While there are no firm numbers on the percentage of Whitecourt residents who snowmobile, the number has “got to be up there,” according to Crystal Siudy, director of promotions and publicity for the Whitecourt Trailblazers Snowmobile Club.
Whitecourt attracts visiting sledders from near and far every winter. With an impressive trail system and its proximity to the Golden Triangle trail, Whitecourt is a sledder’s dream. Although the breathtaking scenery and ample snow are a big part of what makes Whitecourt the snowmobile capital of Alberta, the community of sledders that make Whitecourt their home are the real reason behind the area’s continuing popularity.
In Whitecourt, snowmobiling is more than a sport. It is an integral part of the community, and a great number of residents are involved in the local club. The Suidy family is no exception.
“Seeing all the work the club does, the trails, the split wood at the cabins—I wanted to be a part of it,” said Siudy.
Neighbours helping neighbours
When Siudy and her family moved to Whitecourt 11 years ago, they weren’t really into snowmobiling.
“We used to look out the window and see so many of our neighbours heading out on their sleds,” said Siudy.
Soon those same neighbours were lending the family sleds and taking them out on the trails. The Siudy family was hooked, and not just on the sport, but also on the community spirit that goes along with it.
“We are so proud to be involved with such a great club, such great people” said Siudy. Her husband Richard is the director of facilities for the Trailblazers.
Rebuilding from tragic losses
The club has seen its share of tragedy, yet has come together to heal and rebuild. In 2007 the Trailblazers lost one of its founding members, Dale Gunderson, in an accident while he clearing the trails for the upcoming season.
The Trailblazers banded together and erected the Gundy Cabin in his honour. The shelter, along with two other warm-up cabins, is lovingly and tirelessly maintained by Trailblazers. The cabins have wood-burning stoves inside and fire pits outside. Sledders can always count on there being split wood, matches and weiner-roasting sticks at the ready.
This past May the Summit cabin was destroyed by fire. At the time of this writing, club members are working feverishly to rebuild in time for the sledding season. All the while, volunteers are busy maintaining and repairing in excess of 400 km of trail for everyone’s riding pleasure.
Without a doubt, it is the spirit of community and volunteerism that truly makes Whitecourt the snowmobile capital of Alberta. It truly is an honour well-deserved.
