Public peek at premier park proves to be positive

Mother Nature cooperated with a sunny day as Saugeen Shores celebrated the kick-off of the public peak at the Lamont Sports Park in Port Elgin on Saturday, June 4th (2022).

               Entrance to Lamont Park ball diamonds

The celebration began with an official march-in lead by the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band.  Dignitaries included Huron-Bruce MP Ben Lobb, outgoing MPP Bill Walker, Saugeen Shores Mayor Luke Charbonneau, fundraising committee members and the public.

In what was once a gravel pit, there is now a world-class sports facility that currently features four ball diamonds with more to come, bleachers for spectators and a pavilion for sun shade and entertainment.

The facility is expected to enable ball tournaments from across Ontario, both adult and minor ball, once completed.  There will also be an accessible playground and many other amenities.

The concept of the park began some 15 years ago but got a boost with the Kraft Heinz Project Play competition that saw Saugeen Shores win the major prize of $250,000.  From there the fundraising committee, under co-Chair Mike Myatt and Rob Stanley, have been busy raising funds toward the $1million goal for phase 2 with many organizations and businesses stepping up to the fundraising plate, including Bruce Power that first came on board with a $250,000 donation.

Throughout the afternoon, the public not only attended but many also donated to the fundraising campaign.  There were activities for the young and young-at-heart that included face-painting, balloon creations by the Shriners Grey Bruce, pitching speed testing, live entertainment, touch a truck by Saugeen Shores Fire and Police Service and free hot dogs provided by Enbridge and served up by the Saugeen Shores Rotary Club.

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It is anticipated that the park will become a hub for the community and the region when it comes to all levels of playing ball.