduction to single track with some sections including loose rocks, puddles and bridge crossings that will be accessible but challenging for most novice riders.

Intermediate-Advanced Riders

Intermediate-Advanced riders can expect a mix of wood roads and single track, with hill climbs rocks and routes that will be accessible but challenging for most intermediate riders. Mentors will be stationed to provide coaching and assistance as needed throughout the ride. This will ensure all riders are able to conquer their ride with confidence!

Ride Day Run Down

09:30 - Rider Check In: All riders will check in to ensure an accurate count for the ride.

10:00 - Rider Safety Meeting: Safety and etiquette will be reviewed for the ride. Lead and sweep riders will be introduced and an orientation to the trail will be given so all riders understand what is to come on the day’s ride.

10:30 - Ride Begins: Riders will be separated into their respective group to ensure they embark on the route appropriate to their level of ability and preference for the ride. Each group will start their rides with sweep riders in place to assist each as needed.

12:00 - 1:00 BBQ lunch/social: A barbecue social (hamburger/hot dog and beverage) is included in the cost of the ride. The Novice ride will end back at the staging area prior to the start of lunch, allowing riders to use the washroom, gear down as needed, and socialize with other riders. Intermediate riders will break for lunch at a separate location central to their afternoon ride.

1:00 – Intermediate ride continues. An optional guided ride for family/novice riders may also be offered.

3:00 - Ride end: All rides will end no later than 3:00pm, however afternoon ride times will vary based on location and group preference/ability.

Important Notes

• You must be a NSORRA member to participate in the Recreational Rides. Go to https://nsorra.ca and click on Become A Member.
  
• Riders without proof of vaccination will not be permitted to participate, as mandated by NS Public Health.
• Riders should have a well-maintained bike that is in top working condition with decent tires for the terrain.
• Please bring a travel mug and chair for the BBQ.
• All riders are strongly encouraged to bring water and snacks to keep fueled on their ride.
• All riders must be 14 and older due to the regulations of the NS OHV ACT.

Jillian Cross joined the NSORRA Board of Directors as a dual chair of Rec Riding and Women Offroad. She is a passionate rider who enjoys spending her free time on the trails with family and friends.

• Interested in trying out some new trails?
• Are your kids 14 or older and you'd like to explore some new riding opportunities as a family?
• Not looking to be the next Graham Jarvis or Megan Griffiths BUT you are a weekend warrior looking to meet some new riders?

Then the RPM Cycle-Beta Canada Fall Tour of Nova Scotia is the perfect series for you!

Check out new ride areas

NSORRA is looking to shake up their 2021 events with the addition of the RPM Cycle-Beta Canada Fall Tour of Nova Scotia Recreational Ride Series. This series has been designed to provide NSORRA riders with an opportunity to connect and tour trails that they may otherwise not have the opportunity to see.

These rides will be led by seasoned riders. Volunteers will be assisting along the route with technical issues, first aid, and to provide coaching or support in terrain that may be unfamiliar to riders.

Two route options and a BBQ

There will be two routes for each ride with all riders meeting up for a barbecue along the way!

1. The first route will be for families and novice riders who are looking for a ride that is manageable in length with approachable terrain. **Because these events are held outside of NSORRA's ride parks, all riders must be over the age of 14 and accompanied by an adult as per the NS OHV Act.
2. The second is for intermediate or more confident riders who are comfortable with a longer and slightly more technical terrain.

An event schedule including route length and what to expect along the way will be posted with the event sign up, so keep your eyes on the NSORRA Events page

Cost: $25 per adult, $15 per youth (14 to 16 years of age) or $60 for a family of up to five

Dates & Locations:

11 September Valley Tour (coordinated by Susan & Patrick Foote)

19 September Cape Breton Tour (coordinated by Justin Lewis & Kathleen Tobin) CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER

09 October Wentworth Tour (coordinated by Scott Josey and Neil Jennings)

Requirements:

• NSORRA memberships are required for insurance purposes.
• Youth 14 to 16 must be supervised by an adult as per the NS OHV Act

Ride Day

09:30 Rider Check In: All riders will check in to ensure an accurate count for the ride.

10:00 Rider Safety Meeting: Safety and etiquette will be reviewed for the ride. Lead and sweep riders will be introduced and an orientation to the trail will be given so all riders understand what is to come on the day’s ride.

10:30 Ride Begins: Riders will be separated into their respective group to ensure they embark on the route appropriate to their level of ability and preference for the ride. Each group will start their led rides with sweep riders in place to assist/ coach as needed.

12:00 BBQ lunch/social: Barbeque social is included in the cost of the ride which will include a hamburger or hot dog, snack, and beverage. Morning ride will end prior to the start of lunch allowing riders to use the bathroom gear down as needed and socialize with the other riders.

1:00 Intermediate ride continues (optional guided ride for family/novice riders).

3:00 Ride ends: All rides will end no later than 3:00, however afternoon ride times will vary based on location and group preference/ability.

We are looking forward to this exciting new opportunity to connect with our community. So get your NSORRA memberships, grab your family and friends, and join us for some riding, food and fun!

Please Note!

The NS OHV Act is currently under review to address out-of-date safety standards. NSORRA is working with the Department of Active Transport to ensure the interests of off-road motorcyclists are represented and that the Act reflects the current safety needs of the community. Stay tuned for future updates!

Jillian Cross joined the NSORRA Board of Directors as a dual chair of Rec Riding and Women Offroad. She is a passionate rider who enjoys spending her free time on the trails with family and friends.

NSORRA is kicking off this new recreational ride series in the Annapolis Valley; home to three NSORRA ride parks. This event is hosted by Patrick and Susan Foote who are also our representatives on the Board of NS Trails and sponsored by RPM Cycle and Beta Canada.

Registration

All participants must pre-register by Friday, September 10 at 6pm; there will be no onsite registration. To register, go to https://nsorra.ca/events

• $25 per Adult
• $15 per Youth (14 to 16 years of age, supervised by adult)
• $60 for a family (2 Adults, 2 Youth)

The event will be hosted by the Foote Family

Staging Areas

As per our previous blog - New Rec Ride Series: RPM Cycle–Beta Canada Fall Tour of Nova Scotia – there will be two separate rides based on skill level.

Family/Novice Route

Foote Family Farm: 2915 Prospect Road, Cambridge, NS, B0P 1G0

Parking is limited to 25 vehicles so registration will be closed when that number is reached. Riders are asked to carpool when possible.

This ride will be staged from the Foote family’s home and will take approximately 90 minutes to complete. The route will take riders through open hilly fields with beautiful views of the mountain, double-wide woods roads and beginner wooded trails. Riders should have trail riding experience on beginner trails and be ready to have some fun with a new group of riders in the beautiful valley landscape! There may be some opportunity for riders to try out some more technical single track with support of experienced mentors if they are interested and there is time.

The group will loop back to their start point to enjoy a barbeque with their fellow riders from both the family/novice ride as well as the intermediate.

Intermediate Introduction Route parking/staging area

South Alton Ride Park Longitude/ latitude: 44°59'58.1"N 64°31'36.4"W

Parking is limited to 30 vehicles so online registration will be closed when that number is reached. Riders are asked to carpool when possible.

This ride will be staged to begin at the South Alton Ride Park. The morning portion will take riders across the Valley using a series of ATV, powerline and fire road trails that will end at the Family/Novice staging area where the BBQ social will be held. Riders can expect to initially encounter a stretch of rocky and somewhat muddy terrain that may be a challenge for some. The terrain quickly opens for some powerline/fire road riding. This leg of the ride will take 45-60 minutes to complete.

The group will loop back to the Foote family home to enjoy a barbeque with their fellow riders from both the family/novice ride as well as the intermediate.

In the afternoon, the group will be led through the Foote family’s series of single and double track trail where riders will be challenged to overcome a variety of obstacles and terrain. The afternoon route will be adapted to rider skill level and preference following the morning ride. The terrain is varied with rock gardens, hill climbs and descents, tight terrain from intermediate to expert with lots of open ATV trails to break the ride up or provide an alternate route as needed. The length of this leg will be approximately one hour.

The ride will end with the 45-60 minute ride back to the South Alton ride park consisting of mostly fire road and powerline trails, ending with a short section of muddy/rocky terrain.

Ride Day Schedule

09:30 Rider Check In: All riders will check in at assigned locations based on skill level ride to ensure an accurate count for the ride. Participation waivers must be signed.

10:00 Rider Safety Meeting: Safety and etiquette will be reviewed for the ride. Lead and sweep riders will be introduced and an orientation to the trail will be given so all riders understand what is to come on the day’s ride.

10:30 Ride Begins: Riders will be separated into their respective group to ensure they embark on the route appropriate to their level of ability and preference for the ride. Each group will start their led rides with sweep riders in place to assist/coach as needed.

12:00 BBQ lunch/social: Barbeque social is included in the cost of the ride which will include a hamburger or hot dog, snack, and beverage. Morning ride will end prior to the start of lunch allowing riders to use the bathroom gear down as needed and socialize with the other riders.

1:00 Intermediate ride continues (optional guided ride for family/novice riders).

3:00 Ride ends: All rides will end no later than 3:00 pm, however afternoon ride times will vary based on location and group preference/ability.

Important Notes

• You must be an NSORRA member to participate in the Rec Rides. Go to https://nsorra.ca and click on Become A Member.
  
• The Valley Rec Ride has two start points, so please ensure you review the route information and select the best option for your riding ability/preference.
• All riders will meet at lunch for a barbecue consisting of a hamburger or hot dog and a drink.
• Bring a lawn chair and plenty of water and snacks for the day.
• Please note: all riders must be over the age of 14 due to the regulations of the NS OHV ACT.

Register now!

Day 2 of our Weekend at Mill Hill MX and Ride Park is our 12^th Annual Drive to Ride event!

The Annual Drive to Ride event kicks of the NSORRA season this year. We have returned to Mill Hill ORM Park, a beautiful and fun-to-ride park that includes an MX track and great trails as well as a wonderful area for camping and sponsor booths.

Valley Yamaha-Suzuki has returned as our event sponsor. Atlantic Canada's oldest Yamaha dealer is located at 1199 Parkway Drive, Port Williams, NS.

Thanks to our Sponsors

Besides having a free riding day for our members, this is also a thank you to our many sponsors who support NSORRA and its members. We ask that you please support them in return!

TITANUM Level

Canadian Kawasaki Motors - Hare Scramble Title Sponsor

Soles In Motion - Awards Sponsors

GOLD Level

Shore Cycle & Marine – Hare Scramble Sponsor

Valley Yamaha-Suzuki – Weekend at Mill Hill Sponsor

Liberty CC – Women In Moto Sponsor

Truro Motorsports – Holeshot Sponsor

Beta Canada and RPM Cycle – Scramble and Rec Ride Sponsor

SILVER Level

Pro Cycle

Triple S Cycle Works

Jungle Jim’s – Bayer’s Lake

BRONZE Level

Freedom Cycle

Shereef Elkoshairi – The Reef Group

General Sponsors

Kynock Resources

OnPoint Design

Perfect Powder Coating

Callus Moto

Zoom Concentrated Cleaner

509 Offroad

KKP – Halifax

Funding Partners

Province of Nova Scotia

Canadian Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund

What’s happening?

The day’s events schedule will include a NSORRA Dirt Bike School, a Trials riding competition, MX and trail riding as well as sponsor prize draws.

8:30 am Park opens for Dirt Bike School registrants REGISTER HERE

9:00 am Dirt Bike School Begins

9:00 am Park opens to Trials Competitors

9:00am – 12:00pm Trials Practice

10:00am PARK OPENS TO General Participants

10:00am – 12:00pm Trails are open

10:20am – 12:00pm The MX track will alternate classes every 20 minutes (Beginner, Intermediate, Expert)

12:00 – 1:00 pm ALL RIDING CLOSED FOR LUNCH, DRAWS and ANNOUNCEMENTS

1:00 – 3:00 pm Trails are open

1:00 – 3:00 pm The MX track will alternate classes every 20 minutes (Beginner, Intermediate and Expert)

1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Trials Competitions

Park manager, Blaine Prest, has opened the park for camping on Saturday night for $10 per tent/trailer. We will have three portapotties on site. Please bring a picnic lunch, water and snacks. We hope to host a fundraising BBQ but it is not yet confirmed.

This is a members-only event so make sure you pick up your NSORRA membership before you arrive at https://nsorra.ca and click on “Become A Member.”

If you can give some volunteer time to help at the event, please contact Claudine at gmnsorra@nsorra.ca

See you there!

• Do you identify as female and would love to try out dirt biking?
• Do you ride, and want to meet, socialize and ride with some other amazing women and girls who ride?
• Are you interested in trying Trials riding or would you like to gain some new skills on the MX track?

We are looking forward to connect with our community of strong Ladies! So get your NSORRA memberships, grab your girlfriends, and join us for some riding, food and fun!

Register by clicking here!

Have you ever wanted to learn to ride a dirt bike? We have certified coaches on hand to teach you the basics during this mini-course (not the certificate course). Registered participants are guaranteed 90 minutes of group instruction time with a suitable loaner bike from the NSORRA fleet as well as all safety gear required (if needed). Make sure you reserve your spot!

