The smell of gasoline and the sound of four-stroke engines were in the air, as the first Battenfelder Quad Rodeo since its creator passed away in late 2010, drew in a large crowd.
The 2011 edition of the quad rodeo was held as a memorial to the late Henry Battenfelder who passed away in December.
“He was looking forward to getting everything ready for the rodeo and seeing all the riders and campers enjoying themselves,” said Margaret Battenfelder.
Battenfelder estimated at least 150 spectators came out to share in the fun and to remember Henry, the man who helped start the annual tradition of camping and quads.
“It’s been such a great weekend. There’s been a few tears, but it’s been good. There aren’t as many teams as there were last year, but there is a lot more spectators this time around,” said Battenfelder.
Twelve teams took to the muddy tracks in the team events and obstacle courses to test their skill against fellow all-terrain vehicle riders from across the province.
On sunny, but cool spring days, the quad rodeo was staged on May 27 to May 29 at the picturesque Henry’s Hideaway/Batt Traps golf course and recreational area near Camp Creek.
Riders came out in teams of four from as far away as Cochrane, Red Deer and Lloydminster, Sask.
“We’ve been here as a team for three years now, and it’s always a great time. I know it’s tough for my team not to see Henry this time around, but we know he’s in a better place. It’s great that Margaret still put the event on,” said Corey Turner of Team Synic 3D from Red Deer.
Teams of riders compete in six events such as an obstacle course and a chuck wagon race. It’s a team sport that favours the driver above all.
“Anybody can win at any time. If a guy has a smaller quad than his competitor, there is a chance he could beat the bigger machine if he is a better driver,” said Turner.
By noon on Saturday, the course was littered with tire grooves and mounds of mud, posing a navigational test, but a fun one, for the drivers.
“It’s awesome out there. This is one of the best events I’ve ever been to. We’re coming back every year, it’s a very well-run event,” said Turner.
The steak supper scheduled for May 28 was the pinnacle for the weekend. It’s a time when the competitors and spectators recalled the memories from the day over dinner.
“We’re completely sold out for the steak supper. There are only 12 teams, but there are so many spectators that have come out to watch, like family and friends. There is also the people that heard about it and wanted to come out and be part of it,” said Battenfelder.
Although there were heavy hearts this year, the quad rodeo went off without a hitch, as people pulled together to make sure the weekend was a success.
“Henry would have just been so happy to see everybody together. It just seems that everybody has pitched in to help where we needed help. It’s just been really great,” said Battenfelder.
