The number of teams that participated in the annual Shaggin On Sno fundraising tournament was down slightly from last year, but the money raised was on par with previous years, according to organizer Mary Smith.
Thirteen teams participated in the March 16 event, which involves playing slow pitch on snow at O.R. Hedges Park.
In previous years, anywhere between 14 and 16 teams have participated. Money raised goes to the Special Olympics.
This year's edition raised $4,350, on par with previous years when the event has raised between $3,000 and $5,000.
"With only 13 teams, raising that amount is a testament to the players that support this event," Smith said.
Including this year's money, the total amount raised for Special Olympics Olds & District through Shaggin on Sno is $74,520.
Players came from as far as Red Deer and Calgary. Spectators came from as far as Edmonton.
Smith figures the lengthy cold snap cut into the number of teams that entered this year.
"In the three days prior to the tournament, four teams wanted to sign up, but the schedule was already completed and the teams had already made plans for the scheduled times," Smith says. "Next year those teams said they would love to participate."
Smith said warm weather on the day of the tournament seemed to spur people to open their pocketbooks.
"The warmer weather also likely encouraged people to spend more on raffle tickets," she said.
More than 70 raffle prizes were up for grabs, including a high calibre bat from Digger Sports valued at $330.
Special Olympics Olds & District chair Karen Mengersen won the 50/50, which had a take-home value of $105. She donated it back to Special Olympics.
Team GTR (Got the Runs) from Innisfail won the tournament.
Several Olds College athletes also participated in the tournament and helped out as needed throughout the event.
Smith was pleased with the community support for the tournament, which she described as "amazing."
"I feel so blessed to be able to organize a snow pitch tournament to support such a worthwhile cause," Smith said. "The Special Olympic athletes are a true inspiration."
