We are thrilled to announce that an OFSC volunteer has won the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO) Brenda Welsh Outstanding Woman in Snowmobiling award! This award is presented to a female volunteer in recognition of their contributions in one or more of the following areas: rider experience, volunteer culture, initiatives and/or partnerships.
Kathy Baker started snowmobiling in 1972 as a seasonal resident to the area and in the ‘80s joined meetings at the local club and started volunteering as time permitted. In 2003 she became the club’s secretary and held that position until 2019, supporting 5 club presidents along the way. Not only was she secretary, but helped with a long list of other club activities such as selling permits, checking and placing signage, blazing new trails, brushing as well as planning and preparing trail lunches for the crew. Kathy also spearheaded a 50/50 draw and helped to decorate parade floats. She somehow also found time to be a trail ambassador and supported the district as well by attending meetings and filling various positions as needed.
Since joining the club, Kathy recruited many volunteers’ wives, making each one feel welcome and encouraging their participation on trails. As a widow, she supported independence and made other women feel valued for their work. A true ambassador and matriarch of the club, Kathy creates a sense of family at the club and has been instrumental in women and men of all ages getting involved with the club, including her own children. She has a true passion for snowmobiling, warms the hearts of all those who know her and makes plenty of new friends along the way.
Outside of the club, this amazing lady also volunteers with many other community groups. This year’s Woman in Snowmobiling winner believes that snowmobiling and nature are in her blood so it seems fitting that she is this year’s winner. She recently celebrated her 85th birthday and still loves to ride and volunteer. Everyone in her area wants to be just like her when they get older.
Congratulations to the Kathy Baker on her much deserved award!
To see the CCSO video, please click here.
