Oklahomans Rush For Sleds Before Snow Melts

The snowy weather made a hot item out of something that was hard to find. Hundreds of parents spent the day looking for snow sleds - and only a few of them were at the right place at the right time.

Saturday, January 29th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The snowy weather made a hot item out of something that was hard to find. Hundreds of parents spent the day looking for snow sleds - and only a few of them were at the right place at the right time.

Cars jammed the parking lot and people filled the aisles - it's unusual at a hardware store, but it happened after word got out that a shipment of sleds was on its way to two True Value stores in Tulsa.

"My son in law is at the other store, whoever gets theirs first calls the other and we meet at the house and go sledding," says Sled Buyer Dennis Lack.

Most every other place was sold out, so parents were willing to wait.

"Kids, you'd do anything for them," says Sled buyer Anthony Davis.

The trailer from Kansas City arrived with more than 100 people waiting at the store - and more on the way. Three hundred sleds moved across the counter and back out the door within minutes.

"This is probably the biggest thing I've seen hit the store here," says Mark Maurer, True Value Hardware.

Everyone hoped to get a sled and get on the slopes while there was still some snow left. The sleds were quickly put to use by children eager to make the most of a snow day.

"The rush, just sliding all over and crashing," says Jordan Bates.

Friday's shipment was the last one of the week - the last chance to take a ride, before the snow melts - and classes resume.