In a spirited showdown at Kitimat’s Tamitik Arena on Feb.10, local law enforcement brought out the big guns to dominate Team Hoses with a 7-4 vitoctory in the Annual Guns & Hoses charity hockey showdown.
The lively match, only the second since the pandemic pause, has now levelled the series at 1-1, with firefighters claiming the 2023 win, 4-3.
The event is a collaborative effort between KidSport Kitimat, the Kitimat RCMP, and Kitimat Fire and Rescue. Team Hoses consisted of firefighters from Kitimat and surrounding communities, while Team Guns comprised RCMP, Conservation, and Department of Fisheries officers.
“We also had some civilians that were given special agent status for the evening,” RCMP Sgt. Rob Gardner said.
The game kicked off with heartfelt opening ceremonies, including a moment of silence for lost members of the emergency services family and the national anthem sung by RCMP Constable Jenny Muckle in her striking Red Serge uniform. Adding a dash of whimsy to the proceedings, team mascots Sparky and Safety Bear faced off in a skating race that had the crowd cheering.
READ MORE: Guns n Hoses raises $23,000 for KidsSport
“The youthful legs of Sparky proved to be too much for Safety Bear, who had just woken up from hibernation for this game and seemed to be a bit slower to get going,” Gardner said.
While the final tally from the fundraiser is yet to be announced by KidSport Kitimat, Gardner added the overwhelming community support and enthusiasm were evident.
“The Kitimat RCMP would like to thank the organisers, all the sponsors and businesses for making this such a special event,” he said. “Of course, this event would not have been nearly as successful without the donations from all the spectators that came out to enjoy the game and evenings events.”
KidSport is a Canadian non-profit that provides financial assistance to children under 18 for sports participation, aiming to overcome the barrier of cost. Through local chapters, it raises and distributes funds to ensure no child is left on the sidelines, fostering inclusive, active communities. Last year’s Guns & Hoses match in Kitimat raised about $10,000.