Summerland NewsHorse trainer recounts desperate evacuation through flames during Bald Range wildfire'Fire was on both sides'ContributedA South Okanagan equestrian instructor and horse trainer says she escaped the Bald Range wildfire near Summerland with a herd of horses at the last possible moment on Friday. The fire was on both sides of the road," Van Baalen said, her voice thick with emotion. Van Baalen previously spoke with Castanet preparing to participate in the Mongol Derby, the “longest and toughest horse race in the world” in 2027. Community shines throughThrough all the hardships of this volatile wildfire, Van Baalen is finding the silver lining. Van Baalen said she feels lucky that she's been able to build a beautiful community with local horse owners.