MVTR.ORG
October 2012
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As we come to the end of a very ambitious and
successful season thank you to the members that
took the lead in organizing the events and to all the
members who helped them!
New England Classic
June 9-10
Trail Boss Saturday
JD Mott
[email protected]
603 765 8094
Trail Boss Sunday
Chip Fredette
[email protected]
Chip Lamphere
[email protected]
Big Bike Rally
June 9-10
Dave Mott
[email protected]
Kid’s Classic
June 9-10
Matt Belanger
[email protected]
Jay Lees
[email protected]
Rocky Mountain H/S
July 30-31
Trail Boss Pee Wee Scramble
Jeff & Tami Preve
[email protected].
Trail Boss Jr. Enduro
Andy & Lynne Anthony
[email protected]
Trail Boss Hare Scramble
Shawn Levesque
[email protected],
Family Day Trail Ride July 22
Lebanon Maine
Mike and Karen Harrison
207-475-2184
Family Day Alton August 18
Alton, NH
Sarah Dynia
[email protected]
Mountain View Turkey Run
Oct. 7
Paul Zanis 603-986-7338
Luis Colom 603-247-2711 [email protected]
Past To Present Weekend
Oct 6, 7 and 8
Jim Nash
[email protected]
The Hawk Ride
Jay McGrath
Oct 28
[email protected]
Landry Fall Challenge Nov. 24
Jeff Noyles
Bob Landry
Ice Box
Mark Stock
[email protected]
Jan. 1
[email protected]
Club Ride Wednesday Night
Done for the season.
2 May 2012
May MVTR Meeting
The May MVTR meeting began promptly after the pizza was distributed and most members were
thereby quieted. A command decision was made to hold discussion of all things Classic until after other
business was complete.
OHRVs, RSA 215:39, stickers, etc.
Tom presented a brief history of where we are and how we got here. To summarize (as best I can),
back in 1984 legislation was passed which allowed an OHRV registered trailbike with a Certificate of Origin
and the MVTR “conversion” form (or equivalent) to be registered for road (not interstate) use. This was
intended principally to connect trail sections by road as the most likely bikes to be ‘converted’ were considered
at best less than desirable as ‘street bikes’. Because of this it was not deemed necessary to require the
addition of all the equipment required on a ‘street bike’. Consequently, if you are riding a bike on the road
(public way) and it does NOT have an OHRV sticker, it is required to have full DOT required equipment,
high/low headlight, legal size tail light, directional signals, i.e everything that ‘normal’ street bikes come with.
Conversely, there is no provision in the statute for converting a street bike into a trailbike by removing the DOT
equipment. We were also reminded that in NH we are required to display an OHRV sticker anytime we are
operating off a public way on property other than our own.
Fortunately, if you are registered in an event (the Classic as an example) for which the organizers
have obtained a NH F&G Rally Permit, the OHRV sticker is not required.
Youth Training
The snowmobile clubs have been active in running youth OHRV training but recent years have found
the wheeled community less active in this regard. NH F&G is looking to the NHATV assn. to host more
opportunities. MVTR did have a number of course instructors among the membership, how many remain?
Rumor Control
Having been ‘out of town’ I apparently missed it but there appears to have been a rumor circulating
that MVTR and NETRA have been working against ATVs. While we are primarily a bike club that rumor is
absolutely false. It seems to have begun with an ATV club planning to hold an outing in Devil’s Den on 9 June
2012. It so happens that is the (only) day that the Classic would be routing several hundred bikes through that
area. I have not heard whom it was that suggested that they might want to choose a different date but that
suggestion was the seed from which the rumor grew.
As mentioned we are predominately a bike club (with members riding any and everything from 3 and 4
wheelers to snowmobiles and jet skis) but in the not so distant past MVTR hosted a couple of winter ‘enduros’
in Bear Brook which included bikes, snowmobiles and ATVs … on the same course, at the same time. It was
before “my time” and I don’t want to even think about the logistics of making that work but it does help illustrate
that we are supportive of trail riding in any flavor.
40 Years!
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This is MVTR’s 40 year as a club (hmm, I was just a teenager then). Tuck did a pretty good job of
pretending not to notice when Tom suggested that perhaps we should have a club historian to try and get
some information collected (while it is still available). A display of memorabilia may be in our future, definitely
some logistics to be worked out.
Recent Rides
The Concrete Highway trail ride was described as much improved though shorter at 43 miles, some
‘found’ a few more miles to better fill the day. When 375 riders showed up for the J-Day race sign-ups didn’t
run quite as smoothly as in the past. Success has it’s price! The short course was said to be dusty. Tonight’s
pre-meeting ride was judged to be a success, getting in about 20 miles with no one lost, drowned or arrested.
