And they’re off! The Badlands to Banff bike tour pedaled away from Drumheller on Friday morning, August 5, 2016. The youth, along with Drumheller RCMP Constable Craig Nelson and guides from Two-Wheel View are completing the trek, camping along the way. Many of the riders are also registered in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and the trek fulfills a component of the program. Have a safe and fun ride.

Local up-and-coming motocross racer Zach Wood has been making a name for himself on the DORVAMX track and successfully competed at the championship series hosted in Drumheller this weekend. 

Now in his second year racing competitively, Zach is hitting his stride in the junior class and seeing results on the track. 

“It’s just the way he’s grown into the sport, the DORVA family is proud of him and kind of taken him under their wing,” said his mother Amy Wood.  

“They’re impressed with how he’s developed. He can do tricks and jumps, tripling into things. He’s excelling hugely.”

DORVA organizer Brad Peake said Zach was a standout because he sees potential in his riding abilities. 

“He always had that natural ability,” said Peake. “He maybe didn’t have the confidence in himself that we all did.”

The Mail had a chance to interview Zach prior to the races this weekend. 

How old are you? 

15.

What bike do you race? 

2015 Kawasaki 250f.

What would be your dream bike? 

2017 Kawasaki 250f.

Who’s your favourite rider and what do you like about them? 

Ken Roczen. He’s worked so hard and has become one of the leading champions of the racing industry. 

How did you get started racing motocross? 

All my friends got me into it and I liked it so much I decided to take it to the next level. I’ve been riding for 3 years. 

Does motocross run in the family? 

Power sports run in the family – motocross and quadding.

What is the best part of competing in your sport? 

The competition and the adrenaline rush you get, and it’s just overall a fun sport. 

What do you love about it? 

The sportsmanship and the competitive competition. 

What is the most challenging part of your sport? 

Physical endurance. 

How would your teammates and competitors describe you? 

A fun person to be with on and off the track and puts the time and effort to get the results he wants. 

What are your goals this season? 

To become an all around better rider. 

How long do you see yourself riding for? Hopefully till I’m 80. 

Have you ever been hurt while riding? 

Yes, but not seriously. I know it’s a matter of when I get hurt, not if I will get hurt. 

How would you rate Drumheller’s track? 

Fun and relaxed.