Kirk Sutherland - Fast Man On Night 1 In Dawson Creek
Photo By Paul Easton

The weather was a little unsettling in Dawson Creek, British Columbia forcing the cancellation of night one of the Battle of the North. As a result, a new twist this year as there will be three wagons per heat for three days allowing all drivers to have an equal turn around the barrels, and then on the final night, the races revert back to its traditional four wagons per heat with a four wagon sudden death final to determine the 2013 Battle of the North champion on championship Sunday. What turned out to be opening night was run under a cool 17°C, and defending champion Kirk Sutherland came away with the fast time of the night with a 1:18.84.

From barrel number 1 in the 12th heat, Sutherland was the only driver to break the 1:19:00 mark and bested his nearest rival – Jason Glass - by 22 one-hundredths of a second. Kurt Bensmiller placed third, Rick Fraser was fourth and John Walters rounded out the top five on the night.

The top 4 drivers in the aggregate after Saturday’s run will go into the winner-take-all championship final heat where the winner will take home the 2013 Battle of the North Championship.

Day 2 of the Battle of the North starting will run on Friday, August 9, 2013 and can be heard live starting at 7:30pm (MST) on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville

Kurt Bensmiller - First In Every Category On Night 2 In Dawson Creek
Photo By Paul Easton

The sun was shining on Dawson Creek, British Columbia as night 2 of the 2013 Battle of the North championship was run under a warm 23°C and a few clouds. Some great races were witnessed by the large crowd, and 2007 Battle of the North champion Kurt Bensmiller that came away with the fast time of the race meet so far with a 1:17.71.

From barrel number 2 in the 11th heat, Bensmiller, driving the Happy Trails Cabins & Campground outfit placed first on the night by 17 one-hundredths of a second over Rick Fraser. Jerry Bremner placed third, Layne MacGillivray was fourth and Mark Sutherland rounded out the top five on the night.

With one run to go to try and qualify for Sunday’s winner-take-all championship final, Kurt Bensmiller leads the overall with a 2 day combined time of 2:37.07. Rick Fraser is in second place overall, 31 one-hundredths of a second behind the leader Bensmiller, with Mark Sutherland and Kirk Sutherland making out the top four after two runs. Jason Glass sits in fifth place overall, just 4 one-hundredths of a second outside the top four. The top 4 drivers in the aggregate after Saturday’s run will go into the winner-take-all championship final heat where the winner will take home the 2013 Battle of the North Championship.

Day 3 of the Battle of the North starting will run on Saturday, August 10, 2013 and can be heard live starting at 7:30pm (MST) on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville
 

Rick Fraser - Best Of The Bunch On Night 3 In Dawson Creek
Photo By Paul Easton

It was clear skies and a warm 22°C in Dawson Creek, British Columbia for 2013 Battle of the North Championship, and the final four have been set for Sunday’s winner-take-all championship final heat.

2011 Battle of the North Champion Rick Fraser was tops in the aggregate standings with a three-day combined time of 3:55.05, and will be joined by the 2007 Battle of the North Champion Kurt Bensmiller, three-time and defending Battle of the North champion Kirk Sutherland and Mark Sutherland will make up Sunday’s winner-take-all championship final. Five-time Battle of the North Champion Kelly Sutherland finished in 5th place overall and just missed the sudden death final by a mere 25 one-hundredths of a second.

As far as the day results go, Rick Fraser, driving the Hellfire Suppression Services outfit was the fast man on the night with a 1:17.67 from barrel number 2 in the 12th heat. Roger Moore was second, with Obrey Motowylo, Mike Vigen and Kelly Sutherland rounding out the top five on the night.

The finals of the Battle of the North starting will run on Sunday, August 11, 2013 and can be heard live starting at 7:30pm (MST) on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville
 

2013 Battle of the North Champions
Hellfire Suppression Services/Northwell Oilfield Hauling Outfit
Outrider Rory Gervais, Dawson Creek Exhibition President
Connie Patterson Presenting, Driver Rick Fraser, Outrider Chanse Vigen
Photo By Billy Melville

The 2013 edition of the Battle of the North Championship in Dawson Creek, British Columbia is in the books, and for the second time in his career, Rick Fraser, driving the Hellfire Suppression Services/Northwell Oilfield Hauling (2009) Inc. outfit, and along with outriders Rory Gervais and Chanse Vigen, captured the championship, a $15,000.00 bonus cheque and a new GMC Sierra truck. It’s the third show win on the season for Rick Fraser.

