BRP hosts largest Spyder gathering

From Bombardier Recreational Products

VALCOURT, QC – In late June, the largest BRP gathering of roadsters ever assembled made the journey to Maggie Valley, NC to partake in the fourth-annual North American Can-Am Spyder Owners Event.

Nearly 430 Can-Am Spyder roadsters and 660 people attended the event and made the trek across North America to take part in the celebration in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

Spyder roadster owners, some of whom traveled from as far away as Europe to attend, were given the opportunity to interact with fellow event participants and meet and ride with BRP officials. This year’s experience was designed to let owners gather, share stories and, all in all, have both a memorable and enjoyable weekend. It included a customization contest and a grand prize drawing for a trip to Europe for the 2012 Pan-European roadster owners event.

“Everyone at BRP anticipates the annual Can-Am Spyder roadster event because it allows us to speak one-on-one with our most dedicated customers,” said Yves Leduc, vice-president and general manager, North America division. “Not only can we discuss the product, but we get to ride with these Can-Am enthusiasts and learn about their experiences aboard our roadster.

"This year was not only important because of where we held the event, but also because it was BRP's largest Spyder roadster gathering to date. The attendance speaks volumes for the success of this vehicle and the passion our owners have for it.”

The welcoming event was held Friday night at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. Saturday featured all-day rides throughout the famous scenic riding area surrounding Maggie Valley. While many riders were caught in an intense afternoon thunderstorm, it didn't deter anyone.

In the evening, BRP hosted a free barbecue dinner and announced the winners of the customization contest and European vacation experience. Rhonda Marsh of Sevierville, TN, with her modified Spyder RS roadster was named best-in show by a panel of BRP judges. She was awarded a $1,500 BRP parts and accessories gift certificate. By far, the big winner of the night was Lowell Kursinsky of Warren, MI, who won an all-expenses paid trip for two to the 2012 Pan-European Can-Am Roadster Owners Event to be held next summer.

After the celebration at Maggie Valley, several Can-Am Spyder roadster owners had a chance to take an optional Sunday ride to the famous “Tail of the Dragon” section of US-129, an 11-mile (18km) stretch of road known for its more than 300 curves. While the ride started out in the rain, the sun was shining for the Dragon portion. It was the perfect icing on the cake for this fourth-annual celebration.