The Chilkat Valley has been a hub of activity with a series of exciting events, including a highly anticipated basketball tournament, an epic through-hike, and the return of the popular River Talk storytelling series.
To kick things off, the 17th annual Mt. Edgecumbe Invitational Basketball Tournament in Sitka drew in 32 teams for 78 games over four days. The atmosphere reached its peak as Haines Sports Shop secured the men’s open division title for the second consecutive year, defeating Anchorage’s Snow City with a score of 85-70. This victory resulted in an impressive $35,000 raised for Mt. Edgecumbe, making it the most successful year for the tournament to date. In addition, Andrew Friske, a key organizer of the tournament, not only celebrated his 45th birthday in style but also showcased remarkable resilience by playing in all three adult divisions and recovering from the physical strain in just a week.
Meanwhile, dedicated hiker Liz Landes shared her incredible journey of hiking the 800-mile Arizona Trail, taking 40 days to traverse the diverse landscape. She recounted her experiences of encountering unique ecosystems and the challenges of the trek, accompanied by a fellow hiker for added safety and support. Landes also expressed her new perspective on changing her attitude, making peace with nature’s minor inconveniences such as leaves getting stuck on her trekking poles.
Furthermore, the River Talk storytelling series made a triumphant return at the Chilkat Center with a successful show that attracted a full house. The theme “Told You So” captivated the audience, signaling a promising season ahead with upcoming sessions dedicated to tales of love.
Lastly, the high school girls’ basketball team’s ambitious expedition to Craig was a testament to resilience and teamwork. Coach Coleman Stanford reflected on their challenging journey, highlighting the dedication of the team and the promising performance of eighth-grade players. The memorable game-winning shot by senior player Raven Hotch added to the team’s triumphant experience, leaving them eagerly anticipating their upcoming games against Metlakatla’s teams.
From sports triumphs to thrilling adventures and captivating storytelling, the Chilkat Valley is undoubtedly a hub of excitement and community spirit. These events not only bring joy and entertainment – they also demonstrate individuals’ unwavering determination to conquer challenges and create unforgettable memories.