Jerry S., James W. and Jonathan S. rest before setting out on the Klondike Derby "race course"
The 1998 Troop 285 Klondike camp and competition was held at Camp Katie, south of Angel Fire, New Mexico. Many thanks to the Cox family, on whose property Camp Katie is located, for hosting the weekend camp on January 16-18.
Like most of our Klondike camps, this one developed snow camping skills and offered a series of competitions in winter outdoors activities. Each patrol refurbished or built a new "Klondike" design "dog" sled, designed to be pulled by several scouts and steered by one. These sleds then played a prominent role in the competition, as part included a race of sleds, and for other parts, the sleds carried supplies needed for fire building and other events.
Ice fishing for the famous Cox-family trout was enjoyed by about ten Scouts and even a few Scouters (Grannies), after cutting through at least eight inches of ice on a small mountain pond. Two trout were served up as an appetizer before Saturday evening's dinner - very tasty.
Weather at Klondike was very cooperative - although there was 12 to 24 inches of fairly fresh snow on the ground, the days warmed to at least 45 degrees F, and the nights were probably not below 15 degrees. Lots of sun meant lots of sun screen got applied.
Click a thumbnail snapshot for a look at a larger photo.
(Following photo by Jerry Stratton, Sr.)
Jerry S., James W. and Jonathan S. rest before setting out on the Klondike Derby "race course"
Patrick M. and Adam B. waiting for a nibble
Jerry S. Sr and Jr with a nice trout (yes, the Eagle Scout caught it)
Even "grannies" like Mr. Villenueva got lucky
Last Updated: 1998/04/08