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Cadets skate at Arrowhead Provincial Park for Winterpalooza. (Photo: Cadet correspondent Sergeant Faith Hicks)

Muskoka cadets participate in Winterpalooza

By Cadet correspondent Sergeant Faith Hicks, at 3133 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps in Burk’s Falls

The Cadet Program isn’t solely focused on discipline, leadership, and life skills, but also makes time for physical fitness and fun as well, even reserving whole weekends for it. 

On February 8-9, 2025, nine cadet corps and squadrons from Bracebridge, Huntsville, Parry Sound, Burk’s Falls, and Sudbury came together in Muskoka to participate in the Area Directed Activity called Winterpalooza.  

On Saturday, cadets ranging in age from 12 to 18 enjoyed winter activities, including skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in Arrowhead Provincial Park. Senior cadets also had the opportunity to ski and snowboard at Hidden Valley Ski Resort. For some, like seventeen-year-old Chief Warrant Officer Jake Gullage of 3133 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps in Burk’s Falls, it was a completely new experience. 

“I really enjoyed snowboarding for the first time, although I was a little nervous at first,” said Gullage. “The instructors did an amazing job getting me going, and I think this experience has inspired me to keep up with snowboarding.” 

Another highlight of the weekend was time at the local pool on Saturday evening. Over 80 cadets reveled in several hours of swimming and water games, while others chose to participate in curling or baking, games, and social time at the Huntsville Legion, which served as a home base for the event.  

On Sunday, the festivities continued carnival-style at the Sprucedale Community Centre. Cadets made maple taffy, played capture the flag, and rode in a horse-drawn wagon, among other activities. Overall, all who participated had a wonderful time.  

Are you looking for new, free, and fun adventures? The Cadet Program is open to all youth between the ages of 12 and 18. It develops confident, self-sufficient leaders who form lasting friendships and are engaged in their communities while promoting physical fitness and healthy living and fostering an interest in the activities of the Canadian Armed Forces. If you are ready for the challenge, visit www.canada.ca/join-cadets

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