BCSF SnoScene

By Erin Hart, President
FINAL
MESSAGE
Remember, “principles before personalities”
As I write this final president’s message for
the 2014-2015 season, we are on the eve of
the BCSF 50th anniversary celebrations in
100 Mile House.
Many of us have experienced one of the
lowest snow years in decades and, to be honest, I’m feeling pretty cheated about the nonsnow season that has passed us by. All we
can do at this point is look forward to a better sled season for 2015-2016 and anticipate
a really fun-filled spring/summer 2015.
Speaking of 2016, I have to hand it to
Yamaha, Arctic Cat, BRP and Polaris with
the release of their new models. Even with
the disappointing season, the release of the
new iron just gets the sledding fraternity all
abuzz in anticipation of the upcoming season. I urge all sledders to support your local
dealers if you are in the market for a new or
used machine and for all your aftermarket
needs. Your local dealer typically supports
the initiatives of the regional clubs with
many fundraising requests and donations.
So, how about showing your appreciation
with your patronage?
On the topic of donations, I have to express
a hearty thank you to the many volunteers
and local sponsors that have made Snowarama such a great success for this past season.
Also, a huge thanks to those of you who
opened up your wallet and donated. At this
point, I am unaware of how well we did
province-wide but from the reports I have
received, the BCSF anticipates a combined
member club donation of well over $40,000
to Easter Seals camps for kids with disabilities. Great job everyone!
The new off-road vehicle (ORV) legislation
continues to be a huge source of frustration
for the BCSF. Donegal and I have spent a
considerable amount of time working
through the issues that remain. To deal with
the metal licence plate issue, we have illustrated to government and ICBC that simply
affixing a decal to the hood is far more palatable to the general sled community. We have
provided examples from other provinces and
U.S. states and actual photos of how this
would work, yet seemingly we have been ignored up to this point. Donegal continues to
receive calls from members about ICBC offices not being able to create the $10 refund
for previously registered sleds. We are also
working through parking lot issues and overzealous enforcement officers demanding
that mandatory insurance be placed on sleds
due to the fact that they consider an unloading area as part of the public roadway. To say
that we are frustrated is definitely putting it
mildly, but we will continue to lobby government to find a proper resolution to these issues. However, might I ask a favour of all of
you who read this article? If you have run
into issues and want to let government know
about your displeasure, please email Vera
Vukelich, manager, Land Policy and Programs, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations at vera.vukelich@
gov.bc.ca and cc myself ([email protected]) and/or Donegal ([email protected]) with that
email. It is my hope that with
enough feedback Vera will be
able to fully understand the issues we are having with the ORV
framework.
By the time you receive this
issue of SnoRiders, the BCSF’s
50th anniversary celebrations in
100 Mile House will be over.
Much thought and effort have
gone into this event and I want to
personally thank Donegal Wilson
(BCSF executive director), MLA Donna Barnett (MLA for the Cariboo-Chilcotin) and
Les Austin of the Houston Snowmobile Club
for helping plan and organize this event.
Also, a huge thanks to the 100 Mile Snowmobile Club and the District of 100 Mile
House for being such great hosts! I also want
to recognize the five gentlemen that had the
foresight to create the BC Snow Vehicle Association back in 1965—Mr. Ronald Dent
(barrister & solicitor) of North Vancouver;
Percy E. Steele (businessman) of Prince
George; Jim Watters (businessman) of 100
Mile House; G.J. Steele (businessman) of
Prince George; and Don D. Ellis (businessman) of Kelowna. We don’t have any pictures of these early pioneers of the B.C.
Snowmobile Federation, but if any of you do
have any history on these gentlemen, please
get hold of us so that we can add to our historical perspective of the BCSF.
I am happy to report that the talks with
ABCSnow and the BC Snowmobile Federation have continued along quite nicely. I personally was hoping to have a grand
announcement at the 50th anniversary celebration but as volunteer president, other important matters like family and the paying
job took precedence, and I was unable to
complete this task in the timeline I had selfimposed on myself. I am confident that by
the time the 2015-2016 season commences,
we will have a full announcement to bring
forth to you, the members.
In summary, sure, it was a disappointing
snow year but from the BCSF side, we continue to forge forward to represent organized
snowmobiling in the province. It is never
without its challenges so I have to thank my
board of directors for all the volunteer time
they have put forth this season. Without
them, I dare say that this provincial organization would not be as effective as
it is. I would be remiss in not recognizing the tremendous efforts
put forth by Donegal Wilson, the
BCSF executive director. This
lady goes above and beyond in
her efforts to guide the BCSF.
Anyone that deals with her
knows how passionate she is
about snowmobiling in B.C.
Thank you Donegal! And finally,
I want to recognize the efforts of
our outgoing treasurer, Vic Lockhart. Vic has been a steady hand
in helping with the restructuring
of the BCSF. Not only has he volunteered his
time for his home club (Kelowna Snowmobile Club) but was instrumental in working
through the policy and bylaw restructuring
for the BCSF. His phrase “principles before
personalities” is a lesson all of us on the
board of directors of the BCSF remind ourselves of as we move forward. Thank you Vic
for the steady voice and guiding hand. It was
much appreciated and you will be missed.
Still, I know how to find you!
