Sports

Lake Fenton Winter Classic Delayed Until February

Organizer Sean Lapham says ice won't be thick enough by Jan. 27.

With ice only about an inch thick, the  has been delayed to the backup dates of Feb. 17-19.

Hockey tournament organizer Sean Lapham said while temperatures are expected to drop in the next several days, the ice will not be thick enough by the time of the originally scheduled tournament days of Jan. 27 - Jan. 29. He said he wants the ice eight or nine inches thick for safety due to the amount of people and equipment that will be out there.

Lapham measured the ice on Lake Fenton Sunday in two places at one inch and a half inch and there was also open water on the lake outside the , where the tournament will be held.

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"The hardest part was when I went out there yesterday and realized it wasn't going to happen," Lapham said. "It was very disappointing. I've been working hard with my blood, sweat and tears and to not be able to make it happen was tough."

Not everyone was disappointed in the delay, however. Fenton resident Mike Davis said he actually prefers the tournament getting bumped back to give teams more time to sign up and more practice time for his team.

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"There's a part of you that wants to hit the ice as soon as possible, but more time should benefit the tournament and our team in every way," Davis said. "Time builds up the hype for this event, which is great for the community."

The tournament is set for seven person teams (ages 18 and up) of 4 on 4 hockey with no goalies, contact or boards. Goals will be six-feet wide and six inches high. Cost is $350 per team, which includes a guaranteed four games. Registration will be open to the first 100 teams in eight divisions. There are spots open. Registration will continue into February. Winners will have their names engraved on a winning trophy, the Des Crowley Memorial Cup, and receive free entry into next year’s tournament.

Lapham plans to make the event family-friendly with open skating rinks, turkey bowling, kids games and prizes. Inside the Fenton Moose Lodge there will be warmth, food and beverages and live entertainment.  

Players will also have an indoor area to put on their equipment and a tent close to the lake to put on their skates. There will also be a pub crawl following the tournament on Saturday.

"Everyone has been really understanding that it's nothing I can control," Lapham said. "At the end of the day we want to have fun, but make sure everyone is safe. At least we get a second chance."


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