Canadians, including this writer, are often seen as exceptionally courteous, for better or for worse. This reputation for politeness holds its own among other quintessentially Canadian elements like hockey, universal healthcare, and Drake. Interestingly, this gentleness also seems to translate to the world of exotic car rallies—a scenario that might come as a surprise, given the typical image associated with that community.
In the second episode of Vice‘s automotive documentary series, “Smoke Show,” audiences get an inside look at the North Face Rally and its elusive leader, known as “Ghostrider.” Think of it as the Gold Rush Rally, but with a distinctly Canadian flair, both in location and demeanor.
Shortly after hitting the road in his Lamborghini Huracan towards a track day near Ottawa, Ghostrider and his group make a pit stop at a Petro-Canada gas station. Here, they encounter a member of the Ontario Provincial Police, leading to what may be the most quintessentially Canadian police interaction.
After a friendly warning—reportedly the only kind of warning one can receive in Canada—Ghostrider extends an offer to the officer: would he like to take the Huracan for a quick spin? The officer enthusiastically accepts.
However, the next interaction between the North Face Rally crew and the OPP was likely not as friendly. Ghostrider, along with eleven other rally participants, had their vehicles seized for “stunt driving,” a story we covered here at The Drive a couple of months back. In Ontario, getting caught driving 50 km/h (about 31 mph) over the speed limit results in immediate vehicle impoundment and a week’s suspension of the driver’s license.
*Note: Although The Drive is an American outlet, the author of this article is proudly from and currently based in Toronto.
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