SP RIN G 2015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM / 21
SPECIAL REPORT
BCSF SnoScene
» CLUB NEWS
From the office
By Donegal Wilson
The FroSTbITTEN rider
By Richard Cronier, Vice-President
I was contemplating writing a story about
how you can have lots of firsts in your life
and that there are many memorable firsts
along with the occasional first that you wish
were your last. Often if the experience is bad
enough, it will be your last first and you will
never experience a bad first again. But if it is
a great first you will wish it was your first
every time you try it again. Sounds like a rendition of Abbott and Costello and their comedy act, Who’s on First? If you have never
heard of them—YouTube is a wonderful
thing.
Jonathan, my youngest of four, turned 15
last November and his mom and I were able
to witness his most important “first.” Of
course, I am talking
about his first snowmobile purchase—a hardearned purchase made
with hard-earned cash
using his back muscles at
his father’s lumberyard
all summer in the raging
heat and wind. Well,
those were his words anyway; I’ll leave that to a debate better had
when he is older. Nevertheless it was purchased with his money from his savings account at the local credit union. He has been
waiting for “the day,” the glorious day when
there would be a sled of his choice and he
would not have to share with his sister or
brothers.
His “first” day had apparently arrived as he
made all the arrangements for the transaction to happen, scheduling the pickup and
the time to meet with the seller. As I entered
the house, I barely had time to unlace my
boots before that never-bubbly teenager met
me with a very exuberant, “It’s time!”
Now the last time someone met me at the
door with those words, that person was my
22 / SPR I NG 2 015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM
wife, and she was telling me we were going to
the hospital to deliver this bouncing son of
mine. Less than excited by the raging snowstorm, wind and -20 C temperatures outside,
I had to ask, “What on earth is it time for,
son?” Almost speechless, and I repeat, almost, Jonathan replied, “My sled, today. We
are still picking it up, right?”
And so we drove in that snowstorm, wind
and -20 C, delivered an envelope of cash, and
he received a snowmobile in return. What’s a
dad to do? You see, I remember my first
snowmobile and the day my dad rode home
with me. I remember that feeling of knowing
that I chose the brand, I chose the colour and
I chose the model I wanted. This was the beginning of my riding experience and my riding
style. I want Jonathan to
feel the same way and to
develop into a rider one
snowdrift, one trail, one
mountaintop at a time.
Actually, as club president and BCSF vicepresident, I hope all new
riders and young riders get to enjoy their
“first.” I want them to choose their own rides
without peer pressure, and experience snowmobiling at their pace so they can enjoy it for
the great sport it is. I want their mountain
experience to be safe and without disaster
caused by poor judgment, poor choices, old
attitudes and no respect.
Jonathan is pictured enjoying his first
snowdrift on his first ride on his first very
own sled. Congratulations son—here’s to
your first ride to the mountains, your first
wiener roast, your first trail ride and your
first club event. To the many newbies who
purchased a “first” sled this year—enjoy your
purchase and enjoy the ride, but do it with
knowledge and respect.
The 2014/15 season is behind us and we
can only hope that the snow is better next
season. There are a few diehards out there
enjoying the spring riding, but for me it is time
to bring out the motorcycle.
By the time you read
this the 50th anniversary
kickoff will have happened in 100 Mile
House. A lot of planning
Donegal Wilson
went into this event to
help us begin celebrating the past 50 years.
It has been amazing to listen to some of the
reminiscing about the history of the BCSF
and the people out there that want to get involved in bringing some of the old events
back. We heard some rumblings about hosting a vintage oval race next season. So you
never know—the ovals may hear the sound
of snowmobiles again in B.C. This is just the
kickoff event so watch for events happening
all next season.
I have good news for next season! The Vernon Snowmobile Association (VSA) has decided to increase the size and duration of its
snow show. It is going to be held over two
days at Kal Tire Place in Vernon. This will
allow more vendors to fit into the space and
they are planning some great spectator
events to get people out. So mark your calendar now to attend the VSA Fall Snowmobile
Show on November 13 and 14 in Vernon.
Watch your inboxes: the new Let’s Ride BC
newsletter is launching this month. The intent of the newsletter is to promote snowmobiling in B.C. If you have an event, story,
photo, sponsor or snowmobile destination
that you want to highlight, please contact
the office or send to [email protected].
Another thing to watch for next season is
the launch of the new BCSF online SilkStart
Membership Management Project. We have
been using the system here at the BCSF this
season and will be rolling it out to the clubs
over the summer. This project will enable
our clubs to offer online renewals, automatic
renewals, membership specials and event
registration. For the clubs that choose to,
they can add on a new front-end website
that is drag-and-drop updateable. From the
member side you will be able to manage
your own profile and contact preferences,
check your status and complete renewals.
SPECIAL REPORT
BCSF SnoScene
A true inspiration
When Katie was 10, a family friend noticed
leadership among participants so they can
that she was walking strangely. The family
leave camp feeling better equipped to meet
decided to take Katie to the doctor and she
their personal and/or professional goals.
was diagnosed with Friedreich’s ataxia, a
When asked to describe her experience at
rare neuromuscular disease that causes proEaster Seals Camp, Katie replied: “It’s a realgressive damage to the nervous system, ocly amazing place with incredible people! It is
curring in approximately one in every
a home away from home where I can feel re50,000 people.
laxed. All of my problems just seem to vanish
“It affects my everyday life by limiting me
while I’m there. It’s great to meet new
to a wheelchair,” said Katie. “It affects all of
friends and everyone is so outgoing at camp!
my muscles including my heart. I have mild
My favourite memory at camp is laying on
scoliosis, which makes my
the trampoline at night with
speech difficult for others to
my group and having heartunderstand at times. But it
to-heart talks.”
