Vilna hosts first pool hall run

By Brandie Majeau
On June 15, the Vilna Pool Hall came alive with the spirited energy of veterans
and motorcycle enthusiasts as they convened for the inaugural Annual Vilna Pool Hall
Run. This momentous event brought together a passionate group of individuals eager to
embark on a scenic motorcycle ride, savor delicious burgers, and engage in friendly
games of pool (snooker).
The Vilna Pool Hall, known for its unwavering support for veterans and military
members, provided a welcoming and supportive environment for the participants.
Amidst the camaraderie, one of the participants expressed,”It’s a great reason to go for
a ride and get together.”
Located conveniently as a halfway point between Cold Lake and Edmonton, the
Vilna Pool Hall served as the ideal meeting ground for the riders, further solidifying its
position as a beacon of support and appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of
those in the military community.
The event experienced lower rider turnout than initially anticipated, mainly due to
the unpredictable weather forecast. However, organizers remain optimistic about its
potential for growth in the coming years. Aside from the ride, the Vilna Pool Hall Run
also included an engaging and spirited snooker tournament that struck the perfect
balance between friendliness and competitiveness. Rather than the typical trophy, the
tournament winner was honored with a commemorative coin. Interestingly, snooker
trophies are surprisingly hard to come by, and this one came all the way from
England through an eBay.
The gathering was abuzz with the rhythmic clatter of pool balls, the tantalizing
aroma of burgers sizzling on the barbecue, and the joyful blend of laughter and
animated conversations. The atmosphere exuded a sense of warmth and inclusivity.
While some attendees viewed it as an opportunity for a leisurely ride, those who had
served in the military and their supporters cherished the extraordinary sense of
camaraderie and fellowship that flourished among both former and current veterans.

The pool hall served as the perfect backdrop to foster these fundamental values and
bonds of friendship. Jim Sharkey, vice president of the Frezenberg Unit out of Edmonton
and a proud veteran himself, epitomized the spirit of the event as he wholeheartedly
welcomed riders and visitors alike. On a historical side note, the Frezenberg Unit was
bestowed with a Battle Honor as a recognition of their valor and commitment during the
2nd Battle of Ypres. This battle marked a pivotal moment for the Canadian forces as it
represented their first major engagement on the Western Front during World War I.
Each unit proudly wears their patches depicting their Battle Honor

The ritual of attending veteran bike rallies and runs holds great significance for
many. It provides an opportunity to calm the mind, mend a troubled spirit, or simply revel
in the sensation of the open road slipping away beneath them. As bikers travel across
towns, between cities, or even across entire provinces, Vilna Pool Hall has solidified its
position as a pivotal detour and rest stop. It has become a place where veterans and
travelers can pause and recharge as the miles roll by beneath their tires.