This is an excellent opportunity to try something new in a supportive environment dedicated to promoting all levels of women riding offroad motorcycles. We are so confident that you will enjoy your experience, that those registered participants who do the mini-course with our coach will have their WIM mini-course registration fee credited towards the full course if they choose to complete it during the 2022 season.

Robyn shows off her intermediate Trials skills

Intro to Trials

Trials mentors from across the province will be on site with a fleet of trials bikes to provide an opportunity for women to get a taste of trials riding. In the morning, basic skills sessions will provide riders with a chance to learn and refine skills that transfer to whatever bike they ride! The world of trials has much to offer and this is a great opportunity to learn more.

In the afternoon, intermediate riders will be given the opportunity to learn about the basics of trials, and apply their new skills to trials sections that will challenge what they know about line choices!

Again these sessions are first come first serve, so reserve your spot!

MX with Alexandra (Alex) Josey

Riders have the opportunity to learn about the nitty gritty of motocross with retired national level rider, Alex Josey who also happens to be a NSORRA Dirt Bike School coach! There is no better way to get a taste of the discipline and start to develop skills on the track than by being supported by strong female mentors. Come together with some like-minded ladies to wade into the world of MX. Make sure you reserve your spot!

The Trails are Your Playground

The track and trails will be open for riding all day, except for during the scheduled MX Skills Sessions and lunch.

Bring a picnic lunch and/or camp overnight to participate in the NSORRA Drive to Ride on Sunday!

Take a break and connect to other riders with a picnic among friends to refuel for an afternoon of riding.

The landowner is also offering unserviced overnight camping at $10/camp/night payable to the landowner for Friday and Saturday nights.

Date, Location and Details

25 June 2022, Mill Hill MX Park

101 Baines Road, Canning, NS

https://goo.gl/maps/piUFw6kgWwCm5vSb6

Requirements:

• NSORRA memberships are required for insurance purposes.
• Youth under 16 must be supervised by an adult as per the NS OHV Act.

This is the first event of a weekend extravaganza at Mill Hill MX Ride Park sponsored by Valley Yamaha-Suzuki!

Remember to support these companies that support NSORRA!

2-stroke, 4-stroke, dirt or street, trail or electric…

Women around the world saddled up their metal steeds on Saturday, May 7 for International Female Ride Day, including NSORRA members!

Several group rides took place around Nova Scotia, but WE think the group that had the most fun was the one hosted by Susan and Patrick Foote on their property near Kentville in the beautiful Annapolis Valley.

With Marijke Nel and Kathleen Tobin on hand to provide basic instruction, the group engaged in some static balance and clutch control practice before hitting the miles of trails.

Following a Talented Leader

One group was led by poster girl Kathleen Tobin, who combines skill, speed and poise with a good measure of Cape Breton kindness and patience while instructing fellow riders. Her pink riding pants and ponytail belie the crazy courage with which she attacks ridiculously hard obstacles and makes them look easy.
We all drooled over Emily’s brand new Husky 150 which Emily which didn‘t even have an hour on the clock before Saturday.

There were several thrills and spills and a good time was had by all. Patrick Foote was called out several times as the day’s riding included non-starting bike, one that kept cutting out, several “rescue” missions and even towing a bike out of the woods with his ATV.

Other females participated in IFRD across the province including the Horne family

Come Join Us!

NSORRA’s East Coast Women Offroad (ECWO) was pleased to be able to kick off a season with riders of as many different skill levels and temperaments as the differences in their bikes.
We would love to welcome more lady riders at future ECWO events and plan to run several more women‘s group rides this season. If you have a potential riding venue in mind, please let us know!

In the meantime, watch the NSORRA Facebook page and the website for the Women In Moto event which at Mill Hill Ride Park in the Annapolis Valley on June 25th!

Marijke Nel is NSORRA’s Director of Women Offroad. She is an avid dirt biker who is willing to learn and take on any challenge including Ontario’s Corduroy Hard Enduro, where she plans to compete in September.

Under that helmet, behind those goggles, is a person. A motorcyclist. A friend you haven’t met yet. Let’s all Watch Out For Each Other.”

— Chris Bourque, MCC Board Chair

Watch Out For Each Other returns as the theme for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, promoted by the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC). “Our goal is to remind everyone that motorcycles are back on our roads and trails in full force, and that we all have a responsibility to help keep each other safe," says Chris Bourque, MCC Board Chair. “We always want everyone to be safe. Each May, we take this opportunity to encourage safe riding habits among all motorcyclists and safe driving habits among all road users.”

NSORRA's Ruginski family

Growth in motorcycle sales

Interest in motorcycling has increased significantly over the past two years. Sales of all types of motorcycles went up by 8.45% in 2021. Street bike sales were up an amazing 18.1% last year, following an even larger jump in 2020, when lockdowns fueled sales for what could be considered the ultimate “socially distanced” form of travel and recreation.
All those new motorcycles mean that there are a lot of new and returning riders out there. “The young, and young at heart riders, are a primary target for safety messaging this year,” says Bourque. “Whether you’re joining the sport for the first time, or coming back to riding after an extended time away from it, we want riders to be aware of all the things they can do to increase their safety.”

Start with the basics

This includes a few basics: get training; practice your skills; develop safe riding habits; ride within your skill limits and according to conditions. These are the best ways to ensure you can safely enjoy all the pleasures of riding. There are a number of excellent resources available to riders, many of which can be found on the MCC website (motorcycling.ca). In Nova Scotia, it is the law to have your Dirt Bike Safety course and the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association is a leader in dirt bike safety training.
Take time to familiarize yourself with your machine. If you haven’t been out riding for a while, reach out to an experienced motorcyclist and soak up their advice and tips. Experienced riders are typically generous with their knowledge, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. And there’s ATGATT - All The Gear, All The Time. Wearing the right safety gear and appropriate clothing is a must for all riders.

NSORRA members should recognize these faces!

In conjunction with Watch Out For Each Other, this year’s campaign features faces of motorcyclists to reinforce the fact that when you see a motorcycle, either on the road or on the trail, you are actually seeing a person. NSORRA members are featured in this year’s offroad campaign. The Kelly and Ruginski families can be found in the shots wearing their safety gear. Bourque adds, “Under that helmet, behind that visor, is a person. A motorcyclist. A friend you haven’t met yet. Let’s all Watch Out For Each Other.”

Participate in the messaging

The Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month campaign is primarily shared through social media platforms of clubs and organizations across Canada, and by supportive media outlets in print and online.

This year, there are new tools to make it easy for individuals, companies and organizations to show and share their support. Filters, frames, and stickers that contain short messages and branding for the campaign are available on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. They can be added to profile photos or a favourite photo of your bike, and posted to show your support for motorcycle safety. By using these tools, you’re also reminding your friends, family and followers to do the same. With the help of the riding community, we hope to reach as many people as possible through this grassroots effort.

Let’s all Watch Out For Each Other all season long.

Josh and Evelyn encourage other riders to Watch Out for Each Other!

About the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada

The Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) is the voice of motorcycling in Canada. Our purpose is to create a better riding experience for all Canadians and to make Canada one of the safest countries in the world to ride a motorcycle.
Motorcycling is a vital part of our Canadian experience and an important form of transportation and recreation. Today, there are over one million motorcyclists riding on and off-road motorcycles across Canada. We are here “So You Can Ride”.

Class promotions are a normal part of organized racing, used as a means to balance the classes and increase rider skill levels. The 2022 NSORRA rulebook outlines how these processes are determined. This is an overall summary of how the NSORRA Race Committee determines who gets promoted.

How Do Scramble Class Promotions Work?

• The top 3 finishers in each class, with the exception of +50, Women and Expert classes, are automatically moved to the next higher level.
• The Race Committee then looks at the next racer(s) who finished close but may not have placed due to a crash or breakdown at a race or two. If their performance was within the top 3 finishing order with comparable lap times, they will also be promoted.
• If a racer competes and dominates in one race, they will be moved up if they return to a future race event.
• If any rider slips through the cracks and returns to a class where they dominate, they will be removed from placing in that class and disqualified, then will be moved up to the next class in any future races.

NSORRA notifies racers of class promotion through letters that are mailed to them before they are published in social media. Riders are free to appeal their promotions, however it should be noted that unless the promotion poses a hazard to the safety of the rider or to other riders, it generally won’t be considered.

If a rider refuses a promotion, they will be allowed to continue riding in the same class but without the ability to place or accumulate points, effectively making it for fun only.

A healthy race series will have classes that show proportional growth at each level. When we see lower classes growing exponentially, with higher classes stagnating or shrinking, it’s an indication that the race series is in need of enforcement of policies put in place to maintain balance.

Riders are encouraged to self-promote to a higher class. At the same time, if a rider feels that their abilities are not up to their current class, they can contact the race committee through info@nsorra.ca to discuss the situation.

Congratulations to the following riders who have been promoted for the 2022 season!

Junior Class to move up to Intermediate B

• Caleb Lutes
• Brycen Murphy
• Aiden Chase
• MacKenzie Ashford

Intermediate B class to Intermediate A

• Jens Sauer
• Austin Hines
• Dakota Coates

Intermediate A class to move up to Expert:

• Ewan Halfpenny
• Brennan Foote
• Riley Oliver

Note: All riders can pay and race more than one class but will only receive points for one class. For example, women who chose to race Women A and Women B will only receive points for the Women A category.

Geoff Munt grew up riding dirt bikes in the Annapolis Valley. He is also an active sweeper at hare scramble events.

Wentworth popular amongst rec riders

The Wentworth area is a popular riding destination for dirt bikers due to its elevation changes and untouched beauty. It is estimated that the summertime-use trails, managed by FTSC, total approximately 630 km. These trails extend from Earltown to Castlereagh, a distance of 50 km as the crow flies.

2021 NSORRA Rec Ride in Wentworth

NSORRA hosted a very successful recreational ride day from the FTSC clubhouse in the fall of 2021. The event included beginner and intermediate rides and showcased what the area has to offer. The event was so successful that the participants organized another ride in the area in the weeks that followed. The new NSORRA club will encourage more organized group rides in the future.

Riders at the 2021 NSORRA Wentworth rec ride

Growing NSORRA membership

NSORRA is recognized by dealers and government as the voice of dirt bikers in the province. Of course influence grows along with membership. The formation of this club will allow NSORRA to grow its presence in northern Nova Scotia as dirt bikers looking for trails in the Wentworth area join both NSORRA and FTSC to gain access to the trails.

As a club, FTSC educates their members on trail movement and encourages members to become compliant with provincial legislation and expectations of all stakeholders.

The formation of our first club will allow NSORRA to demonstrate and increase our contribution to linear trails, beyond the contributions that our members already make across the province.

Taking a break during the Wentworth rec ride

How to join FTSC

If you would like to join the FTSC, click on "Membership" in the following link: http://fundytrailsnowmobileclub.ca/.

There are two options on this page:

• Register with a $25 e-transfer. You will need to include a message that includes your email and your NSORRA individual or family registration number(s).

OR

• Register with a $27 (including the transaction fee) payment through PayPal. After you pay, send your email and NSORRA individual or family membership number(s) to Neil Jennings at NeilJennings32@gmail.com.

Once this is completed, you will then be members of the NSORRA club.

For an additional $10 deposit, members will receive key fobs for 24/7 clubhouse access except when the clubhouse has been rented for special events. Members will also receive club newsletters that will inform them of work and rides, rallies, meetings, recreational rides, and other events.

NSORRA hopes to continue growing access for its members through cooperation with other trail user groups through the formation of future clubs, possibly in conjunction with our OHV sister associations – ATVANS and SANS.

Neil Jennings, our longstanding Trails Director, continues as co-Director of Trails but will also take on the portfolio of Director of Rec Riding in 2022. An avid dirt biker and snowmobiler, Neil enjoys riding the trails that run past his Wentworth area cottage.

Each year, the NSORRA race committee reviews the previous race season to improve our members’ experience and the series as a whole before revising the scramble rulebook.

2020 proved to be a challenge for everyone due to COVID, but it also saw a large increase in event attendance. These “stress tests” show us areas we need to address, to keep things running smoothly, efficiently, safe and fun. With a need to reorganize the classes for better balance, it was time for the rule book to be revisited and updated.

Rulebook like a Code of Conduct

The rule book is like a code of conduct that both NSORRA and race participants abide by, so it’s important that all members who participate in the race series be familiar with it.

This year we made significant changes around rider classification, class structure, and length of time the afternoon classes run. The new rider classes and race times have been adjusted in an effort to stabilize the classes and competition.

Number plates colours adjusted

We adjusted some of the bike number colour requirements (Super Mini and Expert/Pro class) which will be enforced going forward, for riders to be quickly identified on the course and start lines. This increases the speed at which we can get things organized and helps riders know who they’re racing while on the course and who to flag off at the end.

We assigned one number for one racer to eliminate the confusion created by duplicate numbers and changed the protest process, making it much more user-friendly. https://nsorra.ca/article/one-racer-one-number (Note: We are starting from scratch for bike numbers this season. Please email gmnsorra@nsorra.ca to reserve your bike number.)

Our goal is to align the race series with how a traditional hare scramble is generally defined and run. It is something we will continue to improve upon as the series continues to evolve.

