The Whiteway has officially earned the Guinness World Record for longest ice skating trail.

Confirmation of the title came on May 28th, to the immense satisfaction of members of the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, which created and operates the Whiteway, and other members of the community involved with the record bid.

“This is absolutely outstanding; great for the community and great for the club,” said club vice-president Darren Tamelin. “We’ve been trying for about three years now; it’s always been a goal.”

This year’s extended Whiteway season (the season can vary from just a few weeks to several months depending on the conditions) was a big boon to successfully getting the record application in for 2014, said Mr. Tamelin.

The club is working with the District of Invermere to put up some interpretive signs at Kinsmen Beach, explaining the record and promoting the Whiteway, he said, adding there will likely be a big celebratory party to mark the record once the lake freezes up again.

“This winter we’ll be planning an opening ceremony or grand event to really pump it up, sometime in mid-December or around Christmas time,” said Mr. Tamelin.

See this Friday’s Pioneer for the full story on the Whiteway’s new world record status.