Our Tatlayoko Valley’s annual softball tournament was held, as always, on the May long weekend May 19-20.
As we drove down to our recreation site at the old Lignum’s mill site on Tatlayoko Lakeshore, just before 9 a.m., the lake was glassy calm, so calm that the NUIT Mountain Range of 9,000 feet altitude bordering the west shore was a mirror-image of itself, the shards of winter snow still decorating its lofty peaks.
Seldom is the lake so calm.
Our little community had worked many weekends to tidy up our recreation site, including the re-building of our first pavilion.
The original pavilion at 12 years of service had been flattened by a heavy snowfall.
But through the determined efforts of a few dedicated people it has been replaced, stronger than before; providing shaded seating at picnic tables on hot days, or shelter during rains.
The several trails of mine-belting provided with thanks by Gibraltar Mine, are very popular with everyone. The children love biking them; trikes, scooters; baby buggies; and strolling are all possible and enjoyable now.
The original intent of having the belting trails was for visitors in wheelchairs to be able to enjoy our lake shore and wilderness setting and they do, too.
We have seven out houses, two of which are also wheelchair accessible.
Our softball round-robin tournament is usually comprised of four or five teams, but this year we hosted seven teams.
Teams were from Bella Coola, Williams Lake, Alexis Creek, Redstone, Nemiah, Tatla Lake, and Tatlayoko.
The teams came prepared with motor homes, camper tucks, trailers and tents. Our large, partly treed acreage took on the form of an instant tent town.
Our facilities include a capable concession booth open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days and serving a hot breakfast on the second morning.
The menu included hamburgers, hot dogs, tacos, taco salads, a variety of hot or cold drinks, chocolate bars, and candy.
Our community association members took turns at serving the crowd. There was plenty of food.
The first day was lovely, a clear blue sky, light breeze, startling scenery.
The second day gradually became overcast with a cooling wind, probably welcomed by the busy ball players giving their all.
The cheering section was in full voice throughout, made up of distant friends and locals enjoying a great visiting opportunity.
Nemiah Valley residents held a silent auction, the proceeds of which will send the Lulua family to this year’s Calgary Stampede.
After everyone had finished their play-offs the winners of the ball tournament were Bella Coola in first place, Alexis Creek in second place, and Redstone in third place.
Cash prizes were awarded for each category.
Our faithful “stand-up” umpire was Len Knight of Tatlayoko.