ST. ANTONY — UTV enthusiasts and vendors from all over the country set up camp at the St. Anthony Sand Dunes this weekend, for eastern Idaho’s biggest utility terrain vehicle event.
The UTV Invasion began Thursday Sept. 3 and runs through Labor Day. More than 1,000 locals and out-of-state visitors loaded up their RV’s and hitched their trailers at the dunes for what is essentially a UTV expo.
“These are some of the largest dunes in North America,” organizer Dave Kuski said, “Just huge, steep. Big huge bowls for some big, long great runs.”
The UTV Invasion features sand sport activities, musical performances, games and giveaways. People can stay for a day or camp-out at the event. It’s an opportunity to meet people who share the same passion, see the latest products in sand and dirt sports, and of course ride the dunes.
“So the one thing that’s really interesting about sand sports is that it’s the only off-road related activity where you can define your own trail … when you’re out in the dunes you’re making your own way,” organizer Mike McGroarty said.
McGroarty, who owns Idaho Dunes RV, said a lot of preparation went into this year’s event, and the numbers have only grown since last year.
“This event we’ll have about 300 people camping in site, so we are estimating that to be about 1,200 people,” said McGroarty.
Ronnie Renner, a professional free rider and gold Medalist at the Moto X – Step Up X Games, made an appearance as part of his free ride tour.
“I get to do all kinds of riding around the world, and I’d say the Sand Dunes are my favorite,” Renner said, “It’s only my second time here to St. Anthony, and I really dig it. I kind of know the lay of the land and there’s a lot of variety and a lot of good stuff.”
Timothy McCollister, an enthusiast from Eureka, California, said that he and his friends come from all over the northwest to ride the dunes.
“The UTV Invasions brings a lot of people — from senior citizens like myself to people five, or six years of age, riding and enjoying events like this,” McCollister said.
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