Elk Valley Cruisers hosted their biggest event of the summer this past Saturday, with a spirited Wheels in the Valley Rally-Poker Run.
The event, which was Elk Valley Cruisers first celebration as an official organization, was hosted in association with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 36.
Bringing together a fleet of 18 colourful vehicles from throughout the East Kootenay, the event replaced the Fernie Show ‘n’ Shine, taking the annual car show to the road.
According to Oscar Nielsen, the Legion’s service officer, the rally allowed Elk Valley Cruisers to offer vintage vehicle enthusiasts an opportunity to show off their vehicles while remaining socially distant.
“COVID-19 has been making it really hard to have a car show, so this way we keep everything moving while still showing off the cars, the product, and the hobby without having people together,” said Nielsen.
Upon arrival, each team was handed out a sheet with directions, along with 25 questions corresponding to locations along the route.
Blessed with great weather, the two hour long cruise allowed participants to roar their engines throughout Fernie, Sparwood, Hosmer, and half way to Elkford.
Adding to the challenge, cruisers were tasked with stopping over at certain points along the route to pick up playing cards.
Upon completion of the cruise, prizes were offered to the team with the best poker hand, as well as the participant who came from the furthest location, the team with the best costume, and the vehicle in last place. Furthering the fun, prizes were also awarded to the team that came closest to a hidden time, as well as the duo with the most correct answers.
Striving to promote local businesses, stopovers were carried out at a variety of local businesses who sponsored the event, including Snow Valley Spa and Leisure, Sterling Glass and Detail, The Royal Canadian Legion, Giv’er Shirt Works, Kootenay Signs Ltd., the Regional District of East Kootenay, and Fernie Auto Parts Ltd.
Registration for the event ran at $20 per vehicle, with a portion of proceeds going towards purchasing a new tool for Fernie Secondary School’s automotive class. The remainder of funds were donated to the Legion, as well as the Elk Valley Cruisers to go towards their next event.
For more information about the Elk Valley Cruisers and upcoming rallies, visit the Legion’s website.
reporter@thefreepress.ca
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