In a thrilling winner-take-all final, Fraser won the championship with a penalty free run of 1:19.30 from barrel position number 2. Mark Sutherland placed second from barrel number 4, 48 one-hundredths of a second behind the champion Fraser, with 2007 Battle of the North champion Kurt Bensmiller and defending champion Kirk Sutherland finishing third and fourth from barrel number 3 and 1 respectively. Kirk Sutherland actually crossed the finish line first, but 5 seconds in outrider penalties prevented the defending champion from winning his fourth career Dawson Creek crown.

As far as the day results go, Chad Harden, driving the Streeper & Sons Trucking Ltd. outfit had the best time of the night even with a 1 second penalty for his wagon starting ahead of the horn. Harden’s total time of 1:18.10 was tops on the night by a large margin, 1.14 seconds faster than second place finisher Mike Vigen. Jerry Bremner placed third on the night with 2013 champion Rick Fraser and Codey McCurrach filling out the five best times on the night. Jerry Bremner was presented with the Kenn Borek Memorial Most Sportsmanlike Driver award.

The WPCA Pro Tour now moves on to Rocky Mountain House for the final stop on the season at the Battle of the Rockies. Live radio coverage of the Battle of the Rockies from Rocky Mountain House can be heard starting at 6:45pm (MST) on Wednesday, August 14, 2013 with Sunday’s races starting at 1:45pm (MST) on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville
 

Mike Vigen - Number One On Night One In Rocky Mountain House
Photo By Paul Easton

It was a perfect evening at the final stop of the 2013 season at the Battle of the Rockies in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. Under variably cloudy skies and a warm 24°C, Rick Fraser, in search of his second career World Chuckwagon Championship came into the event of the year with somewhat of a slim lead over the hottest driver on the WPCA Pro Tour the last half of the season – Kirk Sutherland. Three time World Champion Chuckwagon Driver Jerry Bremner started the day in third spot in the world standings and Kurt Bensmiller in fourth hole both with shot at the title as well. But when the night wrapped up, Fraser increased his lead slightly in the World Standings with 866 points, and sits 53 points better than Jerry Bremner, and 54 points better than Kurt Bensmiller who is in search of his first career World Chuckwagon Championship. Kirk Sutherland knocked a barrel and slipped to fourth place overall. The World Champion Chuckwagon Driver will be declared on Saturday night.

On the day, Mike Vigen, driving the Zedcor Oilfield Rentals outfit, posted the fast time of the night with a 1:14.40. Coming off barrel 1 in heat 6, Vigen had the fast time of the night by just 1 one-hundredth of a second over world leader Rick Fraser. Rae Croteau Jr. placed third and fourth driving his own outfit and as a replacement driver for injured driver Doug Irvine, with Mark Sutherland rounding out the top five wagons on the day.

The top 4 drivers in the aggregate after Saturday’s run will go into the winner-take-all championship final heat where the winner will take home the 2013 Battle of the Rockies Championship.

Live radio coverage of day 2 of the Battle of the Rockies from Rocky Mountain House can be heard starting at 6:45pm (MST) on Thursday, August 15, 2013 on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville
 

Chad Harden - First Place On Night 2 In Rocky Mountain House
Photo By Carol Easton

With every passing run, the 2013 WPCA Pro Tour is winding down, but a number of things still need to be determined at the season ending stop at the Battle of the Rockies in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. Day 2 was another spectacular day as the fans were treated to some excellent chuckwagon races that ran under cloudy skies and a warm 22°C. When the evening finished up, former Calgary Stampede champion Chad Harden, driving the ConocoPhillips Supporting Farm Safety outfit, posted the fast time of the race meet so far with a run of 1:14.03.

Coming off barrel 3 in heat 6, Harden was fastest on the night by an 67 one-hundredths of a second over Kirk Sutherland, followed by world points leader Rick Fraser, Logan Gorst driving injured driver Luke Tournier’s outfit, and reigning Calgary Stampede champion Jason Glass who made out the top five wagons on the day.