does not stop me from the
Pamela
describes
her
things I enjoy doing.”
daughter as someone who is
Katie and her mom, Pamela,
very “unique, strong-willed,
first heard of Easter Seals
and determined. She amazes
Camp at the neuromuscular
me every day. She is always
clinic in B.C. Children’s Hospismiling even when the days
tal and a nurse suggested she
are tough. Katie has become a
give it a try. Like many young
great advocate for herself and
campers, Katie at first was
others. What can I say—she is
nervous at camp and a bit
my wonderful daughter and
Katie Schilling, B.C. Abassador for
homesick. It was also the first 2015, enjoyed life at camp.
she inspires me every day.”
camp she had ever attended,
Katie started a wheelchair
so that added to her nervousness. But by the
awareness day at her school (Nanaimo Disend of it, she was sad to leave and to know
trict Secondary School) where she arranged
that she had to wait until next year to come
for her fellow classmates to experience a day
back. She attended Easter Seals Camp
in a wheelchair. Katie is one of only two peoSquamish twice, in 2013 and 2014, and will
ple in a wheelchair, in a school of 1,500 stube returning again this year. She also hopes
dents.
that one day she can return to join the LeadThanks to fundraising events like
ers in Transition program, which is designed
Snowarama and Winterfest, Katie and over
for young adults aged 19 to 25. The aim of
800 other kids get to attend Easter Seals
the program is to promote and facilitate
Camp to have the best week of their year.
ABC Snowmobile Clubs present
WINTER
Support Easter Seals Services and Coordinate a Snowarama or Winterfest Event!
Together we can make FRESH TRACKS for
BC’S Children with Disabilities.
In support of:
Easter
Seals
TM
British Columbia/Yukon
bcsf.org/events/snowarama
Supporters:
Hosted by:
» TEN QUESTIONS
richard Christenson
REGION 3 DIRECTOR
1. How long have you been snowmobiling?
I bought my first sled in 1972—a 1971 440 Scorpion for $1,100. Wow, big power in those days!
2. What do you currently ride?
My main riding machine is a 2015 Ski-Doo Summit 800 T3 163 Track. My backup is a 2011 190-hp
turboed Yamaha Nytro.
3. Where is your home club?
Clearwater Sno-Drifters, Clearwater, B.C.
4. How long have you been involved with
your club?
I have been a Clearwater Sno-Drifters member
since 1999.
5. Why did you join the board of the BCSF?
I have belonged to a number of different boards
and joining the BCSF was important to me to address what I felt were issues I could help with.
6. Where is your favourite place to ride?
There are a number of local areas I call my
favourites. We have so much diverse terrain I pretty
well stay at home.
7. If money and time were not an object,
where would you ride?
I am retired so time is not an issue, and I prefer
high-altitude boondocking. We have lots here at
home.
8. What new snowmobile-related items
have you secretly been coveting?
I pretty much buy it if I really have to have it—of
course, only with my wife’s blessings!
9. If you could ride like anybody, who would
it be?
Just about any 20- to 30-year-old—I run out of
steam sooner now!
10. What do you do for fun in the off-season?
My other passion besides sledding is working
with my horses. I really enjoy extended packing
trips deep into the backcountry.
SP RIN G 2015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM / 23
SPECIAL REPORT
BCSF SnoScene
» CLUB NEWS
In memorium
Family time
By Kathy Burke
By Steph Schwartz
We all lost a friend and a long-time club
member this past Christmas—16-year-old
Brandon Ouellette. His family asked that
everyone not buy flowers for his service, but
rather make a donation to the Revelstoke or
Hunters Range snowmobile clubs.
The donations started to arrive in the mail,
and I really wanted to see the monies used
for our youth who are riding. I had an opportunity to travel with ZacsTracs, sponsored by
the Alberta Snowmobile Association, during
the 2011-2012 season and experienced firsthand the program Lori Zacaruk presents to
youth in Alberta schools, Grades 1 through
12, promoting ATV and avalanche safety. I
tried to base our day on this program.
We all met at 9 a.m. on Sunday morning to
have a snowmobile safety talk with Herb
Shaede, who is an instructor. We discussed
tethers, kill switches, the brake, throttle and
appropriate size of our machines. We
learned how to travel safely on the right side
of the trail and how to approach other users
(riders and grooming equipment). We
learned hand signals to use to let other riders
know what we are doing.
We all travelled up together and got a lesson or two on how to cool our overheating
machines.
When we all arrived at the cabin, Revelstoke Snowmobile Club snowmobile patrol
members Gary Van Os and Shayne Simpson
talked to us about planning our day in the
mountains. They discussed what, why and
where to carry safety items in case of emergency, whether in our packs or on our machines. We talked about how to choose our
riding buddies and what to do should we
ever become separated from our groups.
Next up were our friends from Avalanche
Canada—Brent Strand, snowmobile program co-ordinator; Shannon Werner, youth
co-ordinator; and Gilles Valade, executive
director. They shared their knowledge about
avalanche gear, where to carry it and how to
24 / SPR I NG 2 015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM
use it. We discussed where to find info regarding avalanche safety and where to find
daily avalanche bulletins and how to use
them.
Then, to the delight of all of us, Johnny
Hurkot showed up with pizzas for our lunch.
At lunch we handed out bags of info and
safety items for our packs donated by Recreation Sites and Trails, Avalanche Canada,
the BCSF, the ASA, ZacsTracs, Yamaha
Motor Canada and Lordco.
