Local youth have been hired to build and enhance trails in the Hope area this summer.
Crew leader Wesley Liebault will oversee crew members Marcus James and Tyler Rideout as they work to improve recreational opportunities for Hope residents and visitors.
The Summer Trail Crew is overseen by Hope Mountain Centre, with funding from Advantage Hope and the Provincial Government’s Rural Dividend Fund.
The Trail Crew’s first assignment began in early June at Coquihalla River Park, where they completed various improvements to the bike park, then cleared the fairways for a new, nine-hole disc golf course. The disc golf course is a component of the original Park Master Plan, and a $5,000 contribution from the District of Hope enabled the project to proceed. Sam Masterton, a volunteer with the Hope Disc Golf Club, is excited by the progress being made.
“Disc golf is one of the fastest growing sports in the world,” Masterton said. “It’s inexpensive, courses require minimal upkeep, and anyone, young or well-seasoned, can enjoy playing. It’s like a walk in the park with a target.”
Club members will be out in force during June, installing the goal baskets and tee-off pads, followed by directional signs later this summer.
Masterton notes that in addition to the district’s financial contribution, the disc golf club has been able to match those funds with the help of local businesses, including the Kingpin Lounge, Hope Rona, Baker’s Books and Diane Lothian.
When finished, the course will be promoted via the Hope Visitor Centre, brochures, and social media.
If you’re interested in the sport of disc golf, drop by Sixth Avenue Sports and check out their selection of specialized discs; they’re smaller and heavier than a conventional frisbee. Masterton intends to set up an affordable disc rental system in future, in partnership with a local business or agency.
Hope’s Summer Trail Crew will be working on numerous projects during June, July, and August. Keep an eye out for their contributions to the trails of Hope, and let Hope Mountain Centre know about local trails that you feel need some attention by emailing kpearce@hopemountain.org or calling 604-869-0166.