ARCOLA - Great weather and adequate snow contributed to the Optimist Club of Arcola holding a very successful snowmobile rally this past Saturday. Due to the pandemic, there was a virtual rally in 2021 but this year it returned to normal.
There were 407 riders in this year’s event. The trail headed west to Kisbey and then north to Moose Mountain Provincial Park. The snowmobilers then travelled east using the groomed trails of the Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club.
Then they headed south across Highway 13 a few kilometres west of Carlyle and then returned west to Arcola and Prairie Place. The trip was approximately 100 kilometers in length and took between three and four hours to complete.
Optimist president Blake Brownridge was extremely pleased with the day’s activities and the good turnout.
“This is the Optimist Club’s largest fundraiser of the year. We have so many people to thank. Purechem Services sponsored the snacks and hot chocolate on the trail. Pioneer Ridgeline Agri Services sponsored the concession, and the beer gardens was sponsored by J & J Trucking. The Grade 12 class sold popcorn and the 4-H club was in charge of cleanup. I really want to thank the Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club for providing us with the use of their very well-groomed trials.”
The day began with a pancake breakfast served to around 100 snowmobilers, sponsored by the RM of Brock and the Town of Arcola. The Carlyle and District Foodbank served both the lunch and supper to this day’s event, with chairperson Theresa Luedtke advising that 180 suppers were served.
After more than 100 prizes were handed out to the riders, the lottery winners were drawn. Shannon George of Redvers took the top prize, Danette Schiestel of Arcola won second and Michel George of Bellegarde won third.
Although at this time it is not known what the exact net proceeds were, Brownridge estimates that likely over $20,000.00 was fundraised for the Optimist Club and another $20,000 was brought in on the rally day and advertising sponsorship. He added, “Right now the club has earmarked 75 per cent of the lottery profits to go towards Prairie Place, with the remainder distributed to the Ed Hanna Play Park.
“Profits from the rally day and sponsorship will go to several community organizations that help make the day a success. On behalf of the Optimist Club, I thank you for your ongoing support. Remember, it will be our 30th annual snowmobile rally next year.”