2021 NSORRA Hare Scramble Rulebook link:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YsCnLNIibeB8xtBZt_yRHg_9gxRMMZHh/view?usp=sharing

Geoff Munt, who put together the 2021 rulebook and wrote this blog, grew up riding dirt bikes in the Annapolis Valley while camping with family and friends and racing in the local ice racing series held on the lakes around the city. He got away from dirt bikes not long after turning 16 and finally came back to them about seven years ago, which is when he tried his first hare scramble at South Alton. Not long after becoming an NSORRA member, Geoff served a two-year term on the board and has consulted and served on the race committee ever since. He is also an active sweeper at hare scramble events.

Thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, a bridge is now protecting Tannery Brook and allowing off highway vehicles (OHVs) to legally cross this HRM waterway.

A collaboration between the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association, the Beaverbank ATV Club and local residents has resulted in the new OHV bridge crossing.

In recognition of the donation of decking boards and other materials by Kyle Ledwidge and Ledwidge Lumber, the group named the new structure Ledwidge Bridge after their benefactors.

These volunteers will continue their efforts to make this section of the Old Truro Road stagecoach route passible to all in Spring 2022. This includes water drainage improvements and the construction of a second bridge near Grant Road in Enfield.

Text on the Ledwidge Bridge sign

This crossing of Tannery Brook and the trail in either direction is part of the Old Truro Road. This road was the main route used by stagecoaches to connect Halifax to Truro and beyond. The road was constructed in the late 1700s and has considerable historical significance. The road is a public class K road owned by the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works and is therefore open to all users including those on motorized vehicles.

Grant MacLeod is NSORRA’s Trails Director. The Trails Committee is developing linear trail across the province. If you would like to participate in this venture, contact Grant at grant.macleod@nsorra.ca.

Fall 2021 was an exceptionally busy one at NSORRA and we didn’t get the chance to thank our 2021 sponsors so we’re doing it now!

Major Sponsors

Canadian Kawasaki Motors returned as title sponsor, thanks to Atlantic region rep, Bill Brown, who went to bat for us.

Soles In Motion returned as awards sponsor. They have been supporters of NSORRA for many years and we appreciate you! We can thank Jen Estabrooks for the beautiful year end trophies.

Perfect Powder Coating returned in a big way, with Denver Wearing handling the complete production and cost of our hare scramble medals and the powder coating of our trophies. Their work is excellent and we highly recommend that you visit them in Windsor if you need some powder coating work done.

Pro Cycle returned as our first scramble sponsor, this time at South Alton. Rob O’Brien and Kira McWilliams provided some great prizes and a nice presence at the event with their Pro Cycle van and tent.

Pro Cycle display at South Alton scramble

Between Thistle Hurt and Craigmore, we held our Drive to Ride event which had been postponed from the start of the season. Valley Yamaha-Suzuki’s Kirk Long teamed up with Blaine Prest from Mill Hill to host a fantastic event with 110 participants.

Our third scramble sponsor was Beta Canada. Many thanks to Stephen Howland, sponsoring both the Craigmore scramble and the Recreational Ride series along with Barry Josey at RPM Cycle.

Between our third and fourth scrambles, Tara Mills at Liberty CC sponsored our Women In Moto event at Mill Hill in September. We had a great turnout with a highpoint of MX training by Heidi Cooke, Trials riding, Training demos and trails riding along with a barbecue and prizes for all our participants!

Shore Cycle was our closing event sponsor at Hiltz Road. Besides some great prizes for our competitors, Fred Morgan and Cathy Gaudet brought a lounge furniture set with them for under their tent which provided a little fun relief space.

When it comes to the scrambles, everyone is familiar with Truro Motorsports. Randy McLeod donated the prized red Holeshot t-shirts this year that were awarded to winners.

New sponsor Stuart Buck of Triple S Cycle Works came to almost every event and donated several prizes during the season. It was great to have him there.

He joined Freedom Cycle in Halifax, 509 Offroad, Zoom Cleaning Products, Kwik Kopy Halifax and Callus Moto who helped us with our Sweeper and First Responder jerseys as well as the new Board jackets.

We would not have been able to put on the 2021 series without all their support. We ask all of our members to support these organizations that support us.

Funding Partners

And we can’t forget our funding partners who assist us financially with operational, training and trail costs:

• OHVIF – the Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund
• CCTH – Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage
• COHV – the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council

Thank you, Kyle!

In recognition of Kyle Ledwidge and his contribution to the dirt biking community, we presented him with a special plaque at the NSORRA awards event. The text on the plaque read:

The Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association and its members wish to thank Kyle Ledwidge for his long time, supportive partnership and passion in developing Miller Meadow MX Park as a safe and fun dirt bike riding destination for all ages.

Thank You from your NSORRA Family

Thanks to our Landowners

Thanks to out landowners in attendance - Blaine Prest, Kyle Ledwidge, Herb Harnish, Brent Pottle

Brent Pottle of Kynock Resources was recognized for setting up the NSORRA Dirt Bike School on his business’s property.

Blaine Prest of Mill Hill Ride Park and Herb Harnish of Thistle Dew Farm were recognized at the event with plaques for supporting the dirt biking community through use of their lands by NSORRA riders.

Three landowner families were not able to make it to the event but were also recognized. Steve and Richard Parkinson of South Alton, Leonard and Vincent Van Zutphen of Craigmore Creek and David and Sean Lacey of Hiltz Road were recognized as landowners working with NSORRA to ensure there are ride areas available for our youth as well as other NSORRA members.

Heading into the 2022 season

Our scramble schedule is in place and the race committee is meeting about promotions, classes and other details. We are rethinking sponsorship and plan on a new format for 2022. More details and opportunities to follow!

Looking forward to a great 2022 season!

What a year it has been!

Who knew when we held our wrap-up event last season that we would endure another year of COVID, and still be wearing masks and using copious amounts of hand sanitizer!

Preplanning at its best

We had a good start to 2021. Five hare scrambles were scheduled. We introduced new classes:

• Women A and Women B
• Intermediate A and B
• we moved from +40 to +50
• and we reintroduced the non-competitive Sportsman class.

Canadian Kawasaki Motors returned as title sponsor and Soles In Motion as our awards sponsor. Perfect Powder Coating joined the top echelon of sponsors. Other sponsors began to step up, too. Things looked promising.

Then another wave of COVID hit and everything was put on hold…again.

We delayed our June Drive to Ride and our first hare scramble. Then we heard that Miller Meadow had been sold. We hoped for the best but it just didn’t work out. We cancelled the Miller Meadow scramble so we were down to four scrambles for 2021.

And they're off!

Canadian Kawasaki Motors - NSORRA Hare Scrambles

We kicked off our Canadian Kawasaki Motors hare scramble season on July 25 with Pro Cycle Scramble 1 at South Alton. We broke the record for participants at this location with 121 racers. This included 10 in the Expert class!

Round 2 was an early trip to Cape Breton and the much anticipated Thistle Hurt scramble and enduro put on by Herb and Sharon Harnish. We had 108 participants. Big news at this one? 10 competitors in the Peewee class with four of them being girls! One of our goals is to grow female participation in the sport and this is definitely a good start.

Scramble 3 at Craigmore was sponsored by Beta Canada, and attracted 114 competitors including 12 in Expert. This scramble happened because of the hard trail work put into the site by volunteers lead by NSORRA President Josh Kelly after the landowner’s planned tree harvest in late spring.

We ended the season on October 2^nd with 107 participants at Hiltz Road with Shore Cycle as scramble sponsor. The ever-popular annual Shore Cycle barbecue raised almost $500 for The Portal, a local homeless youth shelter in the Valley.

By the numbers

This year, we had 173 unique racers making up a total of 450 competitors over the four hare scrambles for an average of 113 competitors per scramble. 52 of these racers competing in all four races.

Volunteers provide a helping hand

Thanks to the Volunteers!

These races wouldn’t have happened without volunteers clearing the trails, setting up the scramble courses, handling registration, volunteering in timing and scoring, acting as sweepers and of course the NS Ski Patrol members who came out to support the events.

And the Award goes to…

Bill Brown, Atlantic Canada rep for Canadian Kawasaki Motors and Jen Estabrooks from Soles In Motion presented the hare scramble awards as follows:

A Special Presentation

In 2018, Owen Reynolds placed third in Peewee in the scramble series and received his trophy at that year end awards event. Unfortunately, Owen’s trophy was lost in a fire that took his family’s home. On behalf of the association, we presented Owen with a replacement trophy. It’s not the same as the original, but we hope it will be just as meaningful.

REMINDER

All NSORRA Bucks winners are reminded to visit our sponsors to spend their Bucks before they expire on December 31, 2021.

They can be cashed in at:

• Soles In Motion
• Pro Cycle
• Shore Cycle
• Valley Yamaha-Suzuki
• Liberty CC
• Truro Motorsports
• RPM Cycle
• Freedom Cycle
• Triple S Cycle Works

See you in 2022!

PeeWee Winners

School Kid Winners

Super Mini Winners

Junior Winners

Intermediate B Winners

Women B Winners

Women A Winners

Intermediate A Winners

Plus 50 Winners

Expert winners

2020 was my first year as President. This is a fun community to be involved with. Despite the complex challenges of leadership, I am filled with satisfaction when I look around and see so many smiles; members young and old supporting one another. They know one another by name, cheer one another on, help with technical issues, car pool, volunteer, and provide insight and knowledge to me and members on our Board without prejudice. Lasting friendships for our youth, families and individuals from all parts of our province are forming and it feels good to watch it grow. Following is a summary of what we achieved in 2020.

First Quarter: January to March

It was important that we build new efficiencies in keeping up with our records and payment responsibilities to our stakeholders. Maintaining our relationship with Scotiabank, NSORRA switched to a fully digital banking platform. Email money transfers have been working much better, allowing us to make payments in a timely manner.

We reorganized our Board structure to allow increased autonomy for Committees. A more nimble Executive core increased the efficiency of decision-making and at the same time energized more volunteer involvement in spinoff committees (Race, Training, Trails, Women in Moto, website, social media, etc.). Each Committee was appointed a co-chair. This serves a dual purpose: it provides necessary support and protects NSORRA’s succession strategy. We were pleased to welcome two women to our Board who contributed in a very meaningful way.

NSORRA signed Claudine Laforce for another one-year term contract. Her service has been invaluable to the association!

Youth demo at the Moto Show

NSORRA, with its OHV partners - ATVANS and SANS - share involvement in the NS Joint Trails Strategy Group and participate in the NS OHV Presidents Council. Ongoing topics of discussion: inclusion in the Wagner Lands agreements, coordinated discussions on COVID response plans within the OHV community, licensing issues.

Early discussions with Megan Griffiths about offering training clinics in Nova Scotia.

Introduction of handlebar tags on all new and used motorcycles on dealership floors across the province. This is an important marketing tool for the NSORRA brand and our dirt bike school which provides the only dirt bike certification course in Nova Scotia to be OHV compliant.

Participated in the 2020 Motorcycle and Motorsport Atlantic Show, partnering with Honda Canada for demos for ages 6-12, promoting training, race, recreational riding, membership and our trials riding community. Kicked off our 2020 sponsorship campaign working with our network of dealers and stakeholders across the province.

Introduced a gender equality and antidiscrimination policy for the association.

Discussions with Shore Cycle on developing a training ground for dirt bike school and other related events on the South Shore.

Second Quarter: April to June

COVID-19 was upon us with the province in lockdown. The future of our 2020 public riding season was in question. Claudine and Josh took an active lead in maintaining relationships within the province to adapt to all public health requirements. Like many businesses, we learned to host and participate in meetings digitally and by teleconference. NSORRA was one of the first recreational organizations in the province to establish a COVID-19 plan.

While the province was in lockdown, NSORRA President, Josh Kelly, started an NSORRA backyard skills challenge on Facebook. Included were static balancing, log bumps, and tight dimension turning exercises. This was well-received by our membership and reached into our neighbouring offroad communities in NB and PEI. Men, women and children posted videos of their best efforts. It was a fun release in a very uncertain time.

Josh and Mike putting up Covid-19 signage at South Alton Ride Park

Hiltz Road, Miller Meadow and Craigmore Creek ride parks were cleared, serviced and ready for ridership on schedule when the Province allowed for trail workers to access the forests with social distancing protocols. Big thanks to our landowners and many volunteers (Josh Kelly, Dave Tobin, Mike Ritter, Adam Greeley, Patrick Foote, Grant MacLeod, among others).

We developed and erected signage for all of our managed trail system which was well-appreciated by our members and landowners. Thank you to sign maker, Peter Lawrence for his continued support of NSORRA. When NSORRA ride parks opened we were happy to report excellent compliance and adaptation to the new rules. We had a plan and maintained a consistent message which helped us manage people’s expectations of how to participate in our programs and events. This gave us the confidence to delay our race season rather than cancel it. It’s worth noting that MX cancelled all of their 2020 events.

Parks Canada staff using the Rokon during NSORRA dirt bike safety school

Training, by the nature of its class size and structure, was able to open almost on schedule in June. The 2020 season kicked off in Cheticamp, Cape Breton with an interesting opportunity to work with Parks Canada, providing class-specific training for their new two-wheeled Rokon utility vehicles. Six trail maintenance workers were cross-trained on the Rokon service vehicle and NSORRA’s dirt bikes.

Immediately following, concurrent courses were held at Miller Meadow and Craigmore Creek. In an effort to support our neighbouring offroad community (NBDRA), NSORRA coach Colin Kaiser, a resident of Fredericton, NB, offered to train in New Brunswick while our provinces were separated as a result of public health measures.

