When there are a lot of small towns in the same area, you tend to have a lot of friendly competition; usually among sports teams.
The Coronation area was really big on winter sports, hockey and curling, etc. They had leagues of teams and would compete for wonderful trophies and the honour of being the “Champions”.
In 1966 the mayors of the day proved that they could be just as competitive.

March 10, 1966
“Mayor Bell To Represent Coronation
“Yes, Mayor Walter Bell has accepted the challenge of Castor’s Mayor Bain and Alliance’s Lisney to a skiing contest at the annual Valley Ski Club, Highway 36 Battle River, this coming Sunday at two o’clock.
“After a short talk with Coronation’s hopeful we are confident that he will be outstanding in the salon on skis and in the downhill fanny.”

March 17, 1966
“Walt Bell Wins Regional Mayors’ Special Merit Certificate
“Sunday afternoon the Valley Ski Club held the official opening of their new lodge at the Battle River hill on Highway 36. The day was moderately mild and the occasion drew a large crowd and proved most successful.
“Coronation was represented, among others, by Walt Bell, who entered the skiing contest with regional mayors of Alliance, Castor and Coronation.
“The way this reporter heard the story: These tenderfeet were escorted half way down the hill where they took off! Mike tripped, Ed had trouble getting his snowshoes lined up and Walt was afraid to look back.
“Result: Walter brought home the Mayors’ Ski certificate of special merit, for free lessons for the 1966-67 season; a scroll and a tray as a prize.”

Well, they do say that the way to get ahead in life is to not look back and Walt just gave a good example of that.
I wonder if he used the free lessons.

Back to Back In Time page