NEW MINAS, N.S. — The poor weather was no speed bump during the fourth annual Valley Tire Ltd. 4X4 Truck Rally at Jones Pit May 18-19.
Proceeds that were raised over the weekend went to support the New Minas Volunteer Fire Department and Northeast Kings Education Centre students taking part in the March Break 2020 Europe trip. Rains early on Saturday morning settled into the gravel pit at the end of Jones Road. As the rain stopped and the races began, there was plenty of crowd-pleasing mud on hand.
The events for the day included SxS, six cylinder, Stock8, Sportsman, Prolite, Pro Mod, Super Stock, Pro Stock, and Modified. It was also the first year that a women’s class was added, allowing for better inclusion within the club and the community.
The mixture of dirt and water made for some interesting matchups. Rather than kicking up dust this weekend, racers were fighting through puddles of murky water and pockets of thick mud. The unusual conditions caused traction issues for some, while others were able to fly down the strip undeterred. The experience and skill of the driver became a big factor, as it took more than just raw power to complete the slippery course.
Spectators didn’t seem to mind the weather, either. Some came prepared with umbrellas and rain boots, while others went a step beyond, using their trailers for their trucks as cover from the elements.
As the day went on, the mud was becoming thicker. With the level of difficulty increasing over time, each race brought its own challenges and surprises.
Drivers could be seen drifting through patches of mud, spraying waves of it as they slid. The giant pools of water that gathered throughout the day made for some crowd-pleasing splashes at the finish line.
The day was packed full of excitement, with one heat after another. The Kings County Off-Road Racing Club was tasked with ensuring everything went as smoothly as possible.
The next chance to see action in the pit comes with the 41st annual Thunder in the Valley Rally for the close of the Maritime Off-Road Racing season on Oct. 12-13. According to Kings County Off-Road Racing Club president Steve Gillis, the competition is ramped up in the fall with the addition of a hill-climbing event.
Editor's Note: This story has been updated to include both groups that received funding.
