Turning Out for an Artctic Adventure in Virginia

The Shenandoah 500 is a 500km, 300 mile, two-day AMA Suzuki National Dual Sport ride that has attracted riders from across the continental United States. For example, out of the entries from 16 states, this year's distance award was handed to a California rider who decided to enjoy the Fall Virginia colors, which come earlier in the elevation of the Shenandoah mountain range. Although the weather is typically benign, those colors would come at a heavy price this year.

In anticipation of the upcoming April 13, 2008 Spring Trail Ride, Trail Rider Magazine published a writeup on the 2007 STR, check it out!

(c) March 2008; Reprinted courtesy of Trail Rider Magazine (www.trailrider.com)

The Spring Trial Ride was a wet one this year. Despite the rain, 69 riders turned out to ride and seemed happy rain or shine. With the donations from participants, close to $2,000 was raised for the Optimist Club of King George, a great cause - funding college scholarships for King George County's youth.

Thanks to each and every participant and their family for coming out to this truly outstanding event. NVTR would also like to thank the event sponsors: Coleman Powersports, Fredericksburg Motor Sports, Motorcycle Factory Inc. and JT Motorsports.

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 Old Dominion Endurance Race - June 11,2005

Since its evolution from the U.S. Cavalry Mounted Service Cup to its present day format, the Old Dominion horse adventure remains a true test of one horse, one rider and the trail:  scenic, spectacular, historic, undeniably difficult but ultimately a ride that you can complete. The Old Dominion is what the slogan of the American Endurance Ride Conference means: "To finish is to win."

NVTR has been point riding the OD for years ensuring the course is well marked and signage has not been altered. ODER has tried many different means to ensure a safe adventure for the horsemen and horsewomen, and have found riders on dual sport motorcycles are best able to cover the challenging terrain repair any signage problems, and remain well ahead of the horses.

Nine hours, 90 miles, and 7000 feet in major elevation gains later we were "home" - back to our base camp.

Please Note: NVTR is graciously invited to assist the Old Dominion Endurance Rides through a one day Special Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service. All of the trails described in this report are closed to motorized vehicles with the exception of Peters Mill. We have been able to help the ODER over the years make their event safe for their riders by countering vandals in the forest that intentionally destroy or modify their course markings.

Never ride a closed trail!