Hop-Ev
The trails in the Hop-Ev Flood Control Area will not be opening early. The area is managed by the NH
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Bureau of Trails but owned by the federal government, by contract the trails open on or after the 23 of May
each year.
The Classic
The Trail Bosses present offered up progress reports: Chip said that the Southern Loop will be pretty
much unchanged up to the Lunch Stop. He is looking at substantial alteration to the afternoon route but does
not have it ‘pinned down’ quite yet. The Rally Permit application is turned in. JD told us that most of the
Northern Loop has been ridden other than Devil’s Den. He plans to be out on the trails every Sunday from
Mother’s Day on and is looking for Pre and Sweep riders to get out with him to learn the route. According to
Matt the sign-up is off to a slow start for the Kid’s Classic with only 6 so far (just a few years back this would
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‘sell out’, what has changed?). There will be a Pre and Sweep rider ‘pre-ride on the 20 from Bergeron’s. As
always, additional ‘adult’ riders are welcome to chaperone the event.
Doesn’t Fit Elsewhere
Jean-Marie is hosting a benefit enduro to raise $$$ for breast cancer in New Brunswick in June. With
some luck I will get the flyer attached to this summary.
Anyone who has found out that the soles of their Alpinestar boots wore out long before the boots
might want to know that Sidi soles can be sewn on by United Shoe (Main St. in Concord).
6 June 2012
MVTR June Meeting
When the meeting was called to order at 19:54 (early!), the New England Classic Charity Trail Ride,
now just days away was the first topic for discussion.
Lisa spoke about the recent breakthroughs in CF treatment and how some new medicines are fighting
the disease on a genetic level. So far only one percent of the CF patients can benefit from this exciting new
treatment but it shows that a cure can be found for all the rest. She offered thanks to the Classic Committee
and to all who volunteered to make this a successful event. Dave M. was recognized as the newest Trail Boss,
having taken the reigns of the Big Bike Rally for 2012. Freedom Cycle was thanked for not only their support
throughout the Classic but also the other events they hold and support throughout the year to benefit the CFF.
Finally, thanks was offered to the landowners who make this all possible and specifically Alex and Bob, without
whom there would be no lunch stops.
JD presided over the presentation of several of the annual ‘Classic MVTR Awards’. These are usually
made at the Classic Banquet, this year the Committee thought that it might be more appropriate to make the
presentation at our meeting where more of the club was present to recognize the recipients. First among JD’s
‘awards’ was a big ‘Thank You’ to Jared S., a relatively new member whose vocabulary appears not to include
either ‘no’ or ‘I can’t’, at least where the Classic is involved. Next came the 2012 Outstanding Volunteer Award,
presented to Dave R. for his efforts to be everywhere and do everything needed.
. Finally the 2012 Ironman Award was presented to Jim P. for not only being everywhere and doing anything
needed but also continuing to do that year after year. Tuck filled in for an ailing Chip L. (last years recipient) to
present the Hawk Award which is given each year to the MVTR member who best exemplifies the spirit of Tom
(the Hawk) McAlpine, an MVTR member who worked diligently year after year, even while suffering from
cancer, to make the Classic the pre-eminent event that it has become. This year’s Hawk Award was presented
to Mark S. who each year comes through with whatever is needed be it a sign, a bridge or anything in
between. Congratulations to all the award recipients, you continue to make us all proud to be a part of MVTR.
Lisa also noted that thanks to Art, the 2012 Classic is to be covered by NH Chronicle. Time and date
that the show will air will be announced once set.
Next we got ‘final’ comments from the Team Captains:
John O. noted that there was still a need for help ‘out front on Friday afternoon, Saturday morning and Sunday
morning. Also volunteers to round up (with a bull horn) the riders for the Rider’s Meeting each morning.
JD mentioned an ever present need for sweep riders and parking patrol.
Jared called for the tech crew members to get their ‘credentials.
Chip was absent and I honestly do not recall (Jared?) whom it was that stepped up to report that this years
Southern Loop was much changed with a new entrance point into Bear Brook, another mile of trail in Jay’s
section, an all new afternoon which left out Pawtuckaway park but ended upwith 99 miles for the day and
much less tar to cover.
Dave told us that he still had openings for sweep on the BBR and that they would be once again joining the
trail riders for lunch at Alex’s.
Matt reminded us that today was the last day to sign-up for the Kid’s Classic, due to CFF National rules and
insurance the kid’s names all have to be submitted several days before the event. They had about 30 signed
up.
