The Kamloops Snowmobile Association wins Canada’s most desired snowmobiling distinction

“Winning this award will make Kamloops known all across the country as a great snowmobiling destination.” — Clemence Samson

by Kyle Born

Three snowmobilers ride a tight trail through snow-covered trees.
The Kamloops Snowmobile Association is proud to be named the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations’ 2021 Canadian Snowmobile Club of the Year. Photo courtesy Clemence Samson

If there was ever any doubt which snowmobile club was the greatest in all of Canada, the argument has been put to rest—at least for another year. The Kamloops Snowmobile Association (KSA) has just been awarded the most prestigious snowmobiling title in the nation: Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) 2021 Excellence Award for Canadian Snowmobile Club of the Year.

“We were very happily surprised and honored to win this award,” said Clemence Samson, secretary/treasurer of the KSA. “We had no idea that we were nominated. When they heard the news, our club members and people in the community were all commenting that it was well-deserved for all the hard work. They were very happy that the club was recognized this way. It will have a positive impact on our community.

“Winning this award confirms that we are on the right track. We also realize that winning this award will make Kamloops known all across the country as a great snowmobiling destination.”

Snow-covered trees jut from the earth like upside-down icicles along a wide, frozen snowmobile path.
Kamloops is a sought-after destination because of its ideal geographic location, being central to a variety of different riding areas. Kamloops also has excellent snow conditions, easy access to trails and beautiful weather. Photo courtesy Clemence Samson

This distinction comes on the heels of the club winning three British Columbia Snowmobile Federation (BCSF) 2020 Excellence Awards just last year for Club of the Year, Groomer of the Year, and Snowmobile-Related Business of the Year.

“It is quite nice to be recognized by our peers,” Samson said. “It also motivates us to continue to innovate and find different ways to keep growing as a club.”

Yes, the Kamloops Snowmobile Association’s trophy case is filling up in a rapid timeframe. But these accolades didn’t come overnight. With a club history that stretches for 50 years, the KSA has been building towards this kind of success with proactivity and a dedication to sledding that spans decades.

“The passion of riding in Kamloops has been passed on from one generation to the next,” said Samson. “We see grandparents, their children and their grandchildren riding together.”

Two children ride a green snowmobile.
“The passion of riding in Kamloops has been passed on from one generation to the next. We see grandparents, their children and their grandchildren riding together.” — Clemence Samson Photo courtesy Clemence Samson

Over the years, executives and directors have been successful in finding ways to better the financial state of the club by campaigning to increase memberships, hosting an annual raffle, attaining a community gaming grant, and gathering ORV trail funds and trail fees. The KSA operates strictly on a volunteer basis, and the club’s dedicated volunteer base is exceptional.

“We are fortunate to work with a team of different backgrounds, expertise and experience,” Samson said. “As an example, last October, our Gloria Shelter got burned down to the ground—unfortunately a victim of arson. With the support of our volunteers, businesses and community members, it was rebuilt and operational within a four-week period, just in time for the season. We have been working very hard to maintain and improve our trails and buildings to offer the best experience to our riders. All our efforts must have gotten noticed. We are proud of all our accomplishments and plan to operate for many more years to come.”

Ready to go sledding in Canada’s newly crowned playground of the CCSO Excellence Award for Canadian Snowmobile Club of the Year and recent three-time BCSF Excellence Award-winning destination?

Take a look at the Kamloops Snowmobile Association Club Profile to find out more.

Related Articles

Four women visit and laugh while taking a break on their snowmobiles.
Club News Volunteers wanted: How successful snowmobile clubs recruit volunteers (and keep them happy, too)

ATV directors and presidents outline how to entice riders in your community to become active participants in your club

by Kyle Born
Mason Kenyon sits on his black and blue snowmobile in the mountains.
Club News, BC Snowmobile Federation District of Sicamous supports BCSF resolutions to the Union of BC Municipalities

The BCSF Resolution is to establish an objective in FRPA that ensures all recreation groups are included in land planning processes going forward

by Donegal Wilson, executive director of the BC Snowmobile Federation
Snowmobilers ride down a snowy trail.
Club News Update on the CCSO Snowmobile Excellence Awards

Along with the cancellation of the ISC, the CCSO Snowmobile Excellence Awards were also called off

by Kyle Born
>
View all Club News articles