Photos by Lyndsie Ferrell The 16th annual Golden Pick Pond Hockey tournament is in the books and the weekend was a slapshot success for 31 teams and over 200 players. Players hit the ice over the weekend in Creede and a large crowd of spectators cheered their favorite teams on throughout while warming themselves by bonfires and enjoying good old-fashioned hockey. Courtesy photos Perry's Fairies and Check Republic who won the top spot in levels A and B of the Golden Pick Hockey Tournament in Creede this past weekend.

CREEDE — The snow stayed away just long enough for the 16th annual Golden Pick Pond Hockey Tournament in Creede and though the weather stayed cold, the games were hot, and the entire weekend was a slapshot of success.

The ponds above Creede were once again packed to the brim with players and spectators as the hockey tournament got underway Saturday morning. The ice was in prime condition thanks to the efforts of Brian Brittain and his team who manned the Zamboni machine throughout the weekend.

This year 31 teams came to the ice to vie for the top spot in two levels, which brought about 200 people to the area to enjoy a weekend of good old-fashioned hockey. The ponds were surrounded by spectators either cheering on their favorite games or warming themselves by large bonfires that had been scattered in barrels and one large pit around the ponds.

Warm beverages and delicious treats were offered by some vendors including delectable cupcakes from local businesses. The announcer made sure to call out teams and games while belting out some awesome tunes for all to enjoy. At the end of the day, the lights surrounding the ponds kept the night away as games continued into the early evening.

By Sunday, the brackets had shortened, and the last game was played between the top champions in each level. A group out of Denver called “Perry’s Fairies” and Lake City’s “Check Republic” won the overall weekend.

Tournament organizer Brittian had this to say, “Congrats to the 2023 Champions, Denver’s ‘Perry’s Fairies’ (A Level) and Lake City’s ‘Check Republic’ (B Level). We had 31 awesome teams and about 200 players from all across the country, many of which have been coming since the beginning! DJ MelLea, Cupcakes, Bonfires (thanks Matt Sliwkowski for keeping us stocked up), Windsor food, and loads of fun!

“Thanks to our MVP Volunteer, Ken with Fisher Technologies! Also, the Mineral County Fire Department, MDS Waste and Recycle, Karl Kolisch, and Dan Mead for the awesome Christmas tree bonfire, and EVERYONE ELSE who worked made it happen!”