Jay thanked everyone who had signed up to help with the Kid’s Classic. Perhaps more than any other part of
Classic Weekend, having plenty of volunteers is essential to keep the Kid’s Classic running smoothly.
Tom restated that outside of the posted Sign-Up and Registration hours, entrance to the Speedway is handled
by Track Security, too many have learned (the hard way) that getting in requires that you be pre-registered
and on ‘the list’.
Last but never least, Tuck informed us that sweep riders were still needed along with more volunteers to man
the information booth.
With the Classic covered, Tom moved us along to the somewhat related Bike Week, Class VI Classic
ride. Once again Jim N. has organized a ‘post Classic’ ride, riders will meet at 07:30 at the Pancake House or
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may head directly to Jim’s for a ‘kick stands up’ 09:30 departure on the 12 . The day will consist of a 70 – 80
mile ‘wait at the corner’ (no arrows!) trail ride.
Jim is also revisiting the ‘Past to Present’ vintage bike and rider event he held in 2010. For 2012 he is
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hosting a 3 Day version of the event, taking place on the 6 , 7 and 8 of October. Friday, the 6 will feature a
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vintage bike ride to George Peck’s in Leominster, on Sunday the 7 there will be a vintage bike show and
banquet with a guest speaker, under a tent at the Hillsboro American Legion Hall and an ‘adventure’ ride is
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planned for Monday the 8 . More information as it becomes available from Jim either at NashNH@gmail or
[email protected].
Moving along, Tom brought up the point that club election of officers had not been held in May and
was now ‘past due’. After asking if anyone new had a desire to hold a club office and getting no ‘takers’, it was
proposed to have the club vote to carry the current slate forward for another year. This was passed on a voice
vote. I will insert a personal note here and say that if anyone has a desire to move into the prestigious position
of club scribe (I don’t think that the position actually existed prior to about 6 years ago), I will be happy to turn
over my records, such as they are and offer any and all advice/help to the new officer.
With Brian running late, Tom advised us that ‘Grant-in-Aid’ had been applied for to continue
maintenance and development in both Hop-Ev and at Jericho, with both being approved. John reported that
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13 or 14 participants had held a productive work party in Hop-Ev prior to the May 23 opening of the trails.
They covered all the Bureau of Trails requests and cleared a number of trees that were obstructing the trails.
Since that time there have been more blow-downs and another work party may be called once the Classic is
done. Club rides at Hop-Ev will begin on Wednesday evenings starting next week. There is no ‘official’ start
time but 5 pm will probably find riders gathering, look for an MVTR banner to be displayed on someone’s
vehicle as a rallying point. There are generally riders of all ability classes so finding someone to ride with
should be easy,
Mike and Karen are still working on preparations for the ‘Family Day’ that will be held on their property
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in Maine, July 22 2012. This is scheduled on the same day as a Hare Scramble intentionally as it is a noncompetitive event intended to get those who are not racers out riding. A small entry fee to cover lunch costs
will be collected and they do ask that you RSVP if you want to camp there due to space limitations.
Rocky Mountain Weekend will be approaching fast on the heels of the Classic. The event itself will
be held on 28 & 29 July, much sooner than that will be the Work Party Weekend which takes place on 23 &
24 June (times and details can be found on NEDB, another work day will happen just prior to the event, on 26
July to attend to those ‘last minute details’. Saturday, 28 July will feature the Jr., Mini and Women’s Enduro
along with the PeeWee Scramble, Sunday 29 July will bring on the Mini, Novice, Amateur and Expert Hare
Scrambles. As always, there is room/need for any and all volunteers during the event in many roles. The
PeeWee and Jr. Enduro events have been voted Best of NETRA for two years running and we are certainly
working to see that continue.
Several MVTR riders competed in the Tri-State & King Phillip Trail Riders’ enduros recently. Mike
reported that clubs are making the move to the National Enduro system of known controls but that consistency
in time lost/needed in checking into sections is still a work in progress. Be that as it may, he related that both
events ranked high in what he considers the most important quality – Smilage!
Doug gave a brief ‘report’ on his recent ride – the 4 day, Mexican 1000, among other things we
learned that 500 miles of Baja is a bit tough on a new set of spokes and that some ‘tuning’ might be
appropriate early in the process to avoid major challenges. Apparently it was both challenging and fun as he
has already entered the Vegas to Reno race to be held in August.
Tuck mentioned that there would be an Employee Invitation Ride Day at Freedom Cycle on Sunday, 5
August 2012.