In the chase for the Battle of the Rockies Championship, where the top 4 drivers in the aggregate standings after Saturday’s run will go into the winner-take-all championship final heat, world leader Rick Fraser leads the overall standings with a 2 day aggregate time of 2:29.25. Injured driver Doug Irvine’s outfit which has been driven by Rae Croteau Jr. is in second place overall, 49 one-hundredths of a second behind Fraser, with Rae Croteau Jr.’s own outfit in third and day 1 winner Mike Vigen making up the top four after two runs. Obrey Motowylo is on the outside looking in, sitting in 5th place overall, 41 one-hundredths of a second from a spot in the winner-take-all final. The top 4 drivers in the aggregate after Saturday’s run will go into the winner-take-all championship final heat on Sunday afternoon where the winner will take home a 2013 GMC Sierra truck, a big bonus cheque, and the 2013 Battle of the Rockies Championship.

In what has become an incredible race in the chase for the World Chuckwagon Championship, Rick Fraser, in search of his second career world title, maintains a slight 56.5 point lead over Kirk Sutherland who is looking to win his first career World Chuckwagon Championship with Jerry Bremner just a single point back of Sutherland, and Kurt Bensmiller in fourth place overall but still with a chance at the title. The World Champion Chuckwagon Driver will be crowned on Saturday evening.

Live radio coverage of day 3 of the Battle of the Rockies from Rocky Mountain House can be heard starting at 6:45pm (MST) on Friday, August 16, 2013 on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville
 

Hugh Sinclair - Day Money On Night 3 In Rocky Mountain House
Photo By Carol Easton

For the third consecutive night of the Battle of the Rockies in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta was again run under perfect weather and racetrack conditions. Under partly cloudy skies and a hot 23°C, defending Battle of the Rockies Hugh Sinclair posted the fast time of the race meet with a 1:13.93.

Coming off barrel 2 in the opening heat, Sinclair was just 5 one-hundredths of a second faster than John Walters who placed second on the evening. Injured driver Doug Irvine’s outfit piloted by Rae Croteau Jr. was third, with Kirk Sutherland and Rick Fraser rounding out the top five wagons on the third night of racing.

With just one run to go to try and qualify for the winner-take-all championship final heat, world leader Rick Fraser continues to lead the overall aggregate with a three day aggregate time of 3:44.00. That puts him 29 one-hundredths of a second faster than Doug Irvine’s outfit driven by Rae Croteau Jr., while John Walters and Mike Vigen complete the ever so important top four overall. Rookie driver Chad Fike is now on the outside looking in, sitting in 5th place overall, but is just 37 one-hundredths of a second from a spot in Sunday’s winner-take-all final. The top 4 drivers in the aggregate after tomorrow’s run will compete in the winner-take-all championship final heat on Sunday afternoon where the winner will drive off in a 2013 GMC Sierra truck and the 2013 Battle of the Rockies Championship.

In the chase for the World Chuckwagon Championship, Rick Fraser is still in command, in first place overall, 55.5 points in front of Kirk Sutherland and 71 points ahead of Jerry Bremner with just one run to go in the overall points race. The World Champion Chuckwagon Driver will be crowned on Saturday evening.

Live radio coverage of day 4 of the Battle of the Rockies from Rocky Mountain House can be heard starting at 6:45pm (MST) on Saturday, August 17, 2013 on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville

Rick Fraser - 2013 World Champion Chuckwagon Driver
Photo By Paul Easton

There was a lot on the line on night 4 of the Battle of the Rockies in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. On a hot 26°C, the racetrack was fast, two world champions would be declared, spots to the Calgary Stampede were on the line, exempt status for the 2014 WPCA Tour and the finalists for Sunday’s winner-take-all final for the 2013Battle of the Rockies Championship would all be determined in a pressure packed Saturday night in Rocky Mountain House.

Rick Fraser won his second career World Chuckwagon Championship by 61.5 points over Kirk Sutherland who finished runner-up for the World Championship for the second consecutive year. 3-time World Champion Jerry Bremner was third, Kurt Bensmiller was fourth and Roger Moore placed fifth. Chad Cosgrave captured his third career World Outriding title as well.

