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Biography of Murray Allan Sutherland
Murray was a third generation County of Grande Prairie resident. Most of Murray’s life was spent on the family farm South East of Clairmont. As the eldest of eight children he often assumed responsibility for his mother and siblings. He relished life and found fun in everything he did. From the first snowfall we waited with anticipation for the dugout to freeze enough for all of us to go skating. Being the eldest Murray was the “official tester”. Murray, pulling the toboggan through the pasture, loaded with supplies,shoveling the surface, freezing his fingers and toes, and the crispness of the clean air,creates fond memories of my childhood winters.
As a teenager Murray’s sense of adventure expanded his horizions, as he set of on an epic canoe trip from Grande Prairie to New Orleans, with his closest friend.
Performing and athletics led him to experience many things in high school, from winning Drama awards to being the one to score whether in a pair of cleats, skates or broom ball shoes.
Murray’s belief that barriers were made to be broken led him to lay corner stones creating the Clairmont Arena. This cemeneted a bond with Clairmont that grew and held steadfast until his passing. He was instrumental in the success of the Sutherland Inn. now {Clairmont Inn}. His love of people and entertainment made Clairmont the hub of the Peace. Although polo was Murray’s passion, hockey and broomball were his foundation.
If the walls of the Clairmont Arena could talk, the stories we would hear. When Mur saw or felt a need he was there wholeheartedly. It is my understanding that in the late 80’s a need was realized for an ice arena in Clairmont. Two local hockey teams, the Tundra Torroes{ Murray’s team} and the Clairmont Outlaws{ his brothers team}, were instrumental in securing a used building from the 1988 Calgary Olympics.
The County of Grande Prairie purchased the building and a dream was in the making.
In 1989 construction began. Both teams and many volunteers provided labor and resources to establish the Clairmont Arena.
Those who knew Mur know this cause was close to his heart. He believed greatly that it takes a community to raise a child, and sports is a very important part of a community.
I wish to welcome all Pond Hockey Players to the 1st Annual Murray Sutherland
Pond Hockey Tournament. I know you will all leave Clarimont amazed at the heart of this little community. Sharing stories and memories on the surface of Clairmont Lake will make this a memeorable, and successful event in every way.
I sincerely hope you can see the need and join us for some fun and fond memories.
I look forward to meeting everyone.
Bunny Sutherland { Murray’s sister}
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