Respectively Submitted
Bruce
Art Pepin
At almost every Club event and
most NETRA races Art is there
with his camera. For the last
couple of years Art posted great
action photos online for members
to download Free. What started
out as a hobby has grown into a
business.
NETRAPHOTOS.com.
If your looking for photos to
impress you family and friends
with check out Art’s site.
During a break in the action Art does a
little sight seeing at the Tom Noble
Enduro
Noble Enduro
Looking for his next subject.
1 August 2012
MVTR August Meeting
With Rocky Mountain Weekend still very fresh in (most) everyone’s mind, it was the first topic for
discussion.
Tom, speaking for Shawn (somewhere overhead in the skies) wanted to offer up Thank You’s for the
volunteers who made the weekend another success story. From the Trail Bosses, Logistics People, Parking
Sheriffs, Tech/Sound Check crews, Sign-Up crews, Video & Sound Engineers (even if they were rained out on
Saturday evening), through the Chief Starter (Tuck) and Christine Miner’s singing of the National Anthem.
“Good Show”!
Andy described how fortunate we were to have so many quality workers. He also noted that while the
last couple of NETRA Hare Scrambles have been down 10 to 20% in attendance, we had only dropped from
216 last year to 201 this year (7%).
Chip & JD both rode the event, they described an ‘awesome track’, really good time, clean & clear
and just plain fun. Dave also rode and said it was the best Rocky yet but he only had a ‘sorta good time’,
because of something to do with a missing cotter pin and his rear brake pedal.
From the Sweep Riders, we heard from Aaron who said he loved the track, from John who got in lots
of laps, and Jim who had a good time but was a little ‘bummed’ to be sweeping rather than riding it as his first
race since being promoted into B Senior. I have to say that while checking sweep riders out and back from the
course, I have never seen so many smiles, nor so many riders anxious to ‘get back out there’.
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Transitioning on to recreational riding, we heard that Kevin was headed to Jericho on the 2 . He will
be meeting with representatives of the state and working to keep moving forward on the Single Track up there.
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John & Brian were both present to represent MVTR on 28 July at the Hop-Ev 50 Anniversary event. It
would appear that those in charge of Hop-Ev are both aware and appreciative of the effort MVTR puts forward
on the trail system there.
Mike & Karen put much time and a tremendous effort into preparing for their Family Day on 22 July.
In the end they hosted 25 adults and 14 youth for a great day of trail riding, complete with a catered lunch and
pool access on their property in Lebanon, ME. While a little disappointed in the numbers they are looking
forward to hosting an ‘MVTR Club Ride’ there on 30 September.
On this evening’s pre-meeting ride Jared reported that while he, had ‘found a log’, JD had sunk!
In Upcoming Events we have:
The Freedom Cycle/Jason Raines employee test day will be held on Sunday, 5 August. Advance
sign-up would be much appreciated.
Sarah & Bruce’s MVTR Ladies Ride is scheduled for 18 August in Alton, NH. There will be food by
Abby Run Construction (of Classic, Southern Loop fame!) and they are still looking for more riders and
volunteers.
Tuck advised us that there would be a Trail Ride coming up on Hoyt Road in Concord on 1
September. It is in support of a Breast Cancer Charity and will be taking place on a 6-mile loop. (Wish I had
more info to offer, might be something posted @ Freedom)
Luis reminded us, that the Mountain View Turkey Run is coming up on 7 October. The event will
start at the Wolfeboro Airport (he is hoping to see someone fly in with their bike) and should cover about 100
miles. He is not looking for much help yet, but the call will go out, as we get closer to Key Time.
Notes in passing:
Jim wanted to advise us of the passing of George Peck who had earned the NETRA Enduro
championships in 1976 & 1977 on Rokon bikes (you youngsters can look them up). (The August 2012 issue of
Trail Rider Magazine has more history)
Jeff told us that the family issues, which have curtailed riding in Windham, are now settled and there
should be some rides coming up shortly
As usual, some of the ‘coming events’ have come and gone between meeting time and when I get this
summary put together, all the more reason to attend meetings and check the website frequently. The next
meeting will be on 5 September 2012, still on Summer Schedule (20:00 start) although daylight is fading fast
so you will want to be ready for the pre-meeting ride early (17:00?) unless you have really good light Bruce
Minutes September 2012
Unfortunately I did not notice Bruce was absent from the meeting and I did not take meeting notes. I
can give a brief report.
The attendance at Rocky
Weekend was
substantially less then
previous years resulting
in a drop in revenue.
