June Volunteer Shout Outs
Winter may feel a long way off right now. The trails have traded snow for sunshine, the groomers are parked, and most of us are doing our best to survive another Ontario heat wave. But while we're counting down to cooler days, it's the perfect time to recognize the people who make winter happen.
Every ride has a story.
Sometimes it's about a perfect day on the trails. Sometimes it's about a memorable destination, a favorite club event, or time spent with friends and family. But behind every one of those stories is another story that often goes untold - the volunteers who made it possible.
Throughout June, snowmobilers from across Ontario continued submitting Volunteer Shout Outs recognizing the individuals, clubs and teams who quietly give their time, energy and expertise to keep our organization moving forward. From trail work and grooming to administration, fundraising, communications, landowner relations and everything in between, these volunteers are the reason Ontario's snowmobile trail system continues to thrive.
As part of our year-long commitment to Ignite Volunteerism, we're proud to share another collection of well-deserved recognition for the people who make Ontario snowmobiling possible.
- Zach, Temiskaming and Northern Ontario Sno Travellers “Zach is not only a landowner but helps with trail set up, take down, other landowner dealings, keeps a warm up shelter and outhouse at his property and so much more. His support to our club is very appreciated. Thanks Zach!" ~ submitted by Ann M
- Kevin and the Sno Bomber's volunteers “Maintained beautiful trails.” ~ submitted by Andy A
- Al, Rideau Ridge Runners “President, involved in all aspects from grooming to brushing and everything in between.” ~ submitted by Paul H
- Leah, Opeongo Snowbirds “She works tirelessly with her fellow volunteers in the club to keep the trails groomed, not only for the riders, but for the businesses; constantly giving shoutouts and equally sharing with all the local businesses. We love her!!” ~ submitted by Mary P
- Thunder Bay Adventure Trails SC “Groomed and kept the trails perfect in the area.” ~ submitted by Stephen K
- Tim, Spanish River SC “They make the trails awesome and very smooth.” ~ submitted by Cherry B
- Steve, Dufferin Drift Busters “He does everything to get club going and has done so for many years!" ~ submitted by Mike F
- Amanda, Durham District Trail Blazers “Hours of organizing especially with trail reduction then re-open.” ~ submitted by Doug W
- Mattawa “They did an amazing job clearing trails after the devastating summer storm, Can’t believe it was even possible, incredible work!” ~ submitted by Paulene N
- Mark, New Dundee SC “Mark has been President of our club for many years. He chairs our monthly meetings, attends district and OFSC meetings and gives us updates. This year was challenging as a section of our trail was closed and then when funding was available opened. He ensured that Landowners approved the reopening and the trail was staked and marked in 2-3 feet of snow. Loader tractors backed across the snow covered fields so ATV’s with trailers of stakes could get through. He also organized all the information the paper work about our 50 landowners, kms of trails etc. His effort and work for our club is much appreciated.” ~ submitted by Don P
- Steve, Six Star “Grooming the trails!” ~ submitted by Peter R
- Ron, Spanish SC “Great group of organizers of functions, poker runs and trail grooming and warmup shacks.” ~ submitted by Ron S
- Robin, Temiskaming and Northern Ontario Snow Travellers “Robin has served for many years as club Secretary. He is also our tech go to, he performs trail work from brushing to set up and take down, (especially the lake). When he is out riding or grooming he takes incredible photos of our area which we all love to see. Robin prefers no spotlight but deserves to be front and centre for his efforts every year. Thanks Robin!” ~ submitted by Ann M
- Jim, Chuck, Derek & Tyler, Whitewater Sno Goers “Jim, Chuck, Derek, and Tyler are always ready to jump into action, making quick changes to our trails even when the blizzard is coming down. They spend countless weekends putting pickets in, taking them out, adjusting them as needed, and keeping everyone informed. Their dedication keeps our trails safe and up to date no matter the conditions.” ~ submitted by Hillary B
- Seaway Valley Snowmobile Association “They do great work keeping the trails groomed.” ~ submitted by Jeremy
