By Emily Stonehouse
With every ending, there comes a new beginning.
That’s the optimistic attitude Dave Bishop, general manager of Eagle Lake’s Sir Sam’s Ski and Ride, is taking into the winter season.
Last week, plans moved ahead with decommissioning two legacy lifts: the Red Rocket , circa 1971, and Eagle View, circa 1982.
“We’ve got years of history coming down today,” said Bishop, as he watched the bulldozer tackle the top of the hill. “It’s a little bittersweet, but we’re looking at the future of Sir Sam’s.”
The removal of the lifts is a part of the organization’s dedication to modernizing the facility. Founded by Bob and Noreen Bishop, the space was created to showcase Haliburton as a winter getaway, while also driving economic growth in the region in 1965.
It’s only grown since then, and has been through numerous owners and variations over the years.
Recently, the organization found its footing in the form of a shareholder group, with a dedicated board of directors. Within that group, a sub-committee focused on modernization has been struck. “They’re an amazing group of people,” said Bishop, who is entering his second season as GM. “We’re working on building the bridge between the past and the future.”
“The new shareholder group and the board of directors are very excited about the future of
Sir Sam’s and are proud of the improvements implemented by Dave Bishop and his team
to date”, said Mike Greenley, chairman of the board of directors, in a recent press release.
“It is encouraging to see improvements to food service, and the modernization of snow making, followed by lift enhancements, now leading to new large projects like chair lift replacement, ensuring a positive and safe ski experience while maintaining hill capacity throughout.”
While the lifts will not be replaced this season, the process is well underway. Bishop is seeking quotes from providers across Canada, and is aware that the cost could hover between 3.5 to four million.
But with the knowledge that they will be down a lift for the coming season, Bishop and his team have put a particular focus on maintaining the existing frameworks. One lift will remain in place, with the top portion of the tunnel being replaced earlier in the season. While the tunnel differs from a traditional chairlift, Bishop noted that it can still move 14,000 skiers an hour, if needed.
While concern has been raised around line times to get to the top of the hill, Bishop noted that he believes it won’t impact the overall experience, as wait times may only increase ever so slightly.
The real challenge is keeping up with the highs and lows of winter weather. It’s no secret that the season has become increasingly unpredictable. But Bishop is ready for all the plot twists Mother Nature may throw their way. With 11 snow guns ready to roll, capable of making 550 gallons of snow per minute, the hill will take a matter of hours to fill. “We have that capacity,” said Bishop. “Once we have a few days of minus 10, when we say go, we go.”
Right now, Bishop is aiming for a mid-December opening, with the intent of maximizing the season right up to spring. They are hopeful for cold conditions, to support their snow making capabilities.
And while this season may look different with the heritage lifts no longer running, Bishop remains optimistic about the next steps. “There’s a little sadness with the changes, for sure,” he said. “But the future is extremely bright. I’m really excited.”
