Embers in the Backroad Ball’s communal fire pit were still glowing and spitting early Saturday morning as the first early risers were getting out of their tents. A few ladies – still rocking their comfy pyjamas – were making a bee-line for the coffee tent. The smell of eggs and bacon filled the air. As more ladies ventured out into the cool, crisp morning, an excited energy took over the Backroad Ball grounds. The quiet whispers from early risers turned into excited chatter.

The sun was hot, the grass was green, the music was pumping and the grounds were ready. A low rumble could be heard in the distance on Penobsquis’ otherwise quiet Route 114. We checked the time: 3:57pm. It was time to welcome our first group of female motorcyclists to the first ever (and now annual) BACKROAD BALL!! Women of all ages arrived in groups of 2 or 3 to upwards of 10-15. They quickly unpacked, set up camp and mingled; some newly licensed (like, we’re talking a coupl