The parking lot across from Gavans Hotel in Quyon was packed with around 130 vintage snowmobiles on Sunday, in what was a record turnout for the annual sled run put on by the Constance Bay Legion.
It was the 19th edition of the “Old Sled Run,” which begins with a breakfast at the Legion in Constance Bay, Ont. where all riders filled their bellies (and gas tanks) for the ride ahead. Then, all riders crossed the frozen Ottawa River.
Riders could be spotted showing off their vintage sleds, and dipping in and out of Gavans for some food and drink. Organizer Mike O’Reilly said the turnout was a record for the sled run, which he chalked up in part to the beautiful sunny weather as well as the thrill of driving old sleds.
“It’s about nostalgia. It’s about socializing, hanging out in the sun like this, which is beautiful. It’s about the scenery in the Ottawa Valley, because it’s a beautiful ride. That’s why people keep coming back,” he said.
O’Reilly said there were over a dozen prizes up for grabs. Some were more “traditional” awards, such as for the best sled restoration. But he said there are also more unconventional prizes for both the youngest rider (this year, Jamison Stewart from Constance Bay) and the “most seasoned” rider.
“We have two awards for the best vintage suits, because people like the vintage suits. We have an award for the best rat sled, which [means] it still runs but it looks like crap,” O’Reilly said.
82-year-old Harold Burgess from Pakenham was among the oldest riders in attendance, and has been doing the sled run since its inception. He said his favourite parts of the ride are getting to meet other enthusiasts and enjoy a nice ride.
“[It’s about] meeting people, and seeing all the youngsters coming up,” he said as he showed off his own vintage sled.
After the riders got a bite to eat at Gavans, they turned around and crossed the river once again. All riders got a chili meal back at the Legion, twelve awards were handed out, including the oldest machine award (won by Gary Whyte of Lanark for his 1953 Eliason), the best restoration (Dave Blackburn for his 1970 Puma Arctic Cat), and the best Skidoo Citation riders (Olivier and Jack Goulet of Quyon and Beechgrove).
