The Annual Nimpo Lake Poker Run went March 10 at 10 a.m. in front of the Public Boat Launch (beside the Ice Road), featuring loads of participants.
Richard and Leah Simon organized another great Sledding Poker Run this year. The initial count was 24 sleds at the start.
Waiting at Hooch and Charlotte Main were five entrants from Anahim Lake.
We drew cards for our poker hands at that location and headed down the trail to the Charlotte Alplands.
Several volunteers ride throughout the group to help get people unstuck and handle any problems that may come up. I normally ride at the rear and try to keep track of stragglers. We check that no one gets left behind.
The group started off with Myles Pare being towed on his snowboard, but an ice divot caused a wipeout and blown bindings within the first few miles, forcing him to become a passenger.
We made a few stops and picked more poker cards as we rode the trails. Several riders got stuck, as that is part of the fun of snowmobiling. We had fresh powder for this ride.
Climbing into the mountains the sun came out. It was the perfect setting for the hot dogs, smokies and Pringles donated for snacks around the bonfire.
Our “prep group” (Logan, Bill, Kevin and I) had stacked the firewood in a protected area of the trees where the view of the mountain slope was spectacular. As always the view is best when there are expert riders (Darwin, Mark, Dustin and a few others) stunting, climbing and jumping in it. The kids had a blast sliding down the mountain slope towards the bonfire as well.
After a couple hours of fun, it was time to head back. The ride was nearly 40 kilometres each way.
Richard used a different trail coming down, and everyone enjoyed the ride back. Bonnie Berwin felt a little adventurous and following old tracks (under the powder) she was surprised when the snow opened up into a creek right in front of her.
Having ridden before she reacted correctly by squeezing the throttle and trying to jump the creek. Unfortunately the little “indy lite” wasn’t powerful enough and didn’t make the jump. Squeezing the throttle Bonnie did manage to keep the nose up, but stuck into the bank and got stuck.
I rode up, saw her laughing and brought out my rope. With the help available it was a minor delay to pull the sled back onto the trail and continue.
We stopped in several meadows and drew cards for our poker hands, which allowed people to have fun and “goof around.”
Katana and Richard were found in tree wells, with Clint following, so several people got to work helping get them unstuck. This was a great family event that was fun for everyone.