ATV DIGEST
AMERICADE’S POWERSPORT RALLY
In the June 28, issue of Powersports Business, I mentioned the Americade’s Northeast Powersports Rally, which took place mid-September. The event attracted nearly 3,000 ATV and snowmobile enthusiasts to the Lake George region of New York.
The rally, the first of what looks to be many, combined a large consumer expo with six riding events. The expo was hosted in Lake George’s brand new trade show facility, and saw direct participation from Arctic Cat, BRP (Bombardier), Gas Gas, John Deere and Yamaha.
The riding events included two poker runs with nearly 200 riders; a mud bog, sponsored by Kenda USA, with over 500 spectators; an uphill giant slalom with over 130 runs taken; an ATV rodeo; and snowmobile grass drags, sponsored by Arctiva. Arctic Cat and Bombardier also offered demo rides on a specially-prepared demo course.
“We’re very pleased with the response,” said Christian Dutcher, event director. “We’ve already received inquiries from some major companies, wanting to sponsor the entire event in 2005, which is highly unusual for the first year.”
Planning for the 2005 rally is underway, including an expanded Expo and additional riding events. Dates for the September 2005 rally have yet to be announced. Additional information can be found at www.powersportsrally.com.
LIMITING FRIVOLOUS LAWSUITS
The U.S. House of Representatives passed House Resolution number HR-4571, named the Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act. The legislation targets baseless lawsuits and is aimed at curbing frivolous litigation initiated, in particular, by environmental fund raising organizations.
The legislation restores mandatory sanctions for filing frivolous lawsuits and require monetary sanctions against any party making a frivolous claim. The legislation must pass the Senate before it can become signed into law.
Often, environmental organizations often file lawsuits knowing there is no monetary repercussions to their actions. According to the ATVA, there are over 7,100 active environmental lawsuits being litigated in the United States.
ATV BEACH PLAY DAY FOR YOUTH
In Huntington Beach, Calif., CORVA and NOHVCC helped 750 “at-risk” youth between the ages of 8 and 17 learn the joys of OHVs. The two-day Southern California event, called Beach Play Days gives kids who rarely have opportunities for outdoor recreation a chance to have fun with ATVs.
This year’s event is the seventh year for the popular program. The event is sponsored by California State Parks, the State Parks Police Activities League and the California Police Activities League.