Also while our province was on lockdown in the first wave of COVID-19, Claudine Laforce and Meghan Cairns initiated the start-up of a social media Facebook group dubbed the NS Dirt Divas. Its intent was to harness some of the positive energy created by our FB backyard challenge. Getting more women interested in the sport was made possible by bringing pro rider and trainer, Meg Griffiths to NS to instruct riding clinics. Our women’s group has swelled to well over 100 ladies and has been a real success story for 2020!

Fun at the Beta Canada NSORRA Ride Park Tour!

Third Quarter: July to September

In July, an NSORRA sponsor, Stephen Howland of Beta Canada, and a few key volunteers initiated and participated in a promotional tour and fun ride challenge and an exposé of NSORRA ride parks. NSORRA director Mike Ritter championed a Facebook Live feed that had a wide following and invigorated our ridership to make the best use of our managed trail. The tour included NSORRA ride parks Hiltz Road, Mill Hill, South Alton and Miller Meadow, then to Cobequid Mountain Sports, our newly signed Thistle Dew Farm in Albert Bridge, Cape Breton and finished at Craigmore Creek Ride Park.

Megs Braap shows off her skills

With the support of our landowners - Kyle Ledwidge at Miller Meadow and the exceptional effort of the Harnish family at Thistle Dew Farm - we were successfully able to provide safe quarantine to bring nationally recognized female pro rider and coach Megan Griffiths to Nova Scotia to run three exciting (SOLD OUT) ride clinics. This could not have happened without the support of the local community including Juanita Currie at Enterprise Truck Rentals, Toys for Big Boys (dirt bike), and the Harnish and Kelly families for loaning their RVs.

Building the Craigmore outhouse

COVID restrictions continued to pose challenges to hosting races in July. But our race season was able to open successfully on August 15 in Craigmore. In preparation for the event, access to trail grants allowed NSORRA the opportunity to construct a permanent outhouse rest facility and RV dump onsite. This was made possible by generous volunteer support and in-kind involvement by the landowner, Leonard Van Zutphen. Special thanks to Josh Kelly and Allan Young for taking the lead in planning, gathering materials and construction. Thanks to members Trevor Pushie (Scotsville), Ray Poirier (Louisdale), Nigel Brooks (East Mountain), Denis Pelichero (Bedford) and Adam Greeley (Middle Sackville).

Following the Craigmore event, which saw record volunteer participation amidst the relaxation of some public health restrictions, we experienced increased interest in volunteer engagement for such things as developing an endurocross component to our rider membership at Miller Meadow and Thistle Dew Farm. Big thanks to Larry and Chantal McDowell, Kyle Ledwidge, Nick MacDonald, Herb and Sharon Harnish, Justin Lewis.

Recreational riding opportunities within NSORRA’s Dirt Diva group continued to grow with Jill Cross, Marijke Nel, Robin Harris and Bonnie Wilczynski leading the way. Thanks also to Dave Estabrooks for taking the lead in providing dedicated ride time for kids every Monday during Kids’ Night at Miller Meadow.

NSORRA Wednesday Night recreational rides at Miller Meadow had record numbers throughout the season. Thanks to Grant MacLeod and Grant Lingley for your leadership in this effort.

All of these events lead to record numbers in participation and NSORRA membership growth.

September and October were a blur of activity with three hare scrambles, the Drive to Ride, Women in Moto and multiple weekly training sessions provided by NSORRA’s dirt bike coaches.

Fourth Quarter: October to December

We held our annual hare scramble awards event in October. We were fortunate to have the Waverley Legion host the event in their hall which was big enough to hold all class winners and their families while still maintaining social distancing. Hare scramble series awards were presented by series sponsor Bill Brown, the Atlantic Canada rep for Canadian Kawasaki Motors and Jen Estabrooks from Soles In Motion who sponsored the awards event.

Bill Brown of Canadian Kawasaki Motors and Jen Estabrooks of Soles In Motion presented the awards

We are determined to be fully caught up with, and maintain, on-time fiscal reporting moving into 2021. This has been a significant challenge in the past for NSORRA due to many factors. With our Treasurer, Melissa Ruginski’s experience and determined contribution, we are closing in on our targets. Note: Without a doubt, bookkeeping will have to be farmed out to a paid agency and will be addressed before year end. A new firm has been identified and we are close to hiring them.

In November, we attended a Zoom update meeting with NS Department of Community, Culture and Heritage’s Ben Buckwold and Robin Norrie. They were thoroughly impressed that NSORRA had a successful season. Most provincial recreational organizations did not enjoy this success.

We are hoping to work with local suppliers Callus and Scott Lockhart (509 and Seven) to order swag that promotes our brand. Our hope is to recognize our volunteers and promote involvement while adding market visibility and awareness.

Wrap-up

NSORRA is looking forward with confidence to a bright future and is committed to working with Nova Scotia businesses, communities and government partners to keep with a theme that has become a signature of 2020: We are Nova Scotia Strong!

Kind regards,

Josh Kelly

President, NSORRA

dam

Flowing

Road Drying

Around the Corner

further along

Bog

up the hill

We get this question all the time.

The 2021 NSORRA event season has been fast and furious this year thanks to a shortened season and the addition of our Fall Rec Ride series. This means that the best way to post out hare scramble results is through Facebook.

Unfortunately, not all of our members have Facebook so here’s the solution: we’re posting the results link here!

https://onedrive.live.com/?authkey=%21AC2Ut4us%2DhNMoYw&id=6E03D748C695566B%211692&cid=6E03D748C695566B

The first folder is for season points totals with the other folders listed by class. Inside each folder are individual race results.

Shout out to Meagan Cairns, our Timing and Scoring Queen, for ensuring these results are tabulated quickly and accurately.

2021 has proven to be a challenging one.

Thanks to our volunteer NSORRA Board members, race committee members and other great volunteers, we’ve adapted and are moving forward with a fun season.

Besides our hare scramble series, we’ve included Trials competitions and a new recreational ride series that will allow our members to “ride the province” in a fun atmosphere that celebrates our NSORRA ride community. More on this to follow.

Students listening to Coach Josh Kelly giving instruction

Training

We are currently looking for training areas across the province. As a provincial organization, we want to provide a service to all our members, no matter where they live!

Due to a number of roadblocks (including COVID restrictions), we’ve been slow getting our training started but know that we are working hard to make this happen as soon as possible. President Josh Kelly, with the assistance of Kathleen Tobin, has run two courses in Cape Breton and is working himself back to the mainland.

We are also looking for a new home training base in or near HRM. If you have a lead on some available affordable land, please contact mike.ritter@nsorra.ca

NSORRA contacts

We have lots of information available in the website blogs, so please take a minute to review them to find answers to your questions.

If you have specific questions, here are your contacts:

Training: Mike Ritter mike.ritter@nsorra.ca

Trails/Membership: Grant MacLeod grant.macleod@nsorra.ca

Race: David Tobin vp@nsorra.ca

General questions: Claudine Laforce gmnsorra@nsorra.ca

Thanks to our Sponsors!

Of course, we couldn’t do what we do without the generous assistance of our sponsors. The best way to thank them is to give them your business.

Hare Scramble Title Sponsor: Canadian Kawasaki Motors

Awards Sponsor: Soles In Motion

Awards Supplier: Perfect Powder Coating

Hare Scramble 1 Sponsor: Pro Cycle

Hare Scramble 3 Sponsor: Beta Motorcycles

Hare Scramble 4 Sponsor: Shore Cycle

Holeshot Sponsor: Truro Motorsports

Drive to Ride Sponsor: Valley Yamaha-Suzuki

Women In Moto Sponsor: Liberty CC

Tour of Nova Scotia Recreational Ride Sponsor: RPM Cycle

Hare Scramble Sponsors:

• Triple S Cycle Works
• Freedom Cycle
• Callus Moto
• 509 Offroad
• Zoom Cleaner
• KKP Halifax

Funding Partners

• Canadian Off Highway Vehicle Distributors Council (COHV)
• Province of Nova Scotia
  • Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund (OHVIF)
  • Communities, Culture and Heritage (CCH)

What a year it has been!

When we planned our season way back in March, we had no idea what would be ahead of us for 2021. Luckily, we can always count on a fun time with our members at the annual Drive To Ride, now in its 11^th year.

Valley Yamaha-Suzuki is our event sponsor!

This year’s annual Drive to Ride, scheduled for Sunday, August 15, is sponsored by Valley Yamaha-Suzuki, Atlantic Canada's oldest Yamaha dealer, located at 1199 Parkway Drive, Port Williams, N.S.

Mill Hill ORM Park is set to host the event for the first time. It is a beautiful and fun-to-ride park that includes an MX track and great trails as well as a wonderful area for camping and sponsor booths.

The day’s events schedule will include a Trials riding competition, MX and trail riding, a few games as well as sponsor prize draws.

Park manager, Blaine Prest, has opened the park for camping on Saturday night for $20 per tent/trailer. We will have two portapotties on site.

This is a members-only event so make sure you pick up your NSORRA membership before you arrive at https://nsorra.ca and click on “Become A Member.”

Besides having a free riding day for our members, this is also a thank you to our many sponsors who are there to support the organization.

• Canadian Kawasaki Motors
• Soles In Motion
• Perfect Powder Coating
• Pro Cycle
• Shore Cycle & Marine
• Beta Canada
• Valley Yamaha-Suzuki
• RPM Cycle
• Liberty CC
• Truro Motorsports
• Triple S Cycle Works
• Freedom Cycle
• Callus Moto
• Zoom Concentrated Cleaner
• 509 Offroad
• KKP – Halifax
• Province of Nova Scotia
• Canadian Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund

If you can give some volunteer time to help at the event, please contact Claudine at gmnsorra@nsorra.ca

See you there!

Miller Meadow MX Park (MMMXP) is located in Devon, 15 minutes from the Halifax International Airport

The park has NSORRA woods trails plus a motocross track. An NSORRA membership is required to ride the trails. The motocross track is managed separately by the landowner and separate permission and fees are required to access it

There are beginner, intermediate and advanced trails plus a junior MX track available to play on

There is lots of parking on site and two outhouses

The trails and track are open at the discretion of the landowner which is normally Tuesday and Friday evenings and sometimes Sundays during the riding season. Check out the MMMXP Facebook page for openings

​

YouTube Video- Miller Meadow

YouTube Video -2018 NSORRA Hare Scramble Round 4 Intermediate - Miller Meadow

YouTube Video - Miller Meadow 2018 Start and (nearly) Full Lap

Directions to MMMXP

On Hwy 102 take Exit 5A for Aerotech Park

Turn right on Hwy 212E – Old Guysborough Road

Travel 13.5 km

Right on Miller Road.

1.6 KM down Miller Road – bare right at the fork.

You are now on the gated road to the Ride Park.

The Latitude and Longitude of Miller Meadow ORM Park is 44.904212,-63.38663

The landowner's website:

http://www.millermeadowmx.com/

Looking to meet new people and see new places? Join one of our fun rides, and we promise that will happen!

Riding dirt bikes is fun. It’s challenging, adventurous and fun. Did we say it’s fun? For many of us, dirt biking is a place we get to spend time with great people getting exercise. We’re seeing new places, taking on new challenges and once in a while we even stop to enjoy the beautiful scenery Nova Scotia has to offer.

YouTube Video - Hot and Slick Range Romp

Look to our event schedule for fun rides and non competitive events. These are fun times you won’t want to miss!

NSORRA and MMMXP regret that due to a late start in negotiations and a busy ride season already in progress, we were not able to finalize arrangements for our association this year at Miller Meadow.

MMMXP will maintain and manage the trails at the facility for 2021 instead of NSORRA. We look forward to maintaining open communication for a possible new arrangement for 2022.

Many great improvements continue to evolve at this amazing property. A lot of hard work and dedication are happening there daily. We are happy to see the trails in use. We encourage the dirt bike community to ride the trails and support MMMXP.

It’s that time of year again. The snow is gone and the woods and fields have started their transition to a drier riding season. With the warmer temperatures, we all want to get out and ride.

For some, this will be their first experience riding a dirt bike. No matter if you are brand new or a returning rider, NSORRA has a course that’s just right for you to hit the trails ready with your skills freshened up and a training validation certificate in hand.

Training required under NS OHV Act

Since 2008, the province of Nova Scotia has mandated that riders:

1. acquire certified basic dirt bike safety training
2. register their bikes, and
3. carry a minimum of third party liability insurance.

(See the NS OHV Riders Handbook)

NSORRA is Nova Scotia’s exclusive provider of dirt bike basic safety training. We have grown the school’s size and reach throughout the last decade. We are mobile and try our best to accommodate training demands across the province.

We continue to offer courses across the province including HRM, Cape Breton, Annapolis Valley, Yarmouth County, the South Shore and Northern Nova Scotia as demand requires.

Please contact us at info@nsorra.ca to let us know where you would like to see a training course offered. Our goal is to fill courses with an 8:1 student/coach ratio, so if you can assist in bringing a group together, that will help with bringing a course to your area sooner.

Students riding a figure eight with the coach

So what’s involved?