The final four are set for Sunday’s winner-take-all championship final heat for the Battle of the Rockies Title. Injured driver Doug Irvine’s outfit driven by Rae Croteau Jr. leads the way after finishing tops in the aggregate standings with a combined time of 4:58.50. He will be joined by former Ponoka Stampede Champion Mike Vigen, newest World Champion Rick Fraser, and 2013 Saskatoon Champion John Walters. 2013 Ponoka Stampede Champion Roger Moore missed the cut for Sunday’s winner-take-all final by 1.08 seconds.

On the day, Mike Vigen, driving injured the Zedcor Oilfield Rentals outfit, established a new track record from barrel number 1 in the 6th heat after posting a run of 1:13.53. This beat the old record set by Kelly Sutherland in 2012 by 12 one-hundredths of a second. Defending Rocky Mountain House Champion Hugh Sinclair was second, with Doug Irvine’s outfit was third, Kurt Bensmiller and Obrey Motowylo filled out the five fastest times on the night.

Live radio coverage of the final day of the Battle of the Rockies from Rocky Mountain House can be heard starting at 1:45pm (MST) on Sunday, August 18, 2013 on Classic Country AM1060 out of Calgary and 99.7 FM The Wolf out of Bonnyville.

Billy Melville

2013 Battle of the Rockies Champions
Zedcor Oilfield Rentals Outfit
(L-R): Miss Rodeo Canada Gillian Shields Presenting, Outrider Chanse Vigen,
Driver Mike Vigen, Outrider Rory Gervais, Rocky Mountain Chuckwagon
Association's Rod Tomyn Presenting
Photo By Billy Melville

It was 25°C and sunny as the finals of the Battle of the Rockies wrapped up on a hot Sunday afternoon in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. The final four running for the Battle of the Rockies championship included Rae Croteau Jr. who had been driving for the injured Doug Irvine, former Ponoka Stampede champion Mike Vigen, 2013 World Chuckwagon Champion Rick Fraser, and 2013 Saskatoon World Chuckwagon Races Champion John Walters. In what was a thrilling race to end the 2013 season, it was Mike Vigen, driving the Zedcor Oilfield Rentals outfit, and along with outriders Rory Gervais and Chanse Vigen, who emerged as the champions of 2013 Battle of the Rockies. It ends a twelve drought for Vigen whose last show win came at the Strathmore Heritage Days in 2000.

Vigen had the fast time of the winner-take-all final after posting a penalty free run of 1:14.72 from barrel position number 1, and beat Rick Fraser who ran off barrel number 2 by just 6 one-hundredths of a second. John Walters was third from barrel number 3, and Rae Croteau Jr., who had the misfortune of hitting both barrels, placed fourth from barrel number 4.

In what was an exciting 2013 professional chuckwagon racing season, Rick Fraser won his second career World Chuckwagon Championship, Chad Cosgrave won his third career World Outriding Championship in a closely contested contest over Rory Gervais. Equine outfit of Excellence winners included “Spearman” of Rick Fraser’s outfit on Right Lead, “Ace” of Kurt Bensmiller’s outfit on Left Lead, “Spitfire” of Kelly Sutherland’s outfit on Right Wheel, “Colonel” of Kirk Sutherland’s outfit on Left Wheel, and “Prince” of Mike Vigen’s outfit and “Ratt” of Jason Glass’ outfit were the champion Outriding Horses.

Congratulations to the 2013 World Champions, driver Rick Fraser and outrider Chad Cosgrave, and many thanks to all the corporate partners, support staff and chuckwagon fans all along the 2013 WPCA Pro Tour. Enjoy a safe and prosperous off-season, and we will see you all in 2014.

Billy Melville
 

The annual WPCA Qualification Run Off is set for August 29 - September 1, 2013,  and will once again be held in Bashaw, Alberta. The top 30 wagons from the 2013 WPCA Pro Tour automatically qualify for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour. All other wagons who would like to earn the privilege to compete on the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour must do so through the qualification run off. There will be 6 spots for the 2014 Pro Tour available this year.

Camping is available, and for more information on the 2013 WPCA Qualification Run Off  and the other events this weekend in Bashaw, Alberta, contact Linda Weins at 1-780-877-2376 or at 1-780-678-6547.