- Port Perry Snowmobile Club “Yes, we finally had snow this year but wow, the groomers were diligent in getting out there. some of my loops from home were groomed to perfection. Thank you , Thank you for trail conditions that enhanced our fantastic winter!!” ~ submitted by Sandra C
- Lake Conestoga “This club is remarkable in how quickly they get their trails open. There grooming process is awesome, and they get the job done, when it needs doing. They quickly address trail concerns and are a pleasure to work with. Their clubhouse is amazing and is open frequently to warm up, and for some good food. Great all around club.” ~ submitted by Pete
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- Todd, BEAST and Snow Road SC “Todd is a volunteer monster! Works for two clubs in two districts and is all in!” ~ submitted by Grant P
- Lindsay, Ojibway Power Toboggan “Everything including running the Raffle sled draw, early season trail prep, staking lake trails, snowmobile and equipment maintenance, routine in season trail maintenance, assists with running poker derby & other club events, post season trail shut down, stake removal. Does everything but groom. OPTA wouldn’t function properly without Lindsay’s dedication.” ~ submitted by Pat D
- Steve, Twin Mountains “Steve helps the club organize operators. Trail maintenance & equipment maintenance. Ever club needs and would appreciate retired members as capable as this guy!” ~ submitted by John S
- All volunteers “The 2025/26 season was incredible. We covered Ontario from Bruce County all the way to Ottawa. North Bay thru Muskoka. Sudbury and north all the way to the Abitibi. The effort of club volunteers made these trips memorable and the level of grooming ensures that they were enjoyable. A big shout out to all that donate their time and efforts to make this happen. The sledders and local business that benefit out of your efforts are immeasurable." ~ submitted by Marcus M
- Patricia, Missing Link “Held warm up shack days in their personal cottage with food and hospitality, it was great meeting Patricia and her husband Greg, very passionate about the people and the sport of snowmobiling.” ~ submitted by Matt O
ONTARIO SNOWMOBILING OVERALL EXPERIENCE SHOUT OUT!
"Our group of 6 did The Loop. Started and finished in Wawa, 7 days/ 1200 miles.
Day 2- stayed at Studio6 in Dubreuville and one sled broke a clutch. Nice folks at Studio6 hauled our buddy and busted sled to the next stop at the Campanion in Hearst, as the other 5 continued by sled.
The Companion allowed us late checkout as clutch parts were arriving later by Purolator . 2 days later, we Arrived late in Cochrane to our rental by DunnRite Outfitters. He let us take his jeep into town to pickup pizza.
In Chapleau, we arrived late and hotel/restaurant owner reopened the kitchen to cook us dinner.
On another Canadian adventure, we were treated fantastically by DunlopLake Lodge. Opened the kitchen to accommodate our late arrival, and Bfast before regular hours.
Carl and his cabins in Searchmont- always treated us like royalty.
Thanks , Carl.
Black Creek Outfitters, a joy to visit.
To all our fellow Canadian riders we met and chatted with at the warm-up cabins, you folks are like friendly neighbors.
To the groomers- AWESOME TRAILS! Thank you!
See you this next season." ~ submitted by Dave G
Clayton, Six Star “Trail repair and trail grooming.” ~ submitted by Rob- Robert & Hailey, Arctic Riders SC “We met Robert at the intersection of A & C trails. We had stopped to get our bearings and check our sleds discovering one with an oil leak & free bolt from the crank case. Robert called his daughter Hailey to help with a tow to the groomer barn in Smooth Rock Falls. Afterwards, they went out of their way to help us get back to Cochrane, making our first sledding trip a great experience. Thankfully this was near the end of our trip. We'll be back!” ~ submitted by Theresa S
- Iron Bridge “The team responsible for the trail between Blind River and Iron Bridge provided me the opportunity to enjoy perhaps the best ride of my life. Great job! Thank you.” ~ submitted by Scott B
The best volunteers rarely ask for recognition. That's exactly why these shout outs matter. A few kind words can go a long way in letting someone know their time and dedication truly make a difference.
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KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES RECOGNITION?
Submit your shout out and be part of what comes next.