Dirt Bike Basic Safety Training is a one-day commitment. Our courses generally start first thing in the morning and run 5 to 6 hours. This is not a set schedule. A course of more experienced riders can take a little less time. We attempt to group families or similarly aged and experienced riders on courses together wherever we can. Gearing up and getting to know your bike with some introductory talking points on rider safety takes about 90 minutes, after which students can expect to be on their bikes.

Dirt bike school students receiving instruction at the NSORRA training area

The course is a proven and progressive building of knowledge and comfortability that is practiced repeatedly, leading to a great foundation for trail-readiness and safe handling of your dirt bike. Your skills will continue to grow and develop long after you’ve completed your training with us. Training is not just a fun experience with like-minded students; riders also get their required safety compliance certification and learn excellent foundational techniques.

What do you need to get started?

Bring a good attitude and readiness to learn in a small group setting. Our coaches are excellent at drawing out new confidence, making you feel good about yourself. There’s a great feeling to be had at the end of this day when you can look at your own progress from start to finish!

NSORRA’s 2021 loaner fleet is equipped for riders willing to learn the basics of clutch control, so it’s best suited for ages 10 and up. We do, however, welcome all riders from 6 years of age (a semi-automatic bike for youth 6-10 years may be available by special request, or you can bring your own).

All riders must wear:

• a full face helmet
• lightweight fitted gloves
• over the ankle, leather boots with a firm sole and good ankle support (moto boots preferred)
• eye protection
• long sleeves
• full leg covering

It's strongly recommended you also wear:

• knee/shin protection
• elbow pads
• chest and back protection
• a comfortable jersey
• moto/offroad durable pants

What else?

• If you have your own bike and it’s in good working order, bring it.
• Same for safety gear; bring what you have.
• If you do not have your own equipment, that’s okay, too. We’ve got you covered for the day at no extra cost.
• Please bring your own lunch, snacks and plenty of water. There is no store on site.

How much does it cost for the day?

NSORRA’s Dirt Bike School is a fully accredited, certified and insured event. The cost is $200 per person and includes a certified and experienced rider coach in a small class size for the best experience. Successful participants receive their Certificate of Completion as proof of NS OHV Act Basic Safety Training compliance. As stated above, we also offer use of a bike and equipment on an as-needed basis

Training courses will be listed on our events page and through Facebook beginning in late April/early May depending on ground conditions (training area should be dry).

NOTE: A reminder that you must be a NSORRA member to take the course (http://nsorra.ca then click on Become A Member). This will give you a year membership card and bike sticker for 2021 that will allow you access to the trails we manage.

We hope to see you soon!

Josh Kelly is NSORRA’s President and the dirt bike school’s head coach. Josh is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys every minute on the trails with family and friends, whether it’s off-road motorcycling, hiking, or mountain biking.

For anyone new to the race series, selecting the appropriate class can seem daunting, especially with all the different names of the classes.

Morning classes

All the morning youth classes are arranged in age groups, making it fairly easy to figure out what class you should be in, as well as knowing the minimum bike requirements for that class. The series is structured to allow a child to enter and progress naturally as their age, skills and bike size increases. Mixed classes include: PeeWee, School Kid, Super Mini. Girls 14+ can race Junior with the boys or jump up to the morning women’s class.

There are two women’s classes – A and B. The B class runs in the morning in a one-hour time slot on a shorter course. It is considered the entry level for women over 14. The afternoon women’s class runs 1.5 hours on the longer track and requires a more advanced skill level.

The new morning Sportsman class is a one hour non-competitive, non-points class for anyone who doesn’t fit into one of the youth classes and who wants to try out a race to see where they should go in a competitive class. This class can also be entered by anyone who wants to race for fun, without receiving any formal recognition for it.

Intermediate A and B

Intermediate B is for anyone that was in the old +25 class. This is generally considered to be the entry level competitive class for anyone older than the morning Junior class. This is NOT the class to enter if you have or are currently racing motocross. To be fair to all participants, if you enter this class and have a dominant performance (lapping everyone else), you will be removed from that class and not scored in the finish. You will also be automatically moved up to the next class for any future racing.

Intermediate A (formerly Intermediate) is a good starting point for any past or present motocross riders and experienced, fast woods riders. If you enter this class and have a dominant performance (lapping everyone else), you will be removed from that class and not scored in the finish, then automatically moved up to the next class for any future racing.

New Plus 50 class and Expert class

Plus 50 is an age-restricted class of very competitive and skilled riders. It runs a time equal to Intermediate A.

Expert class is where you go if you’ve raced motocross for a number of years or raced other off-road series and were very competitive. This class is for top riders and is appropriately challenging.

Questions?

If you have any questions about what class you should be racing in, please contact race director, David Tobin at vp@nsorra.ca. General questions can be directed to GM Claudine Laforce at gmnsorra@nsorra.ca.

Geoff Munt grew up riding dirt bikes in the Annapolis Valley while camping with family and friends. He served a two-year term on the NSORRA Board and has consulted and served on the race committee ever since. He is also an active sweeper at hare scramble events.

Each season, NSORRA prints a new hare scramble shirt. The design has become somewhat predictable…until this season! Enter the design talents of artist and rider, Courtney Lorraine.

Courtney getting tips from Megan Griffiths

2020 opened the door to new members

2020 was a turning point for many organizations, with COVID acting as a cloud over the province. Some, like Atlantic Motocross, made the tough decision to cancel their seasons. The NSORRA Board remained optimistic and delayed their season until August, when larger groups were permitted to gather outside.

Our first event of the 2021 season was a women’s ride clinic with Megs Braap. Several of the 12 women who attended were new to NSORRA. They were drawn by the opportunity to have a fun day of all women riders. Participation continued to grow throughout the season.

It was fate!

It was at Megs’ clinic where NSORRA Women Offroad Director, Jillian Cross met Courtney Lorraine. They both had new 2-strokes they had barely had a chance to ride. Jill showed Courtney where the offloading area is at MMMXP.

Friendships grew throughout the day as the women learned new skills together. All the women joined the newly formed East Coast Women Offroad (formerly NS Dirt Divas) Facebook page so that they could keep in touch. It was from here that Courtney reached out to Jill about designing a logo for the women’s group, which was eventually adopted and even made into a sticker.

When the topic of the 2021 NSORRA scramble shirts came up at a Board meeting, Jill immediately thought of Courtney’s artistic ability and approached her about creating a new shirt design. The Race Committee and Board are thrilled with the result and we believe our members will be, too. The 2021 NSORRA t-shirts are now in production.

2021 NSORRA shirts - adults in green,

youth in gray (due to stock availability)

Courtney in her own words…

My name is Courtney Lorraine. I’m a lady tattooer working at Lyle Street Tattoo Company in Dartmouth. I love making all different types of art. You can find me on Instagram @thunderroots and @tattoosbycourtney or www.thunderroots.ca.

I fell in love with motorcycles when I was 14 and got my first scooter. I drove that thing everywhere, all day, every day. Fast forward to today, I’m still riding. Currently riding a custom Harley1200 sporty on the streets.

I have a strange passion for going fast, something about that rush that just makes me happy. Figuring that out lead me to take the High Performance Riding Academy at the Atlantic Motorsport Park. That was the best decision I ever made, and made me feel beyond confident and comfortable on a motorcycle. I’m now racing a GSXR 600 and a NINJA 250. I can’t wait to hit the track again and smell that rubber!

I love the woods

I have a deep love for the woods. I grew up in the sticks of New Brunswick so when I’m in the woods it feels and smells like home. I’m ripping around on a KX85, my first two stroke. What I love most about it? It’s so light, when I go down (and that’s a lot), I can pick it up and whip it around like its nothing.

When I moved to NS, I did not know too many people in the dirt world. I joined NSORRA to find some people and ladies to ride with, take a clinic or two, and enjoy the access to some sick trails. Everyone has been beyond friendly to me, making me feel very welcome.

I appreciate it so much; thanks for being Rockstars!

How do I get a t-shirt?

The 2021 NSORRA t-shirts are now in production. The shirts will sell for $30 ($36 for 2XL+ special order). They will be available for preorder and pick up at hare scrambles or can be prepaid and mailed out for an extra shipping cost. If you are interested in ordering, contact Claudine at gmnsorra@nsorra.ca.

The trails at Craigmore Creek are part of a 400-acre parcel of land owned by the Van Zutphen family of Inverness County, Cape Breton. The park is situated along rising terrain off Highway 19, just 15.2 kilometers north of Port Hastings.

What's in a name?

Craigmore Creek has been part of the NSORRA family of ORM ride parks since 2010. It is a beloved destination for many who travel there for its varied slopes and winding pathways that challenge and reward riders with a rhythm that is part of the mystique and beauty of Cape Breton.

It has a regular dirt bike ridership of young locals who almost always stop by to say hello. Many ride directly from their homes via the shared-use section of the Great Trail that runs the length of the original Judique Flyer Train line. The “creek” at Craigmore was once the source for a water refilling line that kept a reservoir filled for the steam locomotives that serviced this important transportation link along Western Cape Breton.

That rail line, now a shared use trail, is an active corridor of cyclists, OHVs, walkers and horseback riders that gives hundreds of locals safe access to linear, well-marked trail that accesses neighbours, community water frontage, and destinations like Craigmore Creek Off-Road Motorcycle (ORM) Park.

NSORRA President Josh Kelly with the Craigmore Trails map

Property description

A practice track section on the lower left side of the property is accessed directly from the parking area. Ride direction is by default counter-clockwise unless otherwise posted.

A service road that runs perpendicular to the highway accesses a gravel pit that has intermittent use. The road should be traveled with caution as it is commonly shared by OHVs and occasional equipment operating to and from the pit area on the mountain top.

On either side of the service road, NSORRA has built and maintains an active system of trails that network climb and descend through the forest. When facing the mountain, the right side of the road is referred to as the South Side. The left is correspondingly the North Side. Naming each trail and posting signage is a NSORRA Trails objective for 2021.

South Side

The trail on the South Side starts at the far right corner of the property adjacent to the yellow gate. It follows a single track ribbon of undulating ascent all the way to where the trail exists and crosses a sharp hairpin turn on the service road. This trail can be ridden in either direction unless otherwise noted.

Please use caution and be respectful of rare but possible two-way traffic. There are several other entry/exit points along the trail for riders, walkers or EMS to access the road or trail.

North Side

The North Side trails have three main entry and exit points to/from the service road. The first access to the North Side is found shortly after crossing the small river about 300-400 feet past the top of the practice track. This is a 90 degree steep but short, rocky climb onto a nice single track that crisscrosses the fall line on the lower slopes of the mountain. Its switchbacks pull and draw up intermediate terrain with more challenging options for those ready to punch up steeper climbs.

There are sections of this trail that offer easier diversions as well, but riders should be prepared for brief pitches that require being smooth and confident on the use of throttle and brake. Within this lower slope of the North Side, there are loops wholly contained in the network that allow riders to stay off the service road and travel a ‘course’ of varied and challenges in the trail. There are occasional roots but larger rocks should be cleared often from the trail. The trail percolates well and rarely has water or mud issues.

Please be respectful and ride the dry line or wait until conditions improve to preserve our trail. Getting stuck, revving out or rutting the trail creates damage and hard work for volunteers.

Expert ride section

The second climb section of the North Side is an expert-only ride area because access is via three distinctly challenging climbs and descents. More confident riders will appreciate the opportunity to finesse these sections which we encourage riders to protect by riding within their ability. The very top of Craigmore Mountain has a rewarding loop that encircles a plateau ride zone. The views from here are stunning! Across the water is Cape St. George. The sunsets are incredible!

There is a large parking area that makes for easy staging and camping is permitted for NSORRA members. The Park has hosted annual hare scramble races, training events, destination ridership and NSORRA season finales. There is an outhouse on site as of 2020. Built by volunteers, it is clean and bright. Don't stare at the sky too long through the clear plastic roof; you might get dizzy! :)

This property promises to be good for those who can commit to riding this jewel in the NSORRA crown.

NSORRA’s President Josh Kelly, a proud Cape Bretoner, is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys every minute on the trails with family and friends. He particularly enjoys discovering new ride areas on the island.

We are all in this together. Let’s Watch Out For Each Other.

To say that the past year has been impactful for everyone is an understatement. One of the positive outcomes of the rollercoaster ride of living in a pandemic is that we have come to recognize that, now more than ever, we truly are all in this together. Just as the pandemic has made us aware that we all have our part to play in keeping ourselves and each other safe, the same applies to motorcycling, both on- and off-road.

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Canada and the United States. The Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) annual safety campaign message for 2021 is Watch Out For Each Other. We all have a responsibility to help keep each other safe on our roads and out on the trails.

MCC Chair Chris Bourque says “For the past five years our message to riders and drivers is that motorcycle safety is everyone’s responsibility. For 2021 we encourage all on road and off-road users to Watch Out For Each Other. Rather than adding to people’s sense of anxiety and feeling like we are being told what to do, we simply ask that everyone doubles down on being safe.”

Chris has a great point. Nobody wants to end up in the emergency room, but right now it’s more important than ever to do everything possible to avoid burdening our healthcare systems with a preventable injury.

As always, motorists are reminded to Watch Out for motorcycles on the road. May is the start of peak riding season and there are more motorcycles on our city streets, country roads, and highways. Take a second look to better judge the speed and distance of a motorcyclist in your vicinity. Always check mirrors and blind spots, especially before turning or changing lanes. Allow extra room to avoid cutting off a motorcyclist and allow extra space when driving behind a motorcycle.