Other then dues The
Rocky is the only way
the club generates
money so finances will
be tight this year
Kevin Boothroyd will be
heading up Jericho Park
to finish the single track
and looking for a couple
people to help out.
Sarah reported the
Family Day ride in Alton
was success. Over 30
riders of all ages enjoyed
a great day of riding.
Another Project Behind us!
Hop Ev
The approach ramp and railings have been replaced on the River Loop suspension bridge “ A Bridge
To Far”. This completes the bridge Brian started last fall.
That’s about it for my memory. Ron
More Help Needed
Thanks to the members who contributed to the newsletter. I am looking forward to see what other members send in and
please don’t let facts get in the way of a good story. Any riding story, bike repair tale or hints, equipment review or
suggestion, whatever you can share will benefit all of the members. Please keep the stories coming. Mail or e-mail your
newsletter contribution to me:
Ron Sousa
[email protected]
14 Herrrick Circle
Pelham NH 03076
MVTR President:
Tom Levesque
[email protected]
32nd Annual N.E. Classic Charity Trail Ride
THANK YOU MVTR!
Stats & Figures
$104,000 Raised...Yippee!!!
Highest Adult Fundraiser ~ William Polewarczyk ~ $2,370
Highest Kid Fundraiser ~ Colin Bernard ~ $2,467.22
Top Visiting Club ~ Pilgrim Sands Trail Riders ~ $6,465.00
MVTR Fundraising Total ~ $18,878.00
32 Kid’s Ride Generated ~ $5,370
Winner of Suzuki DRZ400 ~ Rupert!!!
And he donated back for another $4,900!!!
Iron Man Award ~ Jim Pidgeon
Outstanding Volunteer Award ~ Dave Rausseo
Outstanding Volunteer Award ~ Marilyn Nylen
Hawk Award ~ Mark Stock
Farthest Traveled ~ Jonathan Holmes
The 33rd Classic should put at over $2,000,000 raised for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
You Are The BEST!!! Thank you!!!
Lisa O’Conner
Riders throughout the region enjoy and support The Classic!
Demographics
CT = 44, MA = 88, ME = 30, NH = 223, NJ = 25 NY = 47, PA = 3, RI = 16, VT = 37, Other = 11
You Are Invited To…..
“The Hawk”
9th Annual Invitational Trail Ride
Sunday OCTOBER 28, 2012
To celebrate the memory of Tom “The Hawk” McAlpine.
This year will be a Halloween Hare Scramble on my 6 Mile Loop here in
Deerfield, NH. It will be an 11 AM start with Catered dinner by Goody
Cole's BBQ at 2 PM.
All are welcome.
Part of the proceeds will go to our preferred charity.
Costumes are encouraged!!
$50.00 Ride with meal pre entry required by October 22
2012
$30.00 NON Rider meal pre entry required by
October 22
$30.00 Ride only can be paid the day of the event
Sign Up And Start 11:00 AM
McGrath’s Motorcycle Ranch
60 Ridge Rd Deerfield, NH
Contact Jay or Donna @ 603-463-4111 for Info…… Kindly respond to
mailto:[email protected] [email protected] followed by your check by
October 22 2012
T he Landry Ranch - M VT R Fall
Challenge
Time Trial
Windham NH
8:00am to 3:00pm Trophy Presentation
Saturday November 24th
H ow Fast Can You D o Jeff’s 6.2-M ile Single T rack Course?
Single bike start with a rider leaving every 2 minutes.
Run the course throughout the day to get your best time.
Time recorded by classes; A, B, C, Woman’s, Seniors (50 to 60), Masters
(60 +), Junior’s, and Sportsmen (noncompetitive trail riders) .
Bring your own Chairs and Food with maybe some to share, there will be
grills on site
Carry in – Carry Out please leave nothing behind.
Ride or hang out at the fire but don’t miss this event!
Donation $20 Per Person
Proceeds After Expenses Will Be Donated to The Sheppard’s Pantry
DO NOT POST THIS ON N.E. DIRT BIKE. WE DON'T WANT THE EXTRA
PUBLICITY.
This is for MVTR and SCTR Members and invited guests only
BRING YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD!
Rule of the Day: A Slower rider must pull over when a faster approaching rider
calls out “TRAIL”
ONLY QUIET BIKES WILL BE ALLOWED TO RIDE - LEAVE THE LOUD
ONES HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This a closed course bikes do not have to be street or trail registered.
Direction:
Address is 120 Lowell Road Windham, NH.
From I-93 (North or South) take exit #3. Take right at end of ramp. Go to stop light and take right. Follow to
the end of the road. At stop sign take left, (School is dead ahead), go about 200 yards and turn right into dirt
road to the left of the old Bultaco Dealership. Follow the road over small bridge and park in the small field
on the left by the pine trees.
