After years of spinning around between municipal councils, the Sooke Horseshoe Pitching Association has finally begun construction of its pitches on Sooke River Road.
The association expects to open six pitches by the end of February and another six later this year.
Association members are now clearing and leveling off the land, situated across from Fred Milne Park.
And though it doesn’t look like much yet, it’s a solid start for the association and its 12 members, said Rick Hobday, president.
Hobday hopes the number of members will rise once the pitches are finished and ready to go.
“It’s a place to do this, and we thank everyone who has supported us so far,” he said.
While the Galloping Goose connecting trail will pass through behind the course, it still leaves sufficient space to accommodate the 12 planned pitches.
The biggest problem so far are amenities such as washrooms, but Hobday said they’ll cross that bridge when they get to it, though for the time being, the Sooke Community Association will provide use of its washrooms.
A clubhouse and an expansion of another eight pitches (bringing it to a total of 20) is also planned, but that won’t happen until the horseshoe association acquires more property from the Agricultural Land Reserve.
As the association grows, it will be able to hold both provincial and national tournaments.
Memberships for juniors are free up to age 18, while membership costs $30 per year. Participants must supply their own horseshoes.
For more information, please contact Rick Hobday at 250-642-7657 or via at trueisrich@gmail.com.