For chuckwagon drivers looking to enter the 2013 WPCA Qualification Run Off, click here for a run-off package. Entries will close on Friday, August 23rd, 2013 at 12:00 noon.

Keep checking www.halfmileofhell.com for more information on the 2013 WPCA Qualification Run Off.

Myrnie Sands-Malvin (L) from WestJet, and Ken Malvin (R) from KMC Sales
Present the 2012 WPCA Clean Drive Award to driver Barry Hodgson (C)
at the 2012 WPCA Awards Banquet & Presentation.
Photo By Paul Easton

The WPCA is now accepting award nominations for the 2013 race season.

The Year End Awards Banquet is an important component to the sport of chuckwagon racing and has allowed the WPCA to honor excellence in the sport of chuckwagon racing as well as advocate for community involvement, equine safety and knowledge, western heritage and sportsmanship for over 30 years.

Award winners will be announced and recognized at the WPCA Awards Banquet and Presentation to be held in October. Every year the WPCA presents several awards such as the Race Committee of the Year Award, Chuckwagon Person of the Year Award and Ty Tournier Memorial Award, etc. which are awarded based on the nominations received from the public including members and non-members of the WPCA.

For more information on each award and a nomination form please click here. Nominations must be submitted, prior to noon on Friday, August 30, 2013.

Email: tammy.kristiansen@wpca.com
Phone: 403-236-2466

The WPCA still has some sponsorship opportunities for the 2013 WPCA Awards Banquet & Presentation. Please contact Tammy Kristiansen for more information. 

The annual WPCA Qualification Run Off is set for August 29 - September 1, and will once again be held in Bashaw, Alberta. The top 30 wagons from the 2013 WPCA Pro Tour automatically qualify for the 2014 Pro Tour. All other wagons who would like to earn the privilege to compete on the 2014 WPCA GMC Pro Tour must do so through the qualification run off.

This year's qualification run off will feature 6 drivers trying to impriove their position for 2014. Among the 6 drivers are current WPCA drivers who failed to make the top 30 in 2013 including Codey McCurrach, Barry Hodgson, Ross Knight, Troy Flad, and Bob Van Eaton. They will be joined by CPCA driver Kelly Morin, who qualified for the sudden death final of the Colonial Days Fair in Lloydminster in 2012. 4-time Calgary Stampede GMC Rangeland Derby Champion Hugh Sinclair, who did  not make the top 30 in 2013 has elected not to come back for 2014. His future plans are unknown at this time.

The top wagon on each day will receive 6 points on down to the last wagon receiving 1 point. A driver is limited to driving only one wagon, and there will be a re-draw after day number 2. After 4 days the the wagons will have determined their qualification order for 2014.  No points are given for where the wagons place in overall aggregate time, however aggregate time will be used to break any ties.

In addition to the Qualification Run Off, there will be several other drivers racing in an exhibition format. Drivers who have confirmed to this point include WPCA veterans Reg Johnstone, John Walters and Troy Flad along with WCA drivers Doug Green and Blaid Flad. There may be others as well, and there will be pony chuckwagon racing from Friday to Sunday starting at 5:30pm featuring members of the All Pro Canadian Chuckwagon & Chariot Association.

On Friday morning from 8:30am to 10:30am there will be a Pancake Breakfast at the Credit Union. Drivers and Outriders will be present. Friday at 5:00pm there will be a volunteer supper for Bashaw Committee Members/Volunteers.

On Saturday at 12:00 noon there will be a weiner roast/corn roast with chuckwagon drivers and outriders present to sign autographs, at 1:00pm a Farmers Market and Art & Quilt Show, 2:00pm a Chili Cook Off that anyone can enter, and after the Saturday night races there will be a cabaret. In addition, throughout the afternoon the kids can enjoy face painting, pony rides, petting zoo among other activities.
 

Qualification Run Off races will run at 7:00pm on Thursday night, and will run approximately at 6:30pm Friday through Sunday right after the pony chuckwagon and chariot races.

Camping is available, and for more information on the 2012 WPCA Qualification Run Off  and the other events this weekend in Bashaw, Alberta, contact Linda Weins at 1- 780-877-2376 or at 1-780-678-6547.