Call Jeff at (H) 603-890-3778 for more info or if weather may be a problem. E-Mail by Bob Landry (C) 603-
289-9585
[email protected]
Workers please arrive at 7:00 am
8:00 am
General Admission
Hop-Ev History
Flood Control System
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In July the Army Corp of Engineers held ceremony to celebrate the 50 anniversary of the completion of the
Hopkinton-Everett flood control system. The ceremony had speeches, a band, color guard, displays of
construction photographs, and dam tours. MVTR had a promotional booth, as did other clubs that utilize the
area.
The flood control system was built as the result of the devastating flood of 1938. Rain from a hurricane caused
the dam at Deering reservoir to fail, and the subsequent torrent down the Piscataquoq into Weare-Dunbarton
breeched another dam.
Clough State Park was created in 1932 when John Clough deeded 339 acres to the state to preserve his
wood lot of virgin forest. New Hampshire had a far different appearance then, with approximately 85% of the
entire state denuded of trees. Any forests existed only in the most inaccessible places to logging, or rarely,
where they had been preserved by land owners. Today in New England it is extremely rare to find virgin forests
where trees have never been harvested since before European settlers.
The elderly John Clough was of old New England stock, and his family had farmed in Weare since before the
American Revolution. The property was known as the John Clough Reservation. It was described as a fine
forest including chestnut trees, a pleasant meadow for camping, and a wide natural pool in the river for
swimming. Today the Everett dam and lake occupy the area.
Everett Dam is believed to be named after the Everett train station which was near the present dam location.
Local historians believe the station name derived from William H, Everett, a local railroad conductor who
served 32 years beginning in 1855.
East Weare NH Circa 1910
East Weare Village was demolished for the flood control project in 1960, was located along the dirt road
approximately where the River Loop rejoins the Bassett Mill trail. This area included over 60 mostly farming
families. Lumbering and a toy shop were local industries. East Weare also included a train depot, churches, a
school and post office, garage, grocery store, lumber mills, grist mill, a Grange Hall, cemeteries, blacksmith
shop and creamery.
Stark Pond and Cemetery Two of the first settling land owners in Starkstown (the name later changed to
Dunbarton) were Caleb Page, father of Molly Stark; and Archibald Stark, father of General John Stark. Caleb
Page’s house is located at the junction of Rtes 13 and 77 (Pages Corner). General John Stark’s biography is
too long to summarize here, but suffice it to say that we all might still be subjects of the British Crown if not for
him. In 1760 John Stark built a sawmill and dam forming Stark Pond. The mill was operated by his
descendants for more than a century, and a mill existed on the original location into the 1900s. There has
been a stone bridge located near the dam since the 1700s. I haven’t been able to find out how old the current
stone bridge is.
Across Winslow Road from the dam is the original location of the Stark Cemetery. General Stark is buried in
Manchester, but his son Col. Caleb Stark, also a Revolutionary War veteran, was buried there. In 1962 as
part of the Hopkinton-Everett flood control project the cemetery was moved to higher ground in its present
location on Mansion Road. Though small, the cemetery contains a surprising number of distinguished people.
If you enjoy NH history it is an interesting stop.
John Mesick
References: Weare Historical Society, The History of Weare, NH 1735-1888 by William Little, The History of Dunbarton, NH 1860 by
Caleb Stark, Dunbarton Historical Society, NH State Parks.
Hop-Ev Riding Area Atlas Printed and Distributed
Our Trail Administrator Brian Harjula in
process of distributing the Atlas to First
Responders, Fish and Game, the Bureau of
Trails, and the Army Corp of Engineers. The
Atlas is intended as an aid to First
Responders, and not for general
distribution. Each page was plastic
laminated for water resistance and
durability. The maps were generated from a
high resolution database that many
volunteers have invested many hours to
produce. The database includes trail mile
markers, roads, bridges, gates, and other
features. Volunteers include Kevin
Boothroyd, Bruce Goodwyn, Brian Harjula,
Jim McCarthy, John Mesick, and Jim
Pidgeon. Kevin deserves special recognition
for developing the database, creating the
Atlas, and he walked much of the area to
obtain clear GPS locations.
The database will be an aid to the Trail
Administrator for maintenance. We expect
The Atlas will be held up as an example by the Bureau of Trails to other clubs that maintain
riding areas for New Hampshire of what they could or should produce. Kevin, Brian, & John
Shrewsbury youth rides to help others
By Mary Pritchard, Contributing Writer
Shrewsbury – Colin Bernard said he began riding dirt bikes when he was about 5 years old.
