History

The National ATV/Quad Association idea was born at the 2001 COHV National Conference, ” Meeting of the Minds.” Moving the idea forward at that time was difficult because most Provincial rider federations were in their infancy and lacked the financial strength to do so!

In October 2004, I contacted The Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council – COHV. I got a list of contacts: Rick Noseworthy-NL, Ray Gouthro-NS, Jacques Poirier-NB, Danny Gagnon-Que, John Broderick-Ont, Bob Smith-Alta, Pat McHugh-BC, and we spent thousands of telephone hours building the framework of what is now known as AQCC. On October 06, 2006, almost 2 years to the day AQCC was incorporated, I would like to thank the above members for their dedication in making this happen.

The seven delegates mentioned above are passionate about uniting common goals and helping the rider federations build strength through sharing ideas and building relationships.

Although Ray Gouthro, Danny Gagnon and Bob Smith are credited with being the founding directors of AQCC, it would not have been possible without the effort of all seven delegates.

The AQCC’s mandate is simple: “to improve the sport of All-Terrain Vehicle/Quad Riding nationally.” As the seven original delegates, we realize the rider federations may change their representation on the AQCC board for one reason or another. Still, we hope the mandate and the guiding principles will help them represent their rider federation wisely. Note—AQCC is not a governing body!

The Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council—COHV—was tremendously helpful with financial and data support. Without the data support provided by COHV, our job in bringing this all together would have been difficult. Without the financial support, it would have been impossible, and for this help, we would like to recognize COHV as a partner in the birth of AQCC.