KANGIQLINIQ/RANKIN INLET
Reviving a snowmobile race for little would-be champions proved to be a big hit during Pakallak Tyme celebrations in Rankin Inlet earlier this month.
Sandy Tattuinee tears across the obstacle course during the children's 120 snowmobile race in Rankin Inlet earlier this month. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo
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Recreation co-ordinator David Clark decided it was time to bring back the little racers when he noticed a lot more of the smaller machines in town.
The 120 snowmobile race was limited to children 10 years of age or younger, and attracted 10 racers and a large crowd to Williamson Lake.
Clark said the racers were allowed three runs at an obstacle course, with their best time counting for the race.
He said the strong turnout for the race was indicative of the success of this year's event.
"I've been doing Pakallak Tyme for about eight years and this one was the best by far," said Clark.
"We had great attendance at the events, great volunteer support and a large number of people involved with all the activities.
"It went really, really well."
Clark said the afternoon events of May 3, when the vast majority of the hamlet is closed to business and everyone given the afternoon off to attend Pakallak Tyme, was hugely successful.
He said the activities were held at Itivia this year and there was no shortage of participants.
"There were about 400 people down at Itivia for the Friday afternoon events.
"We always have square-dance competitions in the evenings during Pakallak Tyme, and they're always well-attended.
"The games we put on for the kids were also a big hit this year.
"There honestly wasn't one event that didn't work out for us."
Clark said he was happy to see the whole week jam-packed with people at every event.
He said the hamlet also held a pond hockey tournament during this year's celebrations, which was well-received by the young players in the community.
"We divided the players into two different groups, with the older kids in one group and the younger kids in the other, and it went well.
"Our outdoor rink on Williamson Lake is very popular with the community, and the kids really enjoyed playing the tournament there.
"All in all, Pakallak Tyme was a really good event for everyone this year."