Ross Knight - Top Time On Opening Night In Bashaw
Photo By Fred Vidiuk

For the drivers trying to impriove their position for 2014, the annual WPCA Qualification Run-Off kicked off Thursday night in Bashaw, Alberta. Temperature was 20°C under overcast skies, track conditions were very good, and Ross Knight opened up the event with the top time of the day with a run of 1:02.00.

Coming off barrel number 1 in heat 2, Knight, driving the Kidz Wagon - Weatherford Canada outfit, was the best on the night by 31 one-hundredths of a second over 2013 CPCA driver Kelly Morin who placed second on the night. Barry Hodgson, Troy Flad, Codey McCurrach and Bob Van Eaton fillied out the field on opening night.

The top 30 wagons from the 2013 World Standings automatically qualify for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour. All other wagons who would like to earn the privilege to compete on the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour must do so through the qualification run-off. This year's Qualification Run-Off features 6 wagons trying to impriove their position for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour.

The Friday and Saturday races of the 2013 WPCA Qualification Run-Off from Bashaw will run approximately at 6:45pm (MST) with Sunday's races starting at 1:45pm (MST). In addition to the Qualification Run Off, there will be several other drivers racing in an exhibition format. Drivers who have confirmed to this point include WPCA veterans Reg Johnstone, John Walters and Troy Flad along with WCA drivers Doug Green and Blaid Flad. There will be pony chuckwagon racing from Friday to Sunday featuring members of the All Pro Canadian Chuckwagon & Chariot Association.

On Friday morning from 8:30am to 10:30am there will be a Pancake Breakfast at the Credit Union. Drivers and Outriders will be present. Friday at 5:00pm there will be a volunteer supper for Bashaw Committee Members/Volunteers.

On Saturday at 12:00 noon there will be a weiner roast/corn roast with chuckwagon drivers and outriders present to sign autographs, at 1:00pm a Farmers Market and Art & Quilt Show, 2:00pm a Chili Cook Off that anyone can enter, and after the Saturday night races there will be a cabaret. In addition, throughout the afternoon the kids can enjoy face painting, pony rides, petting zoo among other activities.

Billy Melville

Ross Knight - Top Time On Opening Night In Bashaw
Photo By Fred Vidiuk

For the drivers trying to impriove their position for 2014, the annual WPCA Qualification Run-Off kicked off Thursday night in Bashaw, Alberta. Temperature was 20°C under overcast skies, track conditions were very good, and Ross Knight opened up the event with the top time of the day with a run of 1:02.00.

Coming off barrel number 1 in heat 2, Knight, driving the Kidz Wagon - Weatherford Canada outfit, was the best on the night by 31 one-hundredths of a second over 2013 CPCA driver Kelly Morin who placed second on the night. Barry Hodgson, Troy Flad, Codey McCurrach and Bob Van Eaton fillied out the field on opening night.

The top 30 wagons from the 2013 World Standings automatically qualify for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour. All other wagons who would like to earn the privilege to compete on the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour must do so through the qualification run-off. This year's Qualification Run-Off features 6 wagons trying to impriove their position for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour.

The Friday and Saturday races of the 2013 WPCA Qualification Run-Off from Bashaw will run approximately at 6:45pm (MST) with Sunday's races starting at 1:45pm (MST). In addition to the Qualification Run Off, there will be several other drivers racing in an exhibition format. Drivers who have confirmed to this point include WPCA veterans Reg Johnstone, John Walters and Troy Flad along with WCA drivers Doug Green and Blaid Flad. There will be pony chuckwagon racing from Friday to Sunday featuring members of the All Pro Canadian Chuckwagon & Chariot Association.

On Friday morning from 8:30am to 10:30am there will be a Pancake Breakfast at the Credit Union. Drivers and Outriders will be present. Friday at 5:00pm there will be a volunteer supper for Bashaw Committee Members/Volunteers.

On Saturday at 12:00 noon there will be a weiner roast/corn roast with chuckwagon drivers and outriders present to sign autographs, at 1:00pm a Farmers Market and Art & Quilt Show, 2:00pm a Chili Cook Off that anyone can enter, and after the Saturday night races there will be a cabaret. In addition, throughout the afternoon the kids can enjoy face painting, pony rides, petting zoo among other activities.