After lunch Corporal Thomas Blakney and
Constable Kaid Sewchuk with the Revelstoke
RCMP detachment talked to us about regulations, drinking and drugs, operating a
motor vehicle, not riding on the road, wearing helmets and insurance requirements.
They also described some accidents they
have attended. Young and old learned about
the mandatory registration for ATVs that becomes law in June 2015. We discussed the
fines, the minimum insurance required, and
how non-compliance will affect our driving
records.
Next, Avalanche Canada taught us how to
use and follow the steps on the companion
rescue cards should we ever be involved in an
avalanche.
Finally, we all headed out for a short ride
while personnel from Avalanche Canada
prepared search scenarios for us. When we
all got back we learned how to use our equipment—how to search, probe and dig.
I want to thank all the individuals and organizations who came up to spend the day
mentoring the youth with us. Thanks Jack
McKay for hauling things up in the groomer
for us too. Thanks to the parents who
brought their children up and to the businesses and organizations that made donations. We all had a great day and there was a
lot of talk about making this a yearly event.
We all went home with more tools for our
tool boxes. Thanks again everyone. All your
help was very much appreciated.
It’s a lifestyle for us. Since my brother and
I were born it was never a question of if we
would ride. It wasn’t expected but we loved
it and still do. We grew up snowmobiling
with our parents. I remember sitting in a
snowbank at the oval races that used to be
held in Revelstoke; Mom worked in the cook
shack slinging burgers and Dad worked the
track with the other volunteers. My brother
Jason was probably supposed to be watching
me, but was off with his friends, likely in the
pits.
Snowmobiling has been a part of our family forever in the areas of lobbying, volunteering and, of course, simply riding. We sled
together because it’s something we all love.
It lets us be together outside enjoying the
beautiful mountains, trails and each other,
as well as meeting like-minded people. The
interactions and friendships we have all had
and made are priceless. My dad and I have
been lucky in that our passion for snowmobiling has turned into our job at times and
we count our blessings. The days when I
know I can get back home and ride with my
posse (family) are the days I long for and get
so pumped up for.
The role model my dad has been to us in
this industry and sport is second to none.
We are very proud of all his hard work. My
mom is the backbone of our sledding family.
She listens to all the crazy stories from every
ride and experiences as much as she can
now. My brother was a huge influence on my
riding style. He never said I couldn’t do it.
Snowmobiling has been a common ground
for my family. It can be too easy to say, “I’m
too busy to get together with family.” We
plan when we can get together and look forward to those days.
We value and cherish our times together
riding and experiencing all that snowmobiling has brought to our lives. We expect to
continue enjoying this family sport for many
years to come.
SPECIAL REPORT
BCSF SnoScene
50th anniversary
By Kirsten Armleder and Donegal Wilson
Long before articulated rear suspension,
carbon fibre overstructure and rider-forward
chassis were even invented, there was a small
group of ice oval racers who decided to start
an organization called the British Columbia
Snow Vehicle Association. Its mandate was
to promote safe snowmobiling, protect the
environment and secure access to public
lands.
As the sport grew so did the association. It
branched out to include a racing division, as
well as an industrial division and a club division. Then on March 4, 1984, it underwent a
name change, becoming the British Columbia Snowmobile Federation (BCSF). Eventually, the racing division folded and the BCSF
became focused on recreational snowmobiling.
Today, the BCSF represents 52 snowmobile clubs and 4,200 individual snowmobilers throughout B.C. There are four executive
members and nine regional
directors, who act as liaisons
between each snowmobile
club and the BCSF. It currently operates out of an office in Keremeos, but over the years, the
office has been located in Houston, Whistler,
Dawson Creek and on Galiano Island.
The BCSF has several initiatives, one of the
most successful being its annual Snowarama
fundraiser, which has raised over $4.4 million for the British Columbia Lions Society
for Children with Disabilities.
The BCSF also has its Snowmobile Excellence Awards program. Held annually, the
program recognizes individuals, snowmobile
clubs, associations and businesses that have
recently made a significant contribution to
the sport. The nominations are sent to a
panel of judges and the winners are then
presented with an award at the BCSF’s annual general meeting in the fall.
As a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization, the BCSF has had its fair share of chal-
lenges. Of course, land closures have been
one of the biggest issues. As concern for nature and wildlife increased throughout B.C.,
snowmobiles have come under constant
scrutiny by environmentalists and other user
groups. At one point in time, snowmobilers
were almost closed out completely, but the
BCSF worked hard to sign a Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU) regarding mountain caribou. From this, MOU Stewardship
Management Agreements were put in place
that allowed snowmobile clubs to manage
snowmobile recreation within caribou habitat.
The BCSF and their member clubs have
also worked closely with Recreation Sites &
Trails BC to develop partnership agreements
for the management of recreational snowmobile trails in the province. This has allowed snowmobile clubs to work with
tourism groups in promoting their sport and
bringing more visitors to
local snowmobile areas—
which in turn, contributes to
the local economy. Golden,
Revelstoke, Sicamous and
Valemount are some of the towns that have
embraced this concept.
Over the years, the BCSF has been a leader
in organized snowmobiling, not only in B.C.
but across Canada as well. It is the oldest
provincial snowmobiling association/federation in Canada. As such, the BCSF was one of
the four organizations that sat at the table to
unify snowmobilers’ voices across Canada by
establishing the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations. The BCSF has had
presidents at the national level and even the
international level as a chair of the International Snowmobile Council. The BCSF also
has two members in the famed Iron Dog
Brigade, which recognizes people who have
contributed significantly to the sport for
more than 15 years. There are only 125 “Iron
Dogs.”