“It’s a deal my dad made with me and my brothers,” he said. “As soon as we took the training wheels off our
bikes, we could learn to ride dirt bikes.”
A member of NETRA (New England Trail Riders Association), Colin has been racing dirt bikes for three years
all over New England.
One annual event on Colin’s riding schedule
is the New England Classic Charity Trail
Ride for Cystic Fibrosis. The ride, sponsored
by the Merrimack Valley Trail Riders
(MVTR), is held at the New Hampshire Motor
Speedway in Loudon, N.H. According to
Colin, the speedway donates the use of their
facility as the hub of the event with the kids
riding a “closed” course while the adults ride
trails and roads in the area.
“For the kid’s ride, the first day we ride at
Clough State Park, and the second day a
generous land-owner allows us to ride on his
land.”
This year was the 32nd New England
Classic Charity Trail Ride and according to
the MVTR website, “In thirty years this ride
has donated over one million seven hundred
thousand dollars [90 cents of every dollar
Colin Bernard shows off his top fundraising
going directly to research].”
trophy and the gift he received from a
Colin, 12, has been participating in the event
grateful 3-year-old with Cystic Fibrosis. (
for three years and each year he has earned
Photo/Mary Pritchard
the trophy for top fundraiser in the kid’s
division.
“It’s a really good cause,” he said. “I became interested because lots of my friends from racing do it. I usually
race every weekend, so it’s nice to just ride this one with friends. Usually with traveling and racing, we are too
busy to just hang out. It’s cool to hang out with my racing friends, see the scenery, and meet more friends from
other states – it’s a lot of fun.”
The ride is a family event as Colin’s parents, David and Charlene, attend and his three older brothers, Trevor,
Brendan and Shane, either ride in it or volunteer to work at the ride.
An incoming seventh-grader at Oak Middle school, Colin said he plans to do this ride every year.
“It makes me feel good that I can raise money to help this cause so we can help more people who have Cystic
Fibrosis [CF],” he said. “Last year we were told that there was a drug that was working for one form of CF, and
this year we were told that drug is in production.”
Colin said there were about 500 to 600 riders at the event, about 60 of them in the kids ride. He has received
lots of support from his school community at Sherwood Middle School while he was fundraising for this year’s
ride, which took place June 9.
“I provided containers for classrooms and was allowed to make announcements asking the school community
to help me with donations,” he said. “Donations were collected for two weeks and the team with the highest
donation got their choice of a pizza party or ice cream social. My own team, 6 White, won. I also held a “Give
Back Night” at Chili’s – the restaurant donated a percentage of customer’s total check to the ride.”
This year, Colin raised about $2,400 for the cause.
“I actually collected more than the adult top fundraiser,” he said. “In three years, I’ve raised more than $5,000.
Each year the top fundraiser gets their picture taken with someone with Cystic Fibrosis. This year, the picture
was with a 3-year-old named Rosie, who made me a gift. It was really cool – I’ve gotten trophies which are
great, but this is hand-made by someone who is directly affected by the ride – they know that every dollar is
going to help them.”
2012 New England Classic Banquet
MVTR President’s Welcome Presentation
For all of the members of the Merrimack Valley Trail Riders, I welcome you to New Hampshire
and to the 32nd New England Classic Charity Trail Ride.
Allow me, if you will, to make mention that in 1972 a bunch of off-road bike riders got
together and incorporated as the Merrimack Valley Trail Ride (MVTR). That was 40 years ago
last month. Quietly, we’re celebration 40 years of “Promoting the safe and responsible
enjoyment of the sport”.
Over theses years, 15-20 riders grew to become a family of 300. The MVTR family reached out
and became a part of NETRA and the New England riding community.
Though tonight’s gathering is a celebration of the weekend and what we want to do for the
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. On behalf of
the CF Foundation and MVTR, I feel it is
also an opportunity to remember and
recognize the loss of MVTR family
members Billy Cannon and Rick Manion,
both supporters of the Classic. Also on a
long road to recovery, is Fred Michelle
who this spring hit a deer on his road
bike. I expect we have lost others within our riding community, our sympathy
to their families and friends.
32 years ago the Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation came into the life of MVTR.
Over time, the Foundation and the
Classic Trail Ride became a thread in the
fabric of the Club. Likewise, MVTR, The
MVTR President Tom Levesque
Classic, New England Clubs and you
riders have become a part of the CF
Foundation and individual CF families. Families like the Davies, Rosie being pictured in this
year’s brochure; the Short family, Daniele and her family join us this evening. Other CF
families cut and rolled your route sheets, put together the giveaway bags and performed other
background functions. You and the Classic have been recognized during National CF briefings
and formal activities. We’ve all become one, in our efforts to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.