Billy Melville

Ross Knight - Top Time On Opening Night In Bashaw
Photo By Fred Vidiuk

For the drivers trying to impriove their position for 2014, the annual WPCA Qualification Run-Off kicked off Thursday night in Bashaw, Alberta. Temperature was 20°C under overcast skies, track conditions were very good, and Ross Knight opened up the event with the top time of the day with a run of 1:02.00.

Coming off barrel number 1 in heat 2, Knight, driving the Kidz Wagon - Weatherford Canada outfit, was the best on the night by 31 one-hundredths of a second over 2013 CPCA driver Kelly Morin who placed second on the night. Barry Hodgson, Troy Flad, Codey McCurrach and Bob Van Eaton fillied out the field on opening night.

The top 30 wagons from the 2013 World Standings automatically qualify for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour. All other wagons who would like to earn the privilege to compete on the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour must do so through the qualification run-off. This year's Qualification Run-Off features 6 wagons trying to impriove their position for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour.

The Friday and Saturday races of the 2013 WPCA Qualification Run-Off from Bashaw will run approximately at 6:45pm (MST) with Sunday's races starting at 1:45pm (MST). In addition to the Qualification Run Off, there will be several other drivers racing in an exhibition format. Drivers who have confirmed to this point include WPCA veterans Reg Johnstone, John Walters and Troy Flad along with WCA drivers Doug Green and Blaid Flad. There will be pony chuckwagon racing from Friday to Sunday featuring members of the All Pro Canadian Chuckwagon & Chariot Association.

On Friday morning from 8:30am to 10:30am there will be a Pancake Breakfast at the Credit Union. Drivers and Outriders will be present. Friday at 5:00pm there will be a volunteer supper for Bashaw Committee Members/Volunteers.

On Saturday at 12:00 noon there will be a weiner roast/corn roast with chuckwagon drivers and outriders present to sign autographs, at 1:00pm a Farmers Market and Art & Quilt Show, 2:00pm a Chili Cook Off that anyone can enter, and after the Saturday night races there will be a cabaret. In addition, throughout the afternoon the kids can enjoy face painting, pony rides, petting zoo among other activities.

Billy Melville

Myrnie Sands-Malvin (L) from WestJet, and Ken Malvin (R) from KMC Sales
Present the 2012 WPCA Clean Drive Award to driver Barry Hodgson (C)
at the 2012 WPCA Awards Banquet & Presentation.
Photo By Paul Easton

The WPCA is now accepting award nominations for the 2013 race season.

The Year End Awards Banquet is an important component to the sport of chuckwagon racing and has allowed the WPCA to honor excellence in the sport of chuckwagon racing as well as advocate for community involvement, equine safety and knowledge, western heritage and sportsmanship for over 30 years.

Award winners will be announced and recognized at the WPCA Awards Banquet and Presentation to be held in October. Every year the WPCA presents several awards such as the Race Committee of the Year Award, Chuckwagon Person of the Year Award and Ty Tournier Memorial Award, etc. which are awarded based on the nominations received from the public including members and non-members of the WPCA.

For more information on each award and a nomination form please click here. Nominations must be submitted, prior to noon on Friday, August 30, 2013.

Email: tammy.kristiansen@wpca.com
Phone: 403-236-2466

The WPCA still has some sponsorship opportunities for the 2013 WPCA Awards Banquet & Presentation. Please contact Tammy Kristiansen for more information. 

Ross Knight - Top Time On Opening Night In Bashaw
 Photo By Fred Vidiuk

For the drivers trying to impriove their position for 2014, the annual WPCA Qualification Run-Off kicked off Thursday night in Bashaw, Alberta. Temperature was 20°C under overcast skies, track conditions were very good, and Ross Knight opened up the event with the top time of the day with a run of 1:02.00.

Coming off barrel number 1 in heat 2, Knight, driving the Kidz Wagon - Weatherford Canada outfit, was the best on the night by 31 one-hundredths of a second over 2013 CPCA driver Kelly Morin who placed second on the night. Barry Hodgson, Troy Flad, Codey McCurrach and Bob Van Eaton fillied out the field on opening night.

The top 30 wagons from the 2013 World Standings automatically qualify for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour. All other wagons who would like to earn the privilege to compete on the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour must do so through the qualification run-off. This year's Qualification Run-Off features 6 wagons trying to impriove their position for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour.