The BCSF has always stayed close to its
original mandate to maintain recreational
snowmobiling opportunities for future generations. And its member clubs continue to
promote the responsible, fun and safe use of
the backcountry.
Another recent source of pride is the possible merger between BCSF and ABCSnow.
Negotiations between these two groups have
been taking place all season and it’s only the
final details that have yet to be confirmed.
Once united, the BCSF will have an even
stronger voice to promote and protect snowmobiling in B.C. Many of the BCSF’s regional directors are in agreement.
“I am impressed with the professionalism
of the board and the executive that has allowed the BCSF to continue and to be able
to move forward into a position of strength
and unity,” said Doug Dean, who is the director for Region 9—Kootenays. “The negotiations that are taking place to unite the
British Columbia snowmobile body into one
organization representing all B.C. snowmobilers is something to be very proud of. I am
proud to be able to work with these fine people.”
Over 90 people came out March 20 to 22
to help the BCSF celebrate its 50th anniversary in 100 Mile House, B.C. The event
kicked off on Friday with a wine and cheese
reception at the 100 Mile Snowmobile Clubhouse. The evening was filled with many
laughs as people were sporting their old
jackets, patches, pins and hats. People from
all corners of the province and of all ages
and all riding interests came together for a
fun evening.
The BCSF’s racing history was proudly apparent. Holding the opening reception at the
clubhouse overlooking one of the original ice
ovals was a fitting start to the celebration.
Saturday included a full day of meetings
and presentations with a few vintage snowmobiles on display. Some former racers attended and one of the original ice oval sleds
was on display by John Wren. The best part
of the event, though, was listening to the stories. With so many photo albums, racing
vests and trophies in the room, it was impossible to capture all of the history that was on
display. The dedication these people felt and
continue to feel for the BCSF was inspiring.
It was a little overwhelming to be amongst
people that have done so much for the sport.
How can you possibly show your appreciation for all the things they have done to
make our sport what it is today?
For the coming year, there were rumours
of a racing reunion and possibly a vintage
show and shine. This is just the beginning of
a whole year of celebration!
SP RIN G 2015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM / 25
SPECIAL REPORT
BCSF SnoScene
BCSF CONTACTS
B.C. SNOWMOBILE FEDERATION
B.C. Snowmobile Federation office
Donegal Wilson
P.O. Box 277, Keremeos, BC V0X 1N0
Ph. 250-499-5117 • Fax 250-499-2103
Toll Free 1-877-537-8716 • [email protected]
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President
Erin Hart, Surrey, BC
[email protected]
Vice-President
Richard Cronier, Dawson Creek, BC
[email protected]
Secretary
Tyler Kraushar, Pemberton, BC
[email protected]
Treasurer
Richard Christenson, Clearwater, BC
[email protected]
REGIONAL DIRECTORS:
Region 1: Northeast
Marlon Spooner, Mackenzie, BC
[email protected]
Region 2: Northwest
Penny Cartwright, Prince George, BC
[email protected]
Region 3: North Cariboo
Vacant - Richard Christenson (interim)
[email protected]
Region 4: Lower Mainland
Pam Cole, Langley, BC
[email protected]
Region 5: Sea to Sky/Vancouver Is.
Rob Hanna, Nanaimo, BC
[email protected]
Region 6: North Okanagan
Craig Moore, Vernon, BC
[email protected]
Region 7: Rockies
Ron LaRoy, Revelstoke, BC
[email protected]
Region 8: South Okanagan
Tracy Senio, Merritt, BC
[email protected]
Region 9: Kootenays
Doug Dean, Fernie, BC
[email protected]
CORPORATE AFFINITY MEMBERS
Affinity members offer reduced rates to club
members and clubs. They rebate a portion of
BCSF member purchases to the BCSF Trails,
Safety and Environment Enhancement Fund.
Amsoil
www.bcsnowmobile.wboil.com
Contact the office for your member
discounts on all Amsoil products.
Bank of Montreal/MasterCard
Dan Bell, 3300 Bloor St. West, 6th Floor,
Center Tower, Toronto, ON M8X 2X3
416-232-8152 • Fax 416-232-8015
www.bmo.com/bcsf
Capri Insurance
204 - 1835 Gordon Rd., Kelowna, BC V1Y 3H5
www.capri.ca/snow • 1-888-818-5821
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Arctic Cat Sales
Curt Shirtliffe
[email protected]
Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
Rod Arnold
[email protected]
Koocanusa Publications Inc.
Keith Powell, Cranbrook, BC
[email protected]
26 / SPR I NG 2 015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM
Polaris Industries Inc.
Cory Davidson • [email protected]
Yamaha Motor Canada Ltd.
Randy Swenson
[email protected]
HONORARY LIFETIME MEMBERS
Gordon Galloway Elkford, BC
Arnold and Pat Wied Valemount, BC
George & Darlene Dance Kamloops, BC
Ralph Sunderman Clearwater, BC
Clayton Prince Kelowna, BC
Gordon Hume Creston, BC
Bob Zimmerman Quesnel, BC
Herb Shaede Revelstoke, BC
Ron LaRoy Revelstoke, BC
Al Horning Kelowna, BC
Nelson Bastien Whistler, BC
Roger Frost Lake Country, BC
Stan Matthews Lone Butte, BC
Larry Blackburn Chetwynd, BC
John Wren Williams Lake, BC
Patti Wren Williams Lake, BC
Rose Prince Kelowna, BC
Tom Dickson Revelstoke, BC
Jack Fisher Crescent Valley, BC
LIFETIME MEMBERS IN MEMORIUM
Toby Cave, Quesnel, BC
Frank Parker, Smithers, BC
Pat Whiteway, Kelowna, BC
Jack Barnett, 100 Mile House, BC
SENIOR COURSE INSTRUCTORS
Field instructors are located throughout the
province. Please call the office for one near you.