Riders can look for ways to Watch Out For Each Other too. Motorcycling has enjoyed a significant increase in popularity as people look for ways to get fresh air, exercise, and a sense of freedom. There has been an uptick in commuting by motorcycle as it is a practical and environmentally responsible form of transportation. As of March 2021, MMIC, the Motorcycle and Moped Industry Council, reports double- and triple-digit year-over-year sales growth in Canada across all types of bikes, including Street, Dual Purpose, Competition, Off-Road Recreational, Mini Bikes and Scooters. So far this year motorcycle sales are up almost 75%.

There are many new riders experiencing the pleasures of motorcycling right across the country. If you’re an experienced rider, you can Watch Out for new riders by encouraging them to ride safely, ride within their skill limits, and according to the road conditions. Encourage them to wear “ATGATT” (All the gear, all the time). And don’t forget to direct them to the MCC website for great information and resources for Canadian motorcyclists.

The Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) is the voice of motorcycling in Canada. Their purpose is to create a better riding experience for all Canadians, and to make Canada one of the safest countries in the world to ride a motorcycle. NSORRA is an active partner with MCC.

The trails at Craigmore Creek are part of a 400-acre parcel of land owned by the Van Zutphen family of Inverness County, Cape Breton. The park is situated along rising terrain off Highway 19, just 15.2 kilometers north of Port Hastings.

What’s in a name?

Craigmore Creek has been part of the NSORRA family of ride parks since 2010. It is a beloved destination for many who travel there for its varied slopes and winding pathways that challenge and reward riders with a rhythm that is part of the mystique and beauty of Cape Breton.

It has a regular dirt bike ridership of young locals who almost always stop by to say hello. Many ride directly from their homes via the shared-use section of the Great Trail that runs the length of the original Judique Flyer Train line. The “creek” at Craigmore was once the source for a water refilling line that kept a reservoir filled for the steam locomotives that serviced this important transportation link along Western Cape Breton.

That rail line, now a shared use trail, is an active corridor of cyclists, OHVs, walkers and horseback riders that gives hundreds of resident users safe access to linear, well-marked trail that accesses neighbours, community water frontage, and destinations like Craigmore Creek Off-Road Motorcycle (ORM) Park.

Margaree Excavating assisted with clearing extra wood blocking the trails

Forest harvesting almost completed

Forest harvesting work is underway at Craigmore Creek Ride Park this spring. The change is monumental but don’t be disheartened. This plan was communicated to NSORRA by the owners and work to remediate the affected trail has been immediate and comprehensive. The repair to the staging area and top loop is on-going and will continue to improve throughout the season.

Please be respectful and ride the dry line or wait until conditions improve to preserve our trail. Getting stuck, revving out or rutting the trail creates damage and hard work for volunteers.

NSORRA member Jens Sauer and NSORRA President Josh Kelly check out the trails work

Thank you!

Many thanks go out to Margaree Excavating and the efforts of NSORRA volunteers from Cape Breton – Kathleen Tobin and Justin Lewis from Sydney Forks, Trevor Pushie from Scottsville and Jens Sauer from Marble Mountain – who helped NSORRA President Josh Kelly with raking, clearing, cutting and so much more.

Justin Lewis, Kathleen Tobin and Josh Kelly take a break after a long day of trail cleanup

2021 promises to be good for those who can commit to riding this jewel in the NSORRA crown.

Trevor Pushie and Kathleen Tobin

NSORRA’s President Josh Kelly is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys every minute on the trails with family and friends, whether it’s off-road motorcycling, hiking, or mountain biking.

Class promotions are a normal part of organized racing, used as a means to balance the classes and increase rider skill levels. The NSORRA rulebook outlines how these processes are determined. This is an overall summary of how the NSORRA Race Committee determines who gets promoted.

How Do Scramble Class Promotions Work?

• The top 3 finishers in each class, with the exception of +50, Women A and Expert, are automatically moved to the next higher level.
• The Race Committee then looks at the next racer(s) who finished close but may not have placed due to a crash or breakdown at a race or two. If their performance was within the top 3 finishing order with comparable lap times, they will also be promoted.
• If a racer competes and dominates in one race, they will be moved up if they return to a future race event.
• If any rider slips through the cracks and returns to a class where they dominate, they will be removed from placing in that class and disqualified, then will be moved up to the next class in any future races.

Plus 25 winners at South Alton 2020 scramble

Promotion Notices

NSORRA notifies racers of class promotion through letters that are mailed to them before they are published in social media. Riders are free to appeal their promotions, however it should be noted that unless the promotion poses a hazard to the safety of the rider or to other riders, it generally won’t be considered.

If a rider refuses a promotion, they will be allowed to continue riding in the same class but without the ability to place or accumulate points, effectively making it for fun only.

A healthy race series will have classes that show proportional growth at each level. When we see lower classes growing exponentially, with higher classes stagnating or shrinking, it’s an indication that the race series is in need of enforcement of policies put in place to maintain balance.

2021 Rider Promotions

Congratulations to the following riders who have been promoted!

Junior Class to move up to Intermediate B

• Noah Purvis
• Brennan Foote
• Ewan Halfpenny
• Adam Rozee

Old Plus 25 class to move up to Intermediate A

• Samuel Hines
• Colin Brimcombe
• Mark Baker
• Spencer Martin

Everyone else who competed in Plus 25 last season will be moved into Intermediate B this year unless they chose to ride in the new non-competitive Sportsman class (no points, no awards).

Intermediate class to move up to Expert:

• Herb Harnish
• Darryl Cull
• Daniel Cross
• Cole Comeau

Everyone who competed Intermediate last season will be moved into Intermediate A this year.

Note: All riders can pay and race more than one class but will only receive points for one class. For example, women who chose to race Women A and Women B will only receive points for the Women A category.

Geoff Munt grew up riding dirt bikes in the Annapolis Valley while camping with family and friends. He served a two-year term on the board and has consulted and served on the race committee ever since. He is also an active sweeper at hare scramble events.

Since the beginning of the NSORRA race series, the rulebook and overall class structure have remained virtually unchanged. The race series has grown exponentially, putting pressure on, and exposing areas that could use improvement.

The Race Committee has worked hard during the off-season to address a number of items, which resulted in an updated rulebook and a restructured race series, more specifically the afternoon classes.

Addressing Class issues in the off-season

In 2019, we made the move to age cap the Junior Class since we had riders 16 years old and older (a few in their 50s!) racing in that category. At one 2018 race, we had 40 Junior riders on the line, so we knew we needed to make a change.
We also introduced the +25 Class in 2019, meaning it to be a Sportsman Class, but we found that the overaged Juniors moved into the new +25 Class rather than Intermediate, so we ended up making +25 a competitive class.

This rider move from Junior to +25 was not what we had expected. It caused limited growth in the Intermediate Class and stagnation in the Expert Class. The +40 Class was only attracting higher level riders that were still competitive in Intermediate and Expert Classes. With yearly rider promotions and adherence to the rulebook, we should have seen increases in the Intermediate and Expert Classes, but we didn’t.

2021 brings new Classes

The old +25 morning class was never intended to be an overly large class with wide ranging skills and ages. This year we made it so all the (adult) competitive classes run at the same time, keeping the mornings for junior riders and the new Sportsman non-competitive, non-points class for newer riders who are looking for a safe entry point into the series.

The +40 Class has become the +50 Class as a means of keeping more of the still-competitive riders in their respective classes. The Intermediate A Class captures the previous Intermediate riders and the former +40s. The Intermediate B Class captures the former +25s as well as the promoted Juniors.

This year we focused on the redirection and growth of the Intermediate and Expert Classes in an effort to better balance the class sizes and level of competition in them, through enforcement of the rulebook, specifically around rider promotions and classification. The race times were increased to bring the race series more in line with typical off-road racing standards.

Finding the appropriate class for each rider

This year, there will be a focus on moving riders up into the appropriate class, if it’s determined that their race performance demonstrates that they’re capable of it. This primarily relates to a rider deemed to be “dominating” rather than competing or winning a race or class.

Off-road racing is just as much about pace and energy management as it is about technical skill. It’s the ability to balance both that keeps things competitive and challenging.

We wanted the series to be less of a sprint and more of a race. The Race Committee would like to emphasize that this will be a transition year for the series and participants alike. The classes will continue to evolve in a more familiar structure, as we achieve better balance in class size and competitive levels.

2021 NSORRA Hare Scramble Series Class Structure

Morning Classes Basic Info Time

Pee Wee 6 – 9 30 min class

School Kid 7 – 11 45 min class

Super Mini 12 – 16 60 min class

Junior 14 – 24 60 min class

Women B Beginner 60 min class

Sportsman Non-competitive 60 min class

Vintage See Rulebook 60 min class

Afternoon Classes Basic Info Time

Women A Advanced 90 min class

Intermediate B Former +25 90 min class

Intermediate A Former Intermediate/+40 105 min class

Plus 50 105 min class

Expert 150 min class

Refer to Rulebook for specifications

There has been a great deal of discussion and concern about Bill 4: The Biodiversity Act now before the Nova Scotia House of Assembly. The NSORRA Board of Directors has taken the time to read and understand the impact of this bill on our members and partners. We have also reached out to stakeholders and other partner organizations for information and a greater understanding.

NSORRA supports the protection of biodiversity in Nova Scotia, however we believe this can be achieved with existing legislative tools. We were concerned this bill could lead to landowners, who generously allow us to use their land, to withdraw permission in order to limit their risk resulting from the initial bill.

Changes to the Biodiversity Act

On March 23, the NS government introduced changes to Bill 4 - The Biodiversity Act to address concerns from provincial stakeholders and to ensure collaboration remains a key focus.

The changes remove biodiversity emergency orders, offences and fines from the Act, and limit the scope to Crown lands unless permission is given on private lands.

The Act allows the province to work with private landowners in a voluntary fashion to develop biodiversity management zones on their properties. The voluntary aspect of the proposed changes aims to help build trust in the new Act.

According to a news release from the province, "This legislation was always intended to be collaborative, with all parties working together to protect and sustainably manage biodiversity," said Lands and Forestry Minister Chuck Porter. "We are proud to be able to bring in a Biodiversity Act, and we are determined to get it right."

The next step in the legislative process is law amendments, where the committee will hear further feedback from stakeholders and individuals. The Act is expected to pass into legislation on October 1, 2021.

Consulting with our members

During the consultation period, NSORRA intends to speak to the concerns of our membership, to maintain access to trails, and to continue to have conversations with our stakeholders and the government. NSORRA believes in a balanced ecosystem including the responsible use and management of trails by the OHV community.

A few years back, we had the pleasure of attending the AGM for an ORV Council in Halifax. The meetings concluded with a mixed-use trail ride in the beautiful St. Margaret’s Bay area with Dartmouth’s Liberty CC providing demos on different off-road vehicles.

We covered varied terrain from rocky, twisting paths through the woods to dusty dirt roads. Despite skilled drivers and a slow pace, we still had one upset, without damage or injury thankfully. We encountered other vehicles, a small car and a couple of horseback riders along the ride and other additional hazards we had to be aware of.

Why worry about insurance?

Easy going right? We all feel like we’re good drivers, cautious and respectful of road rules. We’d never drink and drive. So why worry about insurance? Maybe your unit is pre-owned and not of great value, so you are comfortable with taking the loss should your vehicle be damaged beyond repair. So, you aren’t interested in physical damage insurance.

In some provinces, you must purchase accident benefits separately, but in Nova Scotia, you receive accident benefits by purchasing a Got Toys? liability insurance policy. This can help cover a one-time permanent injury (for example loss of a limb) or an injury causing life-long disability.

If I am a responsible driver, why would I need liability insurance?

Accidents are unintended mishaps. Liability coverage protects you from third party liability claims. If you have hit another operator or pedestrian causing serious injury or death, are you in a financial position personally to compensate them fully? It is essential that you maintain liability coverages to protect your lifestyle.

There are many crazy situations where you could be held liable. Say you are driving through a field during a dry season and your unit sparks a grass fire causing considerable widespread damage. Even though you weren’t in an accident, your actions inadvertently caused property damage that you might be held responsible for.

If someone were to borrow your unit and take it for a ride and injure a third party, you could be sued as owner of the vehicle even though you weren’t directly involved in the incident. People will try anything including a claim currently presented where thieves stole a client’s unit and the passenger got injured in an accident trying to flee. You might call it karma, but now the thief, despite being charged, is attempting to sue the vehicle owner for injuries.

Accidents happen

We’ve had a few tragic events in the last few years that resulted in a fatality. During a trail ride, one helpful person got off his machine to help guide people around the outside edge of a tricky area on a cliff. A rider coming up that path hit a bump and inadvertently squeezed the throttle, knocking the person off the cliff. Small incidents can have large and very terrible consequences.

Luckily, extreme claims like this are rare, but it certainly demonstrates how important it is to carry liability insurance. You might be surprised at how little it costs, compared to the coverage it can provide. In some provinces, it is mandatory to have liability in order to have the privilege of using beautifully maintained, multi-use trails like the one we rode on in Nova Scotia. It can provide protection and peace of mind for incidents that you may be responsible for; or others that are out of your control. It does not matter what your trail bike might be worth, but it is crucial to maintain adequate liability insurance.

