Romping roadkill in Caledonia

“It’s been something we’ve thought about for a while, as more bikes come around the area,” says David Freeman, president of the Queens County Fair Association.

The romp goes from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with bike games, a burnout competition, a show and shine, and lawn tractor games. Bike shops, from around the province, from retail to customization, are setting up as well. A canteen will be available. Admission to the Romp is $2.

Freeman says the interest has been high. “We’ve got it advertised from one end of the province to the other.”

All events are taking place at the Queens County Fair Grounds in the outdoor ring, but if the weather turns messy the backup plan is to move inside the arena.

The idea came about as a way to boost the Queens County Fair, which is struggling a bit financially. “All the fairs are having trouble getting sponsors, especially in the economic times. I wanted to get something going with motorcycles for everybody to enjoy.”

Freeman is an avid motorcyclist himself, along with many members of his family, and was inspired by the Wharf Rat Rally that takes place in Digby each year. “Where we were in the county and not near water, we wanted to come up with some sort of catchy name.” “Roadkill Romp” was suggested, and the name stuck.

Freeman says they hope to make it an annual event that grows each year.