After a history-making 1,340 off-road vehicles (ORVs) crossed the Mackinac Bridge in October of 2015, it’s no surprise that organizers are excited and ready to announce this year’s date of October 1, 2016 for the return event.
ATVs, side-by-sides, and off-road motorcycles are once again invited to participate in this one-of-a-kind parade for a nominal registration fee that includes a lunch and other perks.
Janet Peterson, Executive Director of the St. Ignace Chamber of Commerce, said the massive turn-out to the inaugural event was special in more ways than one.
“We are told that the 2015 event had the largest number of entries for any ORV event in Michigan history,” she explained, adding that ORV clubs across the state have vowed to see those numbers double this year. It was also the first time ATVs had been allowed to cross the bridge.
Registration is already up and running and riders have already begun signing up for the fall event. The ride was the brain child of John Chad, an advocate for those who enjoy riding ATVs. While his death meant Chad didn’t get to experience the event, he is credited for planting the seed to start this new tradition.
More than just a Mackinac Bridge crossing, there are a number of activities planned for the weekend. Participants are able to park their SxS or ATV after the ride and enjoy the free shuttle provided by the St. Ignace Events Committee for the remainder of the weekend. Special awards are given in a variety of categories and 2015 participants say the camaraderie only added to the fun.
The official start to the crossing will begin at 10am, with lunch served afterward from 11am-2pm and a beer tent with live music from 11am - 6pm. Awards and prizes will be doled out at 5pm. All post-crossing events will occur at the Little Bear East Arena.
Registration deadline is September 23, 2016. To register or for more information about the event and area lodging, visit stignace.com or saintignace.org.