The Friday and Saturday races of the 2013 WPCA Qualification Run-Off from Bashaw will run approximately at 6:45pm (MST) with Sunday's races starting at 1:45pm (MST). In addition to the Qualification Run Off, there will be several other drivers racing in an exhibition format. Drivers who have confirmed to this point include WPCA veterans Reg Johnstone, John Walters and Troy Flad along with WCA drivers Doug Green and Blaid Flad. There will be pony chuckwagon racing from Friday to Sunday featuring members of the All Pro Canadian Chuckwagon & Chariot Association.

On Friday morning from 8:30am to 10:30am there will be a Pancake Breakfast at the Credit Union. Drivers and Outriders will be present. Friday at 5:00pm there will be a volunteer supper for Bashaw Committee Members/Volunteers.

On Saturday at 12:00 noon there will be a weiner roast/corn roast with chuckwagon drivers and outriders present to sign autographs, at 1:00pm a Farmers Market and Art & Quilt Show, 2:00pm a Chili Cook Off that anyone can enter, and after the Saturday night races there will be a cabaret. In addition, throughout the afternoon the kids can enjoy face painting, pony rides, petting zoo among other activities.
 
Billy Melville
 

Because of inclement weather, Day 2 of the WPCA Qualfication Run Off hortened to a as been cancelled. The event will be shortened to a 3 day event.

On Saturday at 12:00 noon there will be a weiner roast/corn roast with chuckwagon drivers and outriders present to sign autographs, at 1:00pm a Farmers Market and Art & Quilt Show, 2:00pm a Chili Cook Off that anyone can enter, and after the Saturday night races there will be a cabaret. In addition, throughout the afternoon the kids can enjoy face painting, pony rides, petting zoo among other activities.

Saturdy's races will go at 6:45pm with Sunday's Races at 1:45pm.

Barry Hodgson- Best On Night 2 In Bashaw
 Photo By Paul Easton

For the drivers trying to improve their position for 2014, and after an unscheduled night off, the annual WPCA Qualification Run-Off resumed Saturday night in Bashaw, Alberta. Barry Hodgson was the top wagon on the night  with a run of 1:02.39.

Coming off barrel number 1 in heat 3, Hodgson, driving the Roadtrek Motorhomes outfit, was the best on the night by 57 one-hundredths of a second over Codey McCurrach. Bob Van Eaton placed third after receiving an average time, followed by Ross Knight and Troy Flad. Kelly Morin did not complete his race and received a no time.

After 2 runs, Barry Hodgson leads with 10 points, followed by Ross Knight in second place with 9 points, Codey McCurrach is in third with 7 points, while Troy Flad, Bob Van Eaton and Kelly Morin are all tied with 5 points.

The 2013 WPCA Qualification Run Off in Bashaw will conclude tomorrow with racing to start at 1:45pm  local time.
 
Billy Melville
 

Codey McCurrach - Number One In All Categories On the Final
Day Of The Qualification Run Off
Photo By Carol Easton

The final day of the WPCA’s annual Qualification Run-Off went Sunday afternoon in Bashaw, Alberta where 6 chuckwagon drivers were each looking to improve their position for the 2014 WPCA Pro Tour. It was a hot 25°C under clear skies, and the Bashaw fans were treated to some wonderful racing as well.

Codey McCurrach was the fast man on the night and ended up in first place in the run off standings with 13 points. Barry Hodgson and Ross Knight tied for second and third with 12 points, but Hodsgon gets the nod because his overall agreggate time was better than Knight's. Veteran WPCA driver Troy Flad placed fourth overall with 10 points, with Kelly Morin in fifth place with 9 points and Bob Van Eaton filling out the field with 6 points. Kelly Morin will be running for the first time on the WPCA Pro Tour in 2014.

As far as the day results go, Codey McCurrach, driving the Alberta Pressure Testing Outfit, posted the fastest time of the afternoon with a 1:02.23. Coming off barrel number 1 in heat 3, McCurrach was the top time of the day by 76 one-hundredths of a second over Troy Flad who was second from heat 1. Kelly Morin placed third, followed by Ross Knight, Barry Hodgson and Bob Van Eaton.

Billy Melville