Herb Shaede Revelstoke • 250-837-8715
Rob Hanna Nanaimo • 250-756-7669
Craig Beattie Pemberton • 604-932-0888
Doug Ellis Vernon • 250-306-1713
Dave Merritt Prince George • 250-565-8558
MEMBER CLUBS
Region 1: Northeast
Contact: Neil Girard 250-782-5608
Fort Nelson Snowmobile Club
Wayne Wheeler • 250-321-0144
Northland Trailblazers
Peter Bueckert • 250-261-8734
Paradise Valley Snowmobile Association
Richard Cronier • 250-719-7214
Pine Valley Trail Blazers
Sheldon Belcher • 250-788-6089
Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club
Randy Cutler • 250-257-4541
Rocky Mountain Riders
Marlon Spooner • 250-997-4561
Region 2: Northwest
Contact: Vacant 1-877-537-8716
Clearwater Sno-Drifters Snowmobile Club
Rolf Schuchardt • 250-676-9414
Valemount & Area Recreation
Development Association (VARDA)
Curtis Pawliuk • 250-566-4817
Williams Lake Powder Kings
Mark Snowball • 250-398-5328
Region 4: Lower Mainland
Contact: George Scott 604-533-0136
Burke Mountain Snowmobile Association
Marcel Marsolais • 604-521-3116
Chilliwack Snowmobile Club
Brian Romak • 604-866-1200
Summit Seekers Snowmobile Club
Dennis Cole • 604-724-6698
Region 5: Sea to Sky/
Vancouver Island
Contact: Rob Hanna 250-756-7669
Bacon Lake Snowmobile Association
Wade Macadam • 250-286-3535
Black Tusk Snowmobile Club
Tony Cailes • 604-818-8456
Bridge River Valley Snowmobile Association
Brian Stuart • 250-238-2283
Mid-Island Sno-Blazers
Rob Hanna • 250-756-7669
North Island Snowmobile Association
Robin Schopp • 250-923-7179
Pemberton Valley Snowmobile Club
Al Bush • 604-894-6442
Powder Mountain Snowmobile
& Outdoor Recreation Club
Ryan Thorley • 604-902-6066
Sunshine Coast Snow Seekers
Bruce Lanskail • 604-885-5476
Region 6: North Okanagan
Contact: Craig Moore 250-307-6766
Eagle Valley Snowmobile Club
Gord Bushell • 855-836-6600
Lumby/Mabel Lake
Snowmobile Association
Tom Luszcz • 250-547-8781
Monashee Snowmobile Club
Don Main • 250-542-6209
Salmon Arm Snow Blazers
Robin Fleury • 250-838-2668
Vernon Snowmobile Association
Ben Drodge • 250-542-2649
Region 7: Rockies
Contact: Ron LaRoy 250-837-4708
Arrow Lakes Ridge Riders
Mark Aichelle • 250-265-4684
Columbia Snodrifters Society
Roy Smerdley • 250-348-2285
Golden Snowmobile Club
Colin Wallace • 250-520-0711
Revelstoke Snowmobile Club
Daniel Kellie • 250-683-9403
Windermere Valley Snowmobile Society
Barry Lightfoot • 250-342-5148
Region 8: South Okanagan
Cranbrook Snowmobile Club
Doug Hogg • 250-421-1144
Elk Valley Mountaineers
Jason Bursey • 250-425-2599
Fernie Snowmobile Association
Bob Arnott • 250-423-3790
Moyie Lake Snowmobile & ATV Club
Ken Philpot • 250-829-0519
Scaia Scamps Snowmobile Society
Brad Makortoff • 250-365-3102
ARCTIC CAT DEALERS
ALL SEASON’S MOTOR SPORTS LTD.
Cranbrook • 250-426-4009
B & F SALES & SERVICE
Grand Forks • 250-442-3555
BIG TOP POWERSPORTS
Chilliwack • 604-703-0221
CAT SHACK
Chetwynd • 250-788-9558
DIGGERZ POWER SPORTS
Hay River • 867-874-6655
FOSTER COVERED WAGONS
Dawson Creek • 250-782-2722
FULL THROTTLE MOTORSPORTS
Quesnel • 250-991-7933
GHOSTRIDER MOTORSPORTS
Fernie • 250-423-9251
GORDO’S RENT-ALL
Williams Lake • 250-398-7300
HONDA SHOP
High Prairie • 780-523-3904
INTERNATIONAL MOTORSPORTS
Delta • 604-288-1553
LA ROAD & TRAIL
High Level • 780-926-2291
LEADING EDGE MOTORSPORTS
Kamloops • 250-372-8534
LINO’S SALES & SERVICE
Burns Lake • 250-692-7959
LISTERS MOTORSPORTS
Whitehorse • 867-667-7491
MAIN JET MOTORSPORTS
Nelson • 250-352-3191
MAPLE RIDGE MOTORSPORTS
Maple Ridge • 604-465-0441
MILE ZERO MOTORSPORTS
Ladysmith • 250-245-5414
MOUNTAIN MOTORSPORTS
Golden • 250-344-6100
NEID ENTERPRISES LTD.
