The CPCA's return to the racetrack reached the maximum amount of fans, based on government restrictions on gatherings. (submitted/CVM Photography)

By battlefordsNOW Staff

Chucks return

CPCA welcomes back fans in 2021 debut

Jun 25, 2021 | 3:56 PM

Chuckwagon racing is back after a year-long hiatus.

The Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association 2021 season is underway, with its first tour stop in Poundmaker Cree Nation. It’s also the first well-attended sporting event in the region since COVID-19 pandemic restrictions began in March of 2020. CPCA Manager Kim Carey said they maxed out capacity, based on the province’s restrictions.

“We had our 150 in the stands and then people in vehicles parked around the track,” she said. “So, they were in their own vehicles with their own cohorts and could enjoy it safely.”

On Day 1, veteran driver Brad McMann took first place with a time of 1:16.34. B.J. Carey and Ryan Baptiste rounded out the top three, while defending CPCA Champion Todd Baptiste had a slow start, finishing 25^th.

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The CPCA is featuring 32 wagons, a total much higher than in some recent years. Carey said there’s also been an encouraging amount of support and interest from local businesses.

“Our numbers are up, more dashes than we have had for some time,” she said. “Everyone’s been trying to help out and we’re really glad to be back on the road.”

Between the attendance and atmosphere, residents in the region were excited to get out and take in the event. Carey said there were also a lot of reunions, of family and friends.

“Everybody hasn’t necessarily seen each other since 2019,” she said. “There’s that camaraderie and family aspect of [the event] that’s great, everyone was grinning ear to ear.”

There are some returning drivers who had left for a few years, as well several new drivers to the association. Six rookies joined the CPCA this season, all of which were looking to make their mark this weekend. Calvin Fiddler of Meadow Lake had the best debut showing of that group, finishing 16 with a time of 01:19.6. Colby Stanley, another Meadow Lake newcomer, finished 21.

On the technical side of things, Carey said it was also encouraging, given the absence of operating in 2020.

“Twelve full heats and everything ran pretty smoothly,” Carey said.

Day 2 gets underway at 6:30 p.m. The event wraps up on Sunday.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.ca

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