Scouting America Troop 20 members push their sled toward the next challenge during the 2025 Kootaga District Klondike Derby on Saturday at Camp Kootaga. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

PARKERSBURG — Scouts from across the district gathered at Camp Kootaga Saturday for the 2025 Kootaga District Klondike Derby.

With months of preparation behind them, the Scouts faced challenging conditions and exciting competitions.

This year’s theme, “The Return of the Mountain Monster,” saw Scouts tackling a series of challenges while unraveling the mystery of the legendary shadowy figure that first appeared two years ago.

“The theme added an extra layer of excitement to our competition,” said Alan Campbell, the event coordinator and scoutmaster for Scouting America Troop 20. “The Scouts engaged in various challenges that tested their skills in fire-building, knots, lashing, memory games and, for the first time ever, rifle and shotgun — a fun and unique addition to the event.”

The Klondike Derby, a tradition dating back to the 1920s, has become a cornerstone event for local troops. Scouts demonstrated their ability to thrive in winter conditions, testing their skills in navigation, survival and teamwork.

Members of Scouting America Troop 175 participate in Kim’s Game where they are tasked with memorizing all of the supplies on a table and writing the information down during the 2025 Klondike Derby on Saturday at Camp Kootaga. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

Despite some last-minute cancellations, approximately 30 Scouts participated, representing troops from Middlebourne, Sistersville and Vienna.

Among the participants was 17-year-old Delbert Everton, a Middlebourne resident who has been involved in scouting for 11 years.

“My entire family has been in scouting. My first campout was with my brother when I was just 6 months old,” said Everton. “I’ve been working towards my Eagle Scout rank, and my project was a donation drive for Foster Prep Ohio Valley. We raised around $500 and collected essential items like wool blankets and hygiene products.”

Everton said his first Klondike Derby at Camp Kootaga “has been a blast so far.

“We started out making a carrier to transport the beast, practiced knots by the waterfront, which didn’t go so well, and then moved to the shooting range.” he said. “I do competition shooting, so I was really impressed with my performance and proud of my fellow Scouts. It’s great to see everyone working together and having fun.”

Members of Scouting America Troop 20 attempt to build a shelter during the Kootaga District Klondike Derby on Saturday at Camp Kootaga. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

Participants were grouped into sled teams, carrying essential supplies to complete each challenge. Teams were judged on their preparedness and execution of various scouting skills.

Gwen Sour can be reached at gsour@newsandsentinel.com.