Terrace • 250-635-3478
NORTHGATE LEISURE PRODUCTS
Grande Prairie • 780-532-8010
PEACE RIVER FORD MERCURY
Peace River • 780-624-3450
PRINCE GEORGE MOTORSPORTS
Prince George • 250-562-4151
RICH’S SAW SALES
Vanderhoof • 250-567-2362
Burns Lake Snowmobile Club
Dennis Firomski • 250-692-4172
Houston Snowmobile Club
Stephen Ringland • 250-845-4032
Kitimat Snowmobile and Hikers Club
Chad Fournier • 778-818-0088
Prince George Snowmobile Club
Penny Cartwright • 250-961-0010
Quesnel Snowmobile Club
Guy Berlinguette • [email protected]
Skeena Valley Snowmobile Association
Adolph Lubke • 250-638-8792
Wells Snowmobile Club
Todd Madill • [email protected]
Christina Lake Snowmobile Society
Dan Marcoux • 250-447-9373
Kelowna Snowmobile Club
Dave Leimert • 250-317-3898
Merritt Snowmobile Club
Frank Douthwright • 250-378-1322
Similkameen Snowmobile Club
Forrest Nelson • 250-499-6522
South Okanagan Snowmobile Club
Sylvain Gagnon • 250-809-2851
Timberline Cruisers Snowmobile Club
Leah Ward • 250-295-4311
Region 3: North Cariboo
Region 9: Kootenays
Contact: Doug Dean 250-425-5044
WAYSIDE SERVICE
Smithers • 250-847-5473
Corbin Country Club
George Neubauer • 403-362-6401
YELLOWKNIFE CHRYSLER
Yellowknife • 867-873-4222
Contact: Richard Christenson 250-676-9443
100 Mile Snowmobile Club
Alan Reichardt • 250-791-6322
Contact: Tracy Senio 250-315-1082
ROUTE 99 MOTORSPORTS LTD.
Pemberton • 604-894-6840
SHUSWAP XTREME
Salmon Arm • 250-832-3883
SOUTH CARIBOO MOTORSPORTS
100 Mile House • 250-395-2366
TRAN-S-PORT ARCTIC CAT
Fort St. John • 250-785-1293
VALLEY MOTORSPORTS KELOWNA
Kelowna • 250-765-3400
VERNON MOTORSPORTS
Vernon • 250-545-5381
SPECIAL REPORT
BCSF SnoScene
BCSF CONTACTS
BOMBARDIER DEALERS
BANNER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS
Kelowna • 250-979-2889
BANNER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS
Vernon • 250-542-0418
COURTENAY MOTORSPORTS
Courtenay • 250-338-1415
EVERGREEN INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES
Smithers • 250-847-4456
FOREST POWER SPORTS LTD.
Prince George • 250-563-1021
GREATER VANCOUVER POWERSPORTS
Chilliwack • 604-795-7800
GREATER VANCOUVER POWERSPORTS
Surrey • 604-888-8700
H20 MOTOR SPORTS
Sicamous • 250-836-2541
KICKSTART MOTORSPORTS
Terrace • 250-635-1623
LADYSMITH MOTORSPORTS
Ladysmith • 250-924-6686
MOTOR TECH ENTERPRISES
Golden • 250-344-2888
NO LIMITS MOTORSPORTS
Squamish • 604-815-4444
NORTHERN METALIC SALES LTD.
Fort Nelson • 250-774-6101
PERFORMANCE ALL TERRAIN
& RENTALS LTD.
100 Mile House • 250-395-2550
PLAYMOR POWER PRODUCTS LTD.
Crescent Valley • 250-359-7111
REICHERT SALES & SERVICE LTD.
Tulameen • 250-295-6489
RTR PERFORMANCE
Kamloops • 250-374-3141
TRAIL BLAZ’N POWER LTD.
Dawson Creek • 250-782-6685
TRAIL BLAZ’N POWER LTD.
Fort St. John • 250-785-6675
VALLEY CHAINSAW & RECREATION LTD.
Pemberton • 604-894-6442
POLARIS DEALERS
BACKUS RACING RECREATION
Mara • 250-838-7611
CARIBOO SUPPLY & MARINE LTD.
100 Mile House • 250-395-3663
CYCLE NORTH
Prince George • 250-964-9091
FIVE STAR MOTORSPORTS
Chilliwack • 604-792-8804
FOUR SEASONS MOTOR SPORTS LTD.
Vernon • 250-549-3730
HI-PERFOMANCE MOTOR SPORTS
Fort St. John • 250-785-8125
HYPER TOYS
Dawson Creek • 250-782-4415
KEN’S MARINE
Terrace • 250-635-2909
M & M PERFORMANCE
Kelowna • 250-491-4800
MAIN JET MOTORSPORTS
Nelson • 250-352-3191
MAKE TRAXX RECREATION
Quesnel • 250-747-8415
RED LINE RECREATION
Fort Nelson • 250-774-3630
SCHULTZ MOTORSPORTS
Kamloops • 250-828-2200
SEA TO SKY MOTORSPORTS INC.
Langley • 604-888-1400
SPECTRA POWER SPORTS
Williams Lake • 250-392-3201
TRAILS NORTH POWERSPORTS LTD.
