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Ageless outdoor rink volunteer recognized by North Bay Sports Hall of Fame

'I do it because it gives the young kids a place to play, and to have fun on the ice. It keeps them off the street and out of trouble'
2019 04 19 dalton hazzard
Ageless outdoor rink volunteer Dalton Hazzard. Photo submitted.

Dalton Hazzard may have just turned 93, but age is not stopping him from his passion of looking after outdoor rinks in the North Bay area.   

Because of his dedication,  is the recipient of the Peter Handley Friend of Sport Award for 2018.

The award is presented to someone in the community who enjoys working behind the scenes to enhance sport experiences for youth, without the desire for recognition.

Hazzard is the epitome of this definition.

The 93-year-old has been caring for a couple of local outdoor rinks for more than 38 years.

His involvement began when he noticed Kevin Hunt flooding the Kerr rink on Riverbend Road. He struck up a conversation with Hunt and volunteered to assist. To say that Hazzard is an ice master would be an understatement.

Over the years, he has learned to strategically snow blow and flood the ice surface, judging the best weather to ensure the best ice surface for all youth in the area. Despite frigid winter conditions Hazzard can be seen out on the rink, dedicated to his role.

“I do it because it gives the young kids a place to play, and to have fun on the ice. It keeps them off the street and out of trouble,” said Hazzard in a release.  

Hazzard has now moved to the Massey rink, having turned the Kerr rink over to Steve Vibert. This year has been particularly challenging given the fluctuating temperatures and volume of snow, but that has not deterred Hazzard from maintaining the Massey rink. A bout of flu kept him away from the rink for a brief time in February, but he looked forward to getting back to the ice as soon as possible.

Hazzard says that more volunteers are always welcome.  

“It is not just an ice rink, it is a place where youth can gather to grow together through sport. I am glad I can contribute to their development,” he said.  

Hazzard has been recognized in the past with a Governor General Award and through the North Bay Legion,  but he was flattered when he found out about this North Bay Sports Hall of Fame recognition.

“Oh yes, this award is very meaningful for me. I never expected to be honoured in this way,” he said.

Hazzard is a North Bay native, having worked for the Department of highways for more than 37 years as a heavy equipment engineer.   

He has three sons and two daughters.

Hazzard will be presented with his award at the 39th Annual Induction and Awards Dinner on Saturday, May 4th at the Davedi Club on Airport Road. Tickets are available from the following Executive Members: Karen Cobb (705-493-7578), Mary McTavish (705-497-8111) or Tom Nodwell (705-474-7108).

Chris Dawson

About the Author: Chris Dawson

Chris Dawson has been with BayToday.ca since 2004. He has provided up-to-the-minute sports coverage and has become a key member of the BayToday news team.
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