Article by Melaney Bossaer, CAIB, Co-owner of Oasis Insurance and Canadian fiction author of “Beyond the 14^th floor”. Oasis Outdoor Adventure & Sport Insurance Solutions Inc. is a specialty Insurance provider in Canada.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, NSORRA is profiling women who have made a difference in our dirt bike community.

Marijke Nel

Marijke Nel

I met Marijke at the South Alton hare scramble in 2019. She was volunteering in Timing and Scoring. The first thing I noticed was that she was wearing a hat and seemed to have no hair; I wondered about that. This friendly, outgoing, energetic woman – could she really have cancer? I heard bits and pieces of her story over the next while and was amazed about what this woman was doing and her goals, including her #Conquest4Cancer. She is truly an inspiration.

Marijke, in her own words…

I grew up on a farm in South Africa. My dad taught me how to ride motorcycles when I was around 10 years old. I ripped around the farm on several different four-strokes until I left for a tennis scholarship in the US after high school.

I rode road bikes in Germany each year while visiting there to play tennis in the German summer league, starting in the early nineties.

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, I decided to take on a challenge which would do two things:

1. Give me an arena in which to push back boundaries and fear, so I could motivate myself to persevere through chemotherapy treatments
2. Raise funds to support the Canadian Cancer Society, which offers other cancer fighters the support I enjoy from close family and friends.

Coach Alex Josey and Marijke

I decided to start training for the Corduroy Enduro, “Canada‘s Toughest Race” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daTlYmYJaIE). Since the event was cancelled in 2020, my aim was to ride it in 2021. But another setback was about to hit.

In January 2021, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

On International Women‘s Day, I am in the cancer treatment centre, receiving my first of six chemotherapy treatments, which I hope to complete over the next 5 months.

More than ever, I am thankful for the community support I receive and I would like to continue raising funds for those facing similar battles with cancer.

Regarding the challenge of riding the Corduroy Enduro, Marijke says: “I‘ll be back on the bike to train as soon as possible, so I can support and encourage those sitting in the chemo chairs next to me right now.”

So far, the total amount raised for the Canadian Cancer Society totals $ 9,290 with 100% of the donations passed on to CCS and can be made here:

https://support.cancer.ca/site/TR?px=13089138&fr_id=27157&pg=personal

Jillian Cross

During the day, Captain Jillian Cross is the Regional Medical Liaison Officer for Canadian Cadets - Atlantic. But when she takes off that uniform at the end of the day, she puts on her mom hat…or her dirt bike helmet.

Jill and her dad

Jill, in her own words…

I followed in my dad's footsteps (our oldest rider, still going strong at 70) and got on my first bike (crf150) at 19. I started racing a couple years later.

My husband Dan and I started riding at the same time. He has always been my favourite riding buddy, but now he has become my biggest supporter as we navigate our way back to riding as a family.

I took 5 years off to have my two girls and thought that was it for the next 10 years. I was inspired to jump back in when I saw Megan Griffiths’ clinic advertised on the NSORRA Facebook page. I had previously participated in all-male clinics in trials in the past, and couldn't imagine how amazing the atmosphere of all ladies would be - turns out, it was amazing!!

I’m so excited to have enough support to be a mom and race, while connecting with awesome ladies!

After successfully pulling off the Women In Moto event last fall, Jill joined the NSORRA Board of Directors as a dual chair of Women Offroad and Rec Riding. She also actively leads the East Coast Women Offroad Facebook community.

Jill and her team are putting together the event schedule now, starting with our Women In Moto Day on Saturday, June 12. We hope to see a lot of women and girls there, enjoying and celebrating the dirt bike life!

Melissa Ruginski

I first met Melissa at hare scramble events where her husband and oldest son competed. Then her younger son joined in as he was age qualified. Finally, Melissa joined the hare scramble ranks, riding with the family trademark number 408. I got to know Melissa at the events, her sarcastic and funny comments adding some levity to the competition. Melissa joined the NSORRA Board as Treasurer in January 2020.

Melissa with her family

Melissa, in her own words…

I never had opportunities to get into any sports in my youth, let alone dirt biking. It wasn’t until my husband (David) decided to start riding dirt bikes again, that I even entertained the concept. I first started riding a street bike at age 40. Subsequently, my two sons (Sam and Alex) started riding dirt bikes and I honestly felt left out. So with lots of encouragement from my family, I decided to move out of the street and onto the dirt!

I feel like I am young again every time I ride. Being in the woods, in the dirt, challenging myself with every new trail, gives me a sense of living; I mean that will all sincerity. Every sense is awakened and you just can’t stop smiling. It’s euphoric!

I’m a commercial banker by day, and while those skills don’t exactly translate into dirt bike skills, I feel like I’m a better employee, wife, and mother after a day riding my dirt bike. I am a more confident woman since I started riding. I truly believe my sons will benefit from having a strong, dirt biking mom. And I can say with confidence, I have no intent to stop riding anytime soon!

Bonnie Wilczynski

Bonnie and her family

I met Bonnie in 2020. We chatted on the phone first, as she asked about an event. She was energetic and enthusiastic and willing to volunteer as needed. When I met her, she really proved to be a dynamo. She encouraged her kids to get on their bikes and give it their all. She did the same for NSORRA members as she encouraged them at hare scrambles with a word and a cheer. She stepped up to volunteer wherever she was needed and she continues to do so.

Bonnie, in her own words…

I’ve been riding since I was 6, starting with a Honda 50 with banana bike bars before moving on to bigger bikes. As a teen, I got my road bike license and rode a Kawi Ninja Zz6r 1996 in Quebec. In my 20s, I raced in Ontario in the Parts Canada AMA 600 Women’s Cup Challenge and with Pro Honda Oils series on a Kawi 636.

When I moved to Nova Scotia, I sold the supersport bikes and bought a Honda CR85 2006. I started riding with NSORRA in 2012, competing in a few rounds with my newborn in the pits. Now we are a dirt family of 4-1/2 (including our fur baby) and we all ride and compete with NSORRA (except for our furbaby). Chloé is 6 on a KTM-50, Charlie is 8 on a KTM-65, Craig is 44 on a KTM-300 and I’m 41 on KTM-105, but I still love my old-school 2-stroke Honda!

I’m grateful to have met so many amazing riders through my NSORRA activities. This year I’m assisting with social media for the East Coast Women Offroad Facebook page and working to increase participation of girls in dirt biking.

Robyn Harris

Robyn climbing logs

The legend of Robyn Harris preceded her. I heard stories about this woman in the woods who would take on any challenge on her bike, including riding a partially fallen tree lengthwise, even though her bike was much smaller than those of the men she rode with. They spoke with awe in their voices of this young legend.

I finally met Robyn at the Megan Griffiths clinic in 2020 when she took on the “shark tank” challenge and won it convincingly. I have since seen Robyn in action as a competitor and volunteer and have learned she excels at everything she does, whether competing, volunteering as a sweep rider or even playing with the younger riders during down time.

Robyn, in her own words…

I got to ride my first motorcycle when I was 16. My awesome Dad did the safety course with me, even though he already has a license. So far, I’ve learned dirt biking is hard!

Some highlights of the dirt bike course:

• I broke the clutch lever off within 15 minutes
• I was easily the worst rider there
• I cried because the instructor told me he couldn’t give me a license if I didn’t get it together
• I did get my license the next day regardless; my Dad didn’t leave the parking lot across the street for a week because I was genuinely pretty freakin’ terrible.

By 19-years-old, I was riding an RM 85 because apparently you aren’t supposed to launch moto jumps on your DR 200 dual sport (both courtesy of my awesome Dad). My new obsession was Nitro Circus and freestyle ramps.

That went about as well as the safety course:

• Nobody knew what gear you were supposed to be in on an 85 so I had to wing it
• I crashed a LOT
• I didn’t die, it was fun, and I’d do it again!

My newest obsession is hard enduro because scary is fun! You can find me volunteering at the NSORRA events or during the campfire shenanigans afterwards with the best people.

Contributed by Claudine Laforce, NSORRA’s General Manager. Claudine has been actively encouraging women and girls to join in the fun of dirt biking since she began with NSORRA in 2018.

NSORRA’s Representatives with the Nova Scotia Trails Federation

Susan and Patrick Foote are well known to NSORRA’s hare scramblers for their event participation and their wonderful race photography. They are also known as strong land stewards and trail advocates. It is their interest in trails that lead them to accept the volunteer position as NSORRA’s representatives on the NS Trails Federation.

Susan and Patrick introduce themselves

We enjoy nature and love getting out to explore new places and share experiences and destinations with others. Growing up on farms in the Annapolis Valley, we both have a deep commitment to land stewardship and trail development. We are avid enduro riders, hikers and all things outdoors. We regularly host group hikes, rides and adventures from our property year round, sharing the fun with like-minded friends.

We are keen trail builders and love knowing the history and stories of the land we develop and have the privilege to use. Current members of equestrian, running, hiking and enduro clubs, we feel shared trails can be safe and respectively enjoyed by all groups across our beautiful province.

We look forward to representing NSORRA at the table with the Nova Scotia Trails Federation.

This is the first blog in a new series about the volunteers who contribute to the growth and success of the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association.

Off-highway vehicles may be fun, but they are not toys.

Accidents happen

When you are riding through the woods, enjoying nature, have you ever been so caught up that you miss that tree or big rock in the path? Have you come upon riders unexpectedly riding the same trail in the opposite direction and towards you?

Often you can laugh off these mishaps, but sometimes these situations lead to serious accidents. If you or someone you hit is injured in an accident which leads to time off work or worse and you don't have insurance coverage, you could be in for a world of hurt in your wallet.

Insurance requirement in place since 2009

Nova Scotia residents operating off-highway vehicles on land they do not own or occupy must carry a motor vehicle liability policy. Coverage required includes third-party liability, accidental benefits and under-insured or non-insured coverage. The minimum amount of liability insurance required is $500,000 as specified in the Insurance Act.

In addition to the risk of injury, off-highway vehicles can do serious environmental damage, destroy crops, or harm private property. The restrictions placed on the use of off-highway vehicles are intended to lessen the potential for injury or property damage, without depriving responsible operators and their families of the benefits and pleasures of using off-highway vehicles.

If you would like more information on off-highway vehicle liability insurance, please visit the Department of Natural Resources website at: novascotia.ca/natr/ohv/ohv-insurance.asp

Some insurance brokers provide a discount for NSORRA members, including Oasis Insurance. Go to https://www.oasisinsurance.ca/ to find out more.

A joint message from the Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association and the New Brunswick Dirt Riders Association

To become the voice of offroad riding in each of our provinces, we need membership numbers to support it.
To this end, we have jointly decided to require membership in each province where you are riding and/or competing.

Beginning with the 2021 season, to ride or compete in Nova Scotia, you will be required to have an NSORRA membership (http://nsorra.ca, click on Become A Member). To ride or compete in New Brunswick, you will be required to have an NBDRA membership (https://www.nbdra.ca/join-us).

Thank you for your understanding and support of the offroad dirt biking associations in each of our provinces!

Signed,

Josh Kelly Jody Smallman

President, NSORRA President, NBDRA

464 competitors. 4 hare scrambles. A record 116 participants per event.

These numbers are impressive by themselves but when you consider these events were held during a pandemic, well…wow!

Women line up at Craigmore for the first hare scramble of the season

First up? Craigmore Ride Park

The 2020 Canadian Kawasaki Motors-NSORRA Hare Scramble season was late in starting with the first event cancelled and the second postponed thanks to COVID, but when things started up in August, KAPOW!

We started and ended the 2020 hare scramble season in Cape Breton. The weather was great for our first three events and appropriately challenging at Thistle Hurt.

Scramble 1 - Craigmore, sponsored by Honda Canada, kicked off the season in mid-August and proved to be an ever-popular event. It attracted members from all over Cape Breton as well as the mainland and even a few from New Brunswick and PEI.

MMMXP hosts Scramble 2 and Drive To Ride

Our second event, sponsored by Pro Cycle, was at Miller Meadow in mid-September and shared the weekend with the NSORRA Drive To Ride. The Saturday hare scramble included a few enduro features built into the course to allow riders to challenge themselves in a new way.

At Sunday’s Drive To Ride, members had the opportunity to chat with our fantastic sponsors and experience motocross track riding. A Trials competition opened the door to another dirt biking activity as well. This event also reinforced the family nature of NSORRA with participation from all age groups and skill levels.

Four vintage bikes competed at South Alton

South Alton for Scramble 3

Scramble 3, sponsored by Shore Cycle, was originally planned for Hiltz Road, but due to COVID and the space required to host an event during the pandemic, it was switched to South Alton which was originally scheduled to host Scramble 1 in June. Luckily, landowners Richard and Steve Parkinson jumped on board and ran an excellent event. Hats of to Hiltz Road landowner David Lacey for graciously understanding the reason for the switch.

Closing the season at Thistle Dew Farm

Thanksgiving weekend 2020 closed out the hare scramble season. Herb and Sharon Harnish put on a fantastic event at Thistle Dew Farm in cold and wet conditions. It was a challenging course that lead to a sense of achievement for the riders. It was followed by an equally popular hard enduro event that brought out the best riders from across the Maritimes.

Race Director David Tobin and NSORRA President Josh Kelly exchange a "high five" at Craigmore. These are two of the many NSORRA volunteers who have contributed to NSORRA's success.

