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Singing Contest hits a high note with competitors and audience members

'The music is unbelievable, there's so much talent. But it's more the friendships and the camaraderie Rita-Lynn French competitor
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Rita-Lynn French takes home third place in her category at the Northern Ontario Open Country Singing Contest

"I love it. Even when I don't compete I come back just to watch."

Rita-Lynn French was referring to the Northern Ontario Open Country Singing Contest held at the Billy Barber Complex in Callander, over the Civic Holiday weekend. The Barrie resident finished third in the women's 50 and over class.

"It's such a close group of people. You meet so many friends, and you just look forward to all of that. The music is unbelievable, there's so much talent, but it's more the friendships and the camaraderie. In the audience, people are always cheering for everyone. There's no negativity around here in this competition. It's really fun."

Hosted by the Nipissing Country Music Association, the Open Country Singing Contest has been providing free entertainment for 29 years in the North Bay area.  

"Everybody is friendly. We have an outdoor event which is actually partly an indoor event and everybody gets along really well together. The band is great for the contestants as well, said Nipissing Country Music Association President, Harley Renaud. 

The event is held in a covered outdoor rink. People of all ages bring their lawn chairs to sit and listen to the nearly 50 singers from right across the province, as they belt out tunes competing for cash prizes in a number of categories. Contestants are judged on enunciation, diction, voice range, timing, pitch, feeling and stage presence.   

"On Friday and Saturday, we had inclement weather of course, but we had I'm going to say, at least 600 people each day for sure, and I expect today probably a thousand or better." 

Jean Gudgeon from nearby Chisholm Township has enjoyed listening to the long list of talented singers perform, for over ten years. 

"I'm enjoying it very much because it's very nice. It's well organized and people are friendly which makes the whole day nice."

Cody Pollock and his young family are visiting the area from Strathroy. This is their first time attending the competition. 

"It's absolutely beautiful. The singers are amazing. The venue that you've got here is pretty nice, good food and good times." 

Next year marks an important milestone, and organizers will look for special ways to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the competition.