Smithers • 250-847-2287
WESTERNONE RENTALS
Comox • 250-339-4518
YAMAHA DEALERS
ALPINE MOTOR SPORT
Salmon Arm • 250-804-4334
BARRETT HONDA/YAMAHA
Fruitvale • 250-367-6216
BIG TOP POWERSPORTS
Chilliwack • 604-703-0221
CAPTAIN’S VILLAGE MARINA
Scotch Creek • 250-955-2424
DIAMOND HEAD YAMAHA
Squamish • 604-892-9700
ELDORADO RECREATION LTD.
Quesnel • 250-992-5602
FORCE ONE YAMAHA
Yellowknife • 867-920-2225
G.A. CHECKPOINT
Abbotsford • 604-854-3440
G.A. CHECKPOINT
Port Moody • 604-461-3434
GHOSTRIDER MOTORSPORTS
Fernie • 250-423-9251
KELOWNA YAMAHA
Kelowna • 250-763-1010
KEN’S MARINE
Terrace • 250-635-2909
MOUNTAIN MOTORSPORTS
Golden • 250-344-6100
NICOLA CHAINSAW &
EQUIPMENT RENTALS
Merritt • 250-378-2234
PARKER MARINE (COURTENAY)
Courtenay • 250-334-4808
PEAK PERFORMANCE MOTORSPORTS
Cranbrook • 250-417-3310
PENTICTON YAMAHA & MARINE
Penticton • 250-492-8300
PRINCE GEORGE MOTORSPORTS
Prince George • 250-562-4151
SCHULTZ MOTORSPORTS
Kamloops • 250-828-2200
SOUTH CARIBOO MOTOR SPORTS LTD.
100 Mile House • 250-395-2366
SPECTRA POWER SPORTS
Williams Lake • 250-392-3201
VERNON MOTORSPORTS
Vernon • 250-545-5381
YUKON YAMAHA
Whitehorse • 867-668-2101
RENTALS/GUIDES
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SP RIN G 2015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM / 27
SPECIAL REPORT
BCSF SnoScene
Coast to Coast by Dennis Burns
▼
Winter tourism boosts economy
▼
PMO photo byJason Ransom
merce and businesses to help promote the area as a
The CCSO held a very successful national board
winter tourism destination.
of directors meeting in February in Whitecourt, AlThe Alberta Snowmobile Association (ASA)
berta. Sharing information and their best
hosted a world snowmobile parade where
business practices, the directors set the
organizers had set their sights on achievbudget for the coming year and also electing a new Guinness world record for the
ed Brenda Welsh for another term as the
largest number of snowmobiles riding in a
CCSO secretary/treasurer. Congratulaparade—1,044 snowmobiles! Congratulations, Brenda, and welcome aboard for antions to all. Read more at worldsnowmo
other two-year term.
bileinvasion.com/events/#parade.
Our national meeting was held in conjuncPrime Minister Stephen
tion with the 2015 World
Harper was in Quebec City
Snowmobile Invasion. The
for the 61st edition of CarniWhitecourt Trailblazers had
val—one of Canada’s most
a great opportunity to showbeloved winter festivals. He
case their more than 465
joined the Fédération des
kilometres
of
groomed
clubs de motoneigistes du
snowmobile trails by hostQuébec (FCMQ) for a ride
ing the ambassador from
through some of the proJapan, the Canadian ambasvince’s more than 33,000
sador for Alberta, the YamaPrime Minister Stephen Harper enjoys a ride on
groomed snowmobile trails near Quebec City.
kilometres of groomed snowha CEO and key leadership
mobile trails.
team, representatives from
Snowmobiling is a fun and exciting way to enjoy
their sister city in Japan and many elected officials
Canada’s great outdoors but it also represents over
from all levels. The club worked closely with the
$8 billion to the Canadian economy. And, it’s remunicipal governments, the local chamber of com-
The CCSo would like to thank our
sponsors for the 2014/2015 season.
Please support businesses that support the CCSO—the national
voice of organized snowmobiling!
OPTIMISÉ PAR / OPTIMIZED BY ITURAN
Dennis Burns
Clarity
Conferencing Inc.
28 / SPR I NG 2 015 / RIDERSWESTMAG.COM
sponsible for creating thousands of jobs and attracting
tourists from around the world.
That’s why, over the last
decade, the Government of
Canada has invested in the repair, improvement and maintenance of snowmobile trails
across Canada.
While the country celebrates
“Take A Friend Snowmobiling”
for a day and the “Go Snowmobiling” campaign, the CCSO
congratulates the FCMQ for
seizing the opportunity by hosting the Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper, along with
a few of his key cabinet ministers for a ride on their incredible snowmobile trails around
Quebec City.
In February snowmobile associations across Canada celebrated their commitment to the
conservation of Canada’s natural environment and to preserving organized snowmobile
trails and designated riding
areas. Teams of volunteers
showcased the campaigns that
are making a difference, sharing the message that “snowmobilers care about the environment.” Snowmobilers are keeping nature beautiful for many
generations to enjoy in the following ways: by staying on the
trail whenever possible to reduce the environmental footprint and protect crops and
wetlands; by leaving tracks, not
trash (pack out everything that
was used during your ride); by
spreading the word that snowmobiling and the environment
is a good news story; by embracing new technologies with
today’s clean and advanced
snowmobiles, which run even
more efficiently; by avoiding
riding in areas reserved for endangered species of wildlife; by
maintaining equipment to keep
it quieter; and by respecting
sensitive areas and reading
signs and barriers.