Season highlights

We have fantastic volunteers! These races wouldn’t have happened without them volunteering to clear trails, setting up the scramble courses, handling registration, volunteering in timing and scoring, acting as sweepers and of course the NS Ski Patrol members who came out to support the events.

This season we had 16 PeeWees, five of them girls! Here are some future East Coast Women Offroad junior members!

We had 45 unique competitors in Plus 25 for a total of 93 racers over the four events. This was our biggest competitive group in 2020.

We added an Intermediate Women’s class and we registered 16 competitors at Miller Meadow between the two women’s classes!

We had four different competitors in the Vintage class with two of them competing in three of the four events.

2020 Canadian Kawasaki Motors-NSORRA Hare Scramble Points Championship Winners

2020 Hare Scramble Awards

The season was capped off by the Canadian Kawasaki Motors-NSORRA Hare Scramble Points Championship awards. Though COVID restrictions meant that only winners and their families could attend, we had a great turnout at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 90 in Waverley, NS.

Many thanks to sponsors Bill Brown from Canadian Kawasaki Motors and Jennifer Estabrooks from Soles In Motion for presenting the awards and to Keith Ramsey from Pro Cycle for stopping by to support the event!

Winners by category

* For complete results, click here. Table may not appear correctly on a cell phone

This blog was written by Claudine Laforce, NSORRA’s general manager.

Our sponsors are the grassroots of dirt biking in Nova Scotia!

What a year it has been!

When the NSORRA Board of Directors held their season wrap-up meeting in November 2019, we had no idea what 2020 would hold for us. We were building towards a full slate of sponsors and were looking forward to an outstanding 2020 season.

We were happy to put a five-race hare scramble series plan in place. After a year hiatus, Canadian Kawasaki Motors was returning as Title Sponsor and Soles In Motion became our Awards Sponsor. Other sponsors began to step up, too. Things looked promising.

COVID-19 arrives in Nova Scotia

Then, in March 2020, COVID moved front and center in our lives. We weren’t sure how long it was going to last, or how it would affect our season.

• We kept on top of Nova Scotia public health guidelines and recommendations
• We developed and placed public health signage in our ride parks
• In Facebook posts we challenged our members to try new skills when they were asked to stay at home
• All the while wondering if we were going to able to have a 2020 hare scramble season.

By June, Nova Scotia COVID cases were decreasing and things began to look a little more promising. We had cancelled our first hare scramble scheduled for June and had postponed the second, scheduled for July. Luckily, NSORRA volunteers had used the pandemic downtime to prepare the ride park trails across the province.

The Ride Park Tour crew having fun

NSORRA Ride Park Tour

Our members were ready to hit the trails but before we opened the parks, a member, who just happens to be with Beta Canada, came to us with a great idea. He wanted to do a reopening tour and mini-competition in NSORRA parks with a couple of friends. A big shout out to Stephen Howland and Beta Canada who brought fun to our membership during a trying pandemic period. In early July, Beta’s tour of NSORRA ride parks, including entertaining live Facebook updates, were a bright spot during tough times.

By early July, after discussions with our government partners and putting a pandemic opening plan in place, we decided to take the leap to start our hare scramble season in August.

The Hare Scramble season begins

We re-organized our race schedule and pushed ahead with our first event in Craigmore on August 15. We had no idea what the season would hold but our sponsors were there for us; every one of them returning to support us even though the future was up in the air for them, too.

104 entries.

That’s how many we had at Craigmore. And participation numbers remained high all season. 109 at South Alton, 104 at Thistle Hurt and a record breaking 149 participants at Miller Meadow!

This year, we added Thistle Hurt to our scramble schedule. The Harnish family and their support crew put on two amazing events over Thanksgiving weekend that have set the standard for enduro-cross riding in the province.

And they're off!

Hare Scramble Sponsors

Bringing it back to our sponsors who made it possible for our 2020 hare scramble season to happen, as mentioned Canadian Kawasaki Motors returned as Title Sponsor thanks to Atlantic region rep, Bill Brown.

Soles In Motion returned in a big way as Awards Sponsor. They have been supporters of NSORRA for many years and we appreciate you! We can thank Jen Estabrooks for sponsoring the beautiful medals and year end trophies.

Scramble Event Sponsors

We were very fortunate to have three sponsors step up for a second year as race sponsors:

Honda Canada sponsored the Craigmore scramble. They also generously provided the loaner bikes for our dirt bike school. This year they loaned us seven motorcycles of various sizes which, combined with the five bikes we own, allowed us to train 144 riders through the MSF Dirt Bike School and another 96 during special events like the Moto Show, Meg Griffiths clinics and Women in Moto for a total of 250 students this season!

Longtime NSORRA supporters Keith Ramsey and Rob O’Brien of Pro Cycle returned to sponsor the Miller Meadow scramble and provided some great prizes. Post-season, the training school Honda bikes headed to Pro Cycle to be sold.

Our third race sponsor was the always fun Shore Cycle crew. They returned for a second season, sponsoring the South Alton scramble. Prizes were numerous and there were many happy faces post-event as giveaways were handed out.

We also have several other Scramble sponsors who we’d like to thank.

• Perfect Powder Coating A big shout out to Denver Wearing who worked with a supplier to create our scramble medals and year-end awards and then donated his powder coating services!
• Miller Meadow MX Park provides our space for the Drive to Ride event
• Freedom Cycle
• APD Motorsports
• 509 Offroad
• Zoom Cleaning Products
• Kwik Kopy Halifax

And thanks also go out to our corporate members:

• Halifax Motorsports
• Bridgewater Honda Powerhouse

NSORRA-Liberty CC Women in Moto event

East Coast Women Offroad - NSORRA

In recent years, women have become increasingly interested in dirt biking and NSORRA wants to encourage this growing population of riders.

We created the NS Dirt Divas Facebook page and interest quickly grew as word got out there was a page just for women and those who identified as female to share their experiences, tips and to get involved in group rides. The page has already surpassed 120 members and the group has changed its name to a more inclusive East Coast Women Offroad. Liberty CC stepped up to become the NSORRA Women’s sponsor for 2020, providing prize money for the two women’s categories.

The future looks bright for female dirt bikers!

Wednesday night rec rides

The Wednesday night rec rides returned to Miller Meadow MXP for a second year and their popularity was through the roof with a high of 40 riders attending one evening. Many thanks to Barry Josey at RPM Cycle who was our recreational ride sponsor for 2020.

Funding Partners

We can’t forget our funding partners:

OHVIF – the Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund

CCH – Communities, Culture and Heritage

COHV – the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council

NSORRA members thank our sponsors

We would not have been able to put on this series without all the support from our sponsors. We ask all of our members to support these organizations that support us.

In 2020, our members did support local and the dirt bike business boomed in NS with reports that a year’s worth of bike sales were made in the months of June and July alone!

We don’t know what 2021 will hold yet but if we hold 2020 up as an example, we know there will be a great season coming up, with NSORRA sponsors playing a big part in our success.

Thank you!

This blog was written by NSORRA's general manager, Claudine Laforce

We are living in a new world today because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to you all for staying the course by following NS Public Health protocols. As a result of your efforts, we have been able to keep COVID-19 in check and we are able to run an almost full hare scramble season.

To ensure we can complete the season, guidelines have been put in place. We are following the guidelines of the province for putting on a safe event. Regardless of your personal opinions on the changes, NSORRA and its volunteers are asking for 100% compliance. Noncompliance will put our members, the race series and NSORRA at risk. We have a zero-tolerance policy. For everyone’s safety, guidelines will be enforced and those not following the guidelines will be asked to leave with no refund of their registration fees.

NSORRA Hare Scramble COVID-19 Operation Plan

The adherence and monitoring of the operational plan will be undertaken by all NSORRA board members and volunteers present at the event. Failure of any attendee to follow our event rules can result in immediate expulsion of their participant and pit crew from the event and possible disqualification of future events.

Hare Scramble Registration

• THERE WILL BE NO ONSITE REGISTRATION.
• You must be an NSORRA member to register. Go to http://nsorra.ca and click on Become A Member.
• Online registration and payment for all events can be found at http://nsorra.ca/events.
• Agreement to follow the COVID-19 guidelines and waivers will be done online during event registration.
• Registration for Craigmore will close at 8:00 PM on Wednesday, August 12 to allow for travel to Craigmore. No registrations will be accepted once the event is closed.

Public Health Signage

Public health signage has been installed at our ride parks, thanks to the efforts of Board members Josh Kelly, Grant MacLeod and Mike Ritter and many other hands. We ask that you follow the protocols put in place to ensure we all stay healthy to ride and compete again.

· If you are ill, do not attend the event. Return home and call 811.

· Physical distancing expectations (maintain 6 feet/2 metres)

· Hand hygiene – use hand sanitizer frequently

· Coughing and sneezing etiquette (into your arm)

· Cleaning and disinfection practices

· Play etiquette (e.g., no handshaking or loitering).

Screening of Event Participants, Pit Crew and Volunteers

• Only vehicles that transport the participant and their pit crew will be allowed on the event grounds. Vehicles that are not transporting a participant will be turned away at the entrance to the event and the vehicle occupants will not be allowed to enter the event.
  
• There will be a check-in at the entrance of the event. We will verify that the participant is registered, the class they are racing in and the bike race number. We will also need to record all pit crew names, and contact numbers. This is a government requirement.
• All participants and pit crew will need to answer a COVID-19 screening questionnaire. These are basic questions about your health, travel and contact with COVID-19 positive people in the last 14 days.
• If you are part of the vulnerable population at greater risk of severe effects of COVID-19 we ask that you take any additional precautions as recommended by our government or not attend the event. We understand that COVID-19 can be life threatening to people with underlying conditions that make them more susceptible to the virus’ effects. Please attend at your own risk.

Screening Questions

IF YOU RESPOND YES TO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING, PLEASE DO NOT COME TO THE SCRAMBLE.

1. Have you travelled outside the Atlantic Provinces in the last 14 days?
2. Do you currently have the following symptoms: fever (over 38°C), dry cough or difficulty breathing, aches/pains, sore throat, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, headache, loss of taste or smell, rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes?
3. Have you been exposed to a person who has a confirmed or probable case of the COVID-19 infection?

Physical Distancing Measures

• When parking your vehicle please leave room for physical distancing to occur between you and the neighbouring pit crew. 6 feet on each side is the recommended distance.
• All participants and pit crew must social distance from other participants and pit crews. If you cannot social distance you must wear a mask.
• Participants and their pit crew will remain at their pit location unless assisting their rider to the race meeting and starting line.
• Racers will keep their helmets on or wear a mask while attending the race meeting and the start line.
• Where physical distancing cannot be maintained (riders meetings and awards ceremonies), masks will be required for participants, pit crew, volunteers and board members.

Controls to ensure the safety of the event and attendees

Volunteers:

• All volunteers must physical distance or wear a mask.
• We will be screening screening all participants and guests.
• All volunteers must practice personal hand hygiene.
• There will be an assigned volunteer that will be responsible for the rules in place for a safe event.
• All sweep riders must keep their helmet on while assisting event participants while sweep riding. Masks will be provided for all sweep riders so that if they must remove their helmets they will be able to wear a mask.

Participants and Pit Crew:

• All participants and pit crew must stay in their bubble and social distance with other bubbles and volunteers or wear a mask.
• Participants and pit crew will be encouraged to practice personal hand hygiene.
• Participants will need to wear their helmets and pit crew must physically distance or wear masks at all times heading to the race meeting while setting up at the start line and waiting on the start line for the race to start.
• Participants and pit crew are asked to remain at their parking location prior to the race start.
• Participants and pit crew are encouraged to spectate from the sides of the race course but must maintain physical distance from other participants and guests.
• Participants and pit crew are strongly encouraged to leave the event grounds promptly after awards ceremonies are completed.

Facility controls:

• We will have a check-in/information desk with a 6-foot barrier at the entrance of the event.
• We will have a hand sanitizer station outside of the restroom to be used before and after using the restroom.
• There will be no high touch areas beside the restroom which will include a hand sanitizing station.
• There will be no registration on the event grounds and no exchanging of forms or money.
• We will have signage made for the entrance to the facilities and throughout the event parking lot.
• A six-foot barrier around timing and scoring is required.
• Only vehicles that are transporting participants or volunteer vehicles are allowed on event grounds.
• Parking will be provided so that physical distancing may occur between participant and pit crew bubbles.

Cleaning and Disinfection Procedures

• Bring hand sanitizer and masks with you. We ask that you practice good hand hygiene at the event
• Spray In, Spray Out: Portable restrooms and outhouses include bleach spray to sanitize the toilet area. After visiting the restroom, use the handwashing stations stocked with soap and paper towel found adjacent to the units.

Awards

• Awards ceremonies will include the participant and presenter wearing masks.
• Winners will wheel their bikes to the awards area and stay with their bikes in a triangle format with winner in front; 2^nd place 6 feet behind and to the left; 3^rd place 6 feet behind and to the right.
• If Holeshot winner has placed, they will receive their prize in the formation. If the Holeshot winner has not placed, they can bring their bike and t-shirt to the formation for photos.
• Presenter will give each award and step away for award photos. Masks can be removed is everyone follows physical distancing rules.
• There must be physical distance or mask wearing for all group pictures after ceremonies.

Final Words