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Guns-N-Hoses hockey match returns to Kitimat for charity

The rivalry between Kitimat’s first responders is set to ignite once again as RCMP officers and firefighters lace up their skates for the annual Guns-N-Hoses charity hockey match on Feb.

The rivalry between Kitimat’s first responders is set to ignite once again as RCMP officers and firefighters lace up their skates for the annual Guns-N-Hoses charity hockey match on Feb. 10, with local sports clubs set to benefit from the heated showdown.

Entry to the game is by donation, with all proceeds from admissions, raffles, and 50-50 draws going to the Kitimat Firefighters Ladder of Hope Charitable Foundation. The foundation will then distribute the funds among three local non-profits, including Kitimat Minor Hockey, to support youth sports in the community. A concession and beer garden will be open to fans throughout the event.

The excitement leading up to the match was on display during a lighthearted preview event on Jan. 29, featuring a faceoff and skating race between team mascots Safety Bear and Sparky. After Sparky claimed victory in the race, RCMP Sgt. Rob Gardner conceded that Safety Bear might have been sluggish due to lingering hibernation fatigue.

“Safety Bear will be in full training mode practicing from now until the game on Feb. 10 to ensure he is ready!” Gardner said.

Since the pandemic, the Guns and Hoses teams have each claimed a single victory, making this year’s contest a tiebreaker. Gardner expects a close match and hopes the RCMP will retain the trophy.

“However, the big winners are always the kids and their local sports clubs,” he said.

The Kitimat Fire Department is also gearing up for the competition, promising to "bring the heat" in this year’s game.

Last year’s event raised $19,141 for KidSport Kitimat, helping make sports more accessible to children facing financial barriers. Organizers hope for another strong turnout this year.

The Guns-N-Hoses hockey match takes place on Feb. 22, 2025, at Tamitik Arena, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and puck drop at 7 p.m. Admission is by donation at the door.



About the Author: Quinn Bender

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