Scouts from across central, western Maine enjoy Klondike Derby

PHOTO: Troop 401 Scouts show how the sled is pulled. Part of the challenge was to build the sled so it can withstand the event while trying to keep it light. Scouts were also told some items that were required to be on the sled for safety and could put other items they thought they would need. Some Scouts, who had packed too much, were dog-tired by the end of the Klondike Derby. (Submitted photo)

BELGRADE — Camp Bomazeen, on Great Pond, was the site of several inches of new snow, temperatures hovering between 0 and 10 degrees, and a camp full of eager Scouts hunting for gold during the annual Klondike Derby Feb. 25.

Scouts and Cubs from across Franklin, Somerset, Kennebec and Lincoln counties re-enacted the historic Klondike gold rush on sleds filled with gear and supplies and they were their own sled dog team. They competed as a team at different stations and earn “gold” nuggets by demonstrating teamwork, Scout spirit, and mastery of the skills that are needed to stay alive in the woods in winter.
“Our Scouts have been learning at troop meetings not only how to dress and pack for winter camping, but also how to survive in the wilderness,” said Klondike Derby Chair Julie McKenney. “At the Klondike Derby, they put all that training to work at stations such as orienteering, shelter building, fire starting, first aid, fishing, and rescue.”
There were also Scout favorites including rifle shooting, tomahawk throwing and obstacle course. Cub Scouts had fun with stations for their younger age group including sling shots, big foot walk, and the cardboard sled race. One Cub pack raced a cardboard box made to look like a dragon.
Skowhegan Troop 485 was one of three troops that earned 158 gold nuggets by the end of the day. Sam Basselett lives in Chelsea but is a member of Manchester Troop 622 and enjoyed the shooting sports range.
“It was a good day,” said Sidney Troop 401 Scoutmaster Eric Handley. “Lots of smiles and lots of sun.”