The snow just won’t quit in La Ronge – another 3 inches last night. But it’s also not cold, so we do have some slush on the lakes. The southern portion of the trail is not so well endowed, although the boys report that what’s there is getting well packed by snowmobile traffic.
The board has made the decision to start the race north of Prince Albert at the Buckland Arena, since there is still open water on the Saskatchewan River. Berm construction to facilitate bridge repairs this winter has changed the water flow in the river, and we don’t want any mishaps trying to cross! The Buckland people will have concessions going at the start line, and there’s lots of parking in the adjacent school yard.
We will be back to following the highway ditch to Christopher Lake too, to facilitate the audience and avoid confusion in the fields!
The board is still chasing funds – so far only about 37% of our minimum target in the bank (and only 25% of last year’s expenses). We would like to go better than target in order to cover expenses and pay a reasonable purse. We are looking at ways to save money – we are not paying staff this year, which means the office is not as functional; we will pay for fewer hotel rooms, and try to get gas covered by an in-kind sponsorship. The board members also contribute their expenses over the months, often up to $1,000 per person, which should not have to happen but it’s reality.
We are discussing ways to reduce the cost of the banquet, and are looking into a less formal scenario.
We have approached many sponsors who have not yet replied, and we’re hoping they will soon, in a positive way.
Raffle ticket sales are slower than expected – if anyone can sell some for us, please call! (Must be sold in Saskatchewan). Bernie has some in PA (763-1539) and Gill has some in La Ronge (425-3826).
We will be using the McLennan River campground as the midway checkpoint, rather than Weyakwin. This evens out the distances between Elk Ridge and LT’s. Sheldon Roberts of PA has kindly offered to clean out the camping loops with his bobcat. Thanks Sheldon!!
As the saying goes, we keep calm and carry on! We hope to have good news by our next board meeting Feb. 1.
Looking forward to seeing you all next month!

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