The Crystal Cup is back and celebrating its 11th year as one of Western Canada’s biggest pond hockey tournaments.
Adult and old-timer teams from across the Peace Region will compete for the Crystal, Sapphire, and Coal Cups, with the Sid Davis Memorial Youth Tournament set for Sunday.
“We have 32 teams in the general division for adults, and we also have 32 in the youth division. So, it’s a really good turnout and the weather’s awesome,” Crystal Cup President Neil Evans told CJDC-TV.
The event takes place at the Charlie Lake boat launch, just outside Fort St. John. Preparations have been underway this week, with crews setting up lighting, fire pit, game rinks, and beer garden.
The Mobil1 Beer Garden, hosted by Mr. Mike’s, will be brand-new this year, complete with an ice bar. The Fort St. John Rotary Club will also be on hand with free hot chocolate and marshmallows for roasting.
Despite forecasted warmer weather, Evans assures that conditions will be perfect for the event.
“There’s well over two feet of ice, so it’s more than thick enough. The surface might be a little watery here and there, but we’ve had temperatures of seven above, nine above in the past, and five above overcast is actually going to be fairly perfect for skating,” said Evans.
This year’s special celebrity guest is local legend Doug Lambert, known as “Waterman” for his role with the Fort St. John Huskies.
The shinny rinks will make their return, with Evans encouraging first-time hockey players to participate. The “Trailer Town” is also now open, for those looking to spend the weekend. Participants are being reminded to bring a shovel, and spread out as much as possible.
The event kicks off with the first puck drop on Friday, February 21 at 6:00 p.m., running through to February 23rd.