The event videos we’ve enjoyed over the years have ended. Why? The cost to produce them
wasn’t being off-set by those sold. The committee felt the monies could be better served for CF
research. However, with the advent of the helmet cam, hand held recorders and the expertise
of you riders, we hope someone will volunteer to bring back the video in the future.
After some whining I’ve heard about last year’s rain, I hope to hear praise for the beautiful day
we had today and we can expect the same for tomorrow.
This year’s trail selection and setup seemed to please most everyone. This morning’s first mile
or so of grease was balanced by that last section in the pines; it topped off a great day.
Tomorrow, there will be new stuff added to trails you’ve enjoyed before.
Thank you for coming, thank you for supporting the cause. Have a safe day tomorrow!
Competitive or Conquering a Challenge
Mom’s as racers….
We had (Tami Preve, Lynne Anthony and Jenn Zen) started off hoping to finish one lap of a Jr. Enduro
without houring out (back in 2011). That was our challenge. Once we accomplished that, we upped our
game goal to two laps. If we were lucky, possibly three. As we meet each of these challenges, our pit
crews and supporters have been cheering us on along the way.
Since the early Jr. Enduros of 2012 or the first race of the new season, it has come to my attention that
our cheerleaders have switched gears (gone from 1st to 4th, 4th gear being one I never see) from cheers of
support and encouragement to: “Don’t pit!, Drink from your camel pack!” or for one of the other ladies,
“Hurry up!, Drink fast and go!” By golly, I believe our challenge has turned into competition, but by and
for whom?
We girls of course, buckle down and go to the best of our ability, setting the next challenge of either
catching the lady in front or believe it or not, the young man (teenager, less than half hour age) that may
be in front of us. Usually, we are trying not to be lapped too many times, but now being lapped is
lessening and the ability to catch some of those young men improving.
Some say we are competitive, I’d say we are conquering the challenge of doing better each time and
accomplishing something we hadn’t been able to do before. I do have to say, we would not have been able
to meet each challenge without the support of our immediate family as well as our extended NETRA
family. Thank you for all your support and patience.
~One of the mom racers, Tami Preve
Mountain View Turkey Run A Success
Congratulations to Paul Zanis and his
crew for putting on the first Mountain
View turkey run. Almost 100 riders
showed up at the picturesque private
airstrip atop a hill in Wolfeboro and
enjoyed great day of riding. Paul is
working with landowners in the area
to develop a trail system that could be
used for a future Mountain View
Enduro. If Paul is successful we can
expect plenty of work parties next
summer.
Touchdown at the airfield after the 125 mile
ride
(Right) Dan Pollock, Colin Dodd, Ron Sousa
talk with Paul Zanis before the start of the
Ride.
MVTR Members Do Well In The NETRA Junior
Enduro And Hare Scramble Series
Jeremy Anthony - Champion for Bigwheel in Junior
Enduros & Hare Scrambles
Andy Anthony - B Senior Champion for Hare
Scrambles with MVTR members Jim St. Laurent
following with 2nd and Jim Piasick finishing 5th in B
Senior, after being promoted mid season from C
Senior, where he finished the year in 4th. It was great
watching these three battle it out each race!
John Harriman - Super Senior A/B Champion in Hare
Scrambles
Alan Tucker - Masters Champion in Hare Scrambles
(with Tom Levesque as a very close second)
Zacharey Zins - Junior Champion in the Junior Enduro
Series and 4th in B 200 in the Hare Scramble Series
Shawn Levesque finished 12 overall in the Hare
Scrambles series. He held on to his AA plate for the
2013 season
Dan Goncalves - 3rd in A250 Hare Scrambles
Hunter Preve - 17th in C200 Hare Scrambles &
10th in Junior Enduros
Christopher Tower - 14th in Mini Hare
Scrambles & 10th in the Mini Junior Program
Jacob Zins – 4th in Big Wheel Jr. Enduro
John Ruffo - 3rd in Super Senior C
JD Mott - 4th in Super Senior C
Matthew St. Laurent - 7th in Mini Hare
Scrambles & 8th in Mini Enduros
And we can't forget Peyton Preve, our fastest
pee wee rider
Submitted by Lynne Anthony
John Ruffo raced in every series offered in the area. Most
went better then this log crossing at a J-Day.
Champion Jeremy Anthony in action.