The 100 Mile Snowmobile Club has great plans for the upcoming season, but their membership has to grow to make it all possible.
The popular snow drags have the green light for Feb. 25 and 26 after taking a one-year hiatus. It was brought about by organizer burnout but club president Al Reichardt says they’re ready again to give it another go.
“Nobody wanted to do it last year but hopefully it will be as good as always.” The drags take place at the club track at 99 Mile.
The annual general meeting held on Oct. 19 was not encouraging, says Reichardt with only six people present.
He adds that while they see good participation from non-members at their events and club rides, people are reluctant to join the club and that puts the organization in a precarious position.
“People need to know that with no snowmobile club, we don’t have a voice to keep trails open and get funding. Nobody wants to give money to a club that only has six members.”
The club plans to groom 100 km of trails this season and Reichardt says that if more people buy memberships, they will be able to do more next year.
Single memberships cost $60, couples are $80 and the cost for a family of four is $100. Each additional family member is charged $20. Membership includes a trail use pass, limited insurance and membership to the Association of BC Snowmobile Clubs. Memberships can be purchased at local snowmobile dealers.
The club has a few rides already planned for the season including an overnighter to Clearwater, a day trip to Wells, starting in Likely and their Winterfest ride to benefit disabled children which will take participants to Helena Lake for a wiener roast.
On the current agenda is an ATV ride and trail maintenance day planned for Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. People will meet at the clubhouse located on Ainsworth Road, 2 km south of town and they are asked to bring gloves and a chainsaw if possible.
On Nov. 22, the Bombardier company will offer an avalanche awareness course at the clubhouse.
For more information about the club, contact Reichardt at 250-791-6322.
