CLUB NEWS » CANORA, SK
Trakking through the snow
Despite a few challenges, it was a successful season for this group of riders
by KIRSTEN ARMLEDER
 |
GETTING VERTICAL: One reason why Canora is a great place to ride is because of the hard work of the Trakkers Snow Club.
—photo by Kevin Lakeman |
Situated in east-central Saskatchewan, the town of Canora is a hub for recreational pursuits, tourist activities and economic possibilities. However, for members of the Trakkers Snow Club, it is the abundant snowmobiling opportunities they are most proud of.
"We have a bit of everything: hills for the boys with big toys to wide open groomed and very well-marked trails for those who are out for the day," said Sharon Monich, president of Trakkers Snow Club.
There are approximately 85 kilometres of groomed trails that take riders through wooded forests, across wide open fields, over smooth rolling hills, along sparkling rivers and near frozen lakes. An advantage for sledders in Canora is the town's close proximity to Duck Mountain Provincial Park and Good Spirit Lake Provincial Park—which means riders have access to an even larger web of trail systems.
Over the years, the Trakkers Snow Club has worked very hard to establish the sledding in Canora. Countless volunteer hours are spent maintaining trails, erecting signs, repairing warm-up shelters and organizing events. According to Monich, the club has had its share of ups and downs but they are delighted with this year's increase in membership.
"At the beginning of the season we didn't know if we were going to groom or not and the old executive wanted to resign because of the lack of membership," said Monich. "So a new executive took over and we went from about a dozen active members to over 80 new and old members."
Monich is especially pleased with the number of young people who have joined.
"Our club is trying to involve the young people," said Monich. "As a mother, grandmother and president of the Trakkers I would like to see more activities, like snowmobiling, for our children and adults."
Members are also working to raise money for a groomer; currently, the snowmobile club in Yorkton helps groom trails but Monich believes it's vital for the Trakkers to have their own machine.
"We need to keep on grooming and signing trails so people feel safe and trust where we are taking them on these trails," said Monich.
Overall, it was a successful year for the Trakkers Snow Club. Monich looks forward to next season and how the club can contribute to the sledding in Canora.
"It makes my heart burst with joy to see that people take the time for family and a wonderful sport like snowmobiling," said Monich.
|
