Hockey tournament for BC Children's Hospital back on

Photo: Apex Winter Classic

The 7th annual Winter Classic Under 11 Hockey Tournament is returning to Apex Mountain this weekend to raise money and awareness for BC Children's Hospital.

The outdoor hockey tournament that was launched in 2014 has taken a few years off, but the demand from the hockey community across the province meant a comeback was undeniable.

With over $155,000 raised since its inaugral event, teams had to commit to raising money for sick children in order to qualify for the tournament.

“When you get over 100 players and families to work together for something as meaningful as the BC Children’s hospital foundation, you see the accomplishment of amazing things," said organizer Yannick Lescarbeau.

"From shovelling driveways in storms, to collecting bottles, to selling donuts and racking leaves, our kids really worked hard for this and we are so proud of their accomplishments.”

The last tournament in itself raised over $42,000 for the BC Children's Hospital, and better results are expected this year.

Teams will flock to Penticton's Apex Mountain from Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, and up and down the Okanagan Valley to battle it out for the Hockey Championship.

"Of course we love hockey, but this is bigger than the game itself and teaching kids at this age that others are battling real life-threatening illnesses and needs our help, is the real message here and we think this event is doing a great job at doing this," added Sam Lescarbeau, tournament player and organizer.

The outdoor rink at Apex will be active from 9:00 a.m. January 20 until 2:00 p.m. January 22.

Donations can be made here.