A new grooming machine is expected to triple the speed the Williams Lake Powder Kings Snowmobile Club can maintain the trails at Yank’s Peak this season.
The club recently purchased a 1995 240 Pisten Bully to replace its old groomer, a 1972 Bombardier Snow Dozer purchased in 2005.
“What used to be 12 hours of really hard work will be eight hours if you’re just going casually,” WLPK director Rick Seibert said.
“It’s pretty exciting for us — a huge step from where we were at.”
Currently roughly six people help groom the trails at Yank’s Peak and all are looking forward to the literal change of pace.
“John Mortenson, Dawn and Kevin Unruh, their commitment to grooming the past eight years is phenomenal,” WLPK president Mark Snowball said. “They did 99 per cent [of it]. Last year Jeff Garten stepped in and he’ll be one of the main guys this year.”
Coming up this Saturday, Oct. 17, the WLPK will be meeting at 8:30 a.m. at the Yank’s Peak parking lot for a work bee and anyone interested in helping out is invited to bring their ride, lunch and power saws.
And, in celebration of the upcoming riding season, the WLPK are hosting a Snow Quest snow show, club sign-up and fundraiser on Sunday, Oct. 25 at the Ramada Convention Centre.
“Come out and support the club, and come see our new groomer,” Snowball said.
Door prizes, bucket draws, dealer displays and the exclusive screening of Braap 15 are among the festivities planned.
There will be a cash bar and snacks after 6 p.m.
Snow Quest runs from noon until 5:30 p.m.