Nordiq Canada News Archives - Nordiq Canada https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-category/nordiq-canada-news/ Fri, 16 May 2025 16:47:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://nordiqcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/cropped-site-icon-2-32x32.png Nordiq Canada News Archives - Nordiq Canada https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-category/nordiq-canada-news/ 32 32 Nordiq Canada Announces Leadership Changes to Support 2026 Goals https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/nordiq-canada-announces-leadership-changes-to-support-2026-goals/ Fri, 16 May 2025 16:21:55 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=21184 With a deeply rooted background in sport leadership, Shawn Bullock will guide Nordiq Canada’s athletes and coaches toward the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games as the organization’s newly appointed interim high-performance director.

Bullock has served as a leading high-performance consultant to several winter and summer national sport organizations across the country. Most recently, he played a key role in rebuilding Rugby Canada into a medal-winning high-performance team ahead of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. No stranger to winter sport, Bullock also consulted with Biathlon Canada’s high-performance program following a long and distinguished career with Hockey Canada, where he spent 10 years as manager of operations and national teams.

“Shawn is a proven, decisive and pragmatic leader who knows what it takes to develop excellence and drive results,” said Beckie Scott, Nordiq Canada’s CEO. “He brings immense value to this role within our program, and I am confident he will transfer the knowledge and best practices gained while working with other national sport organizations to help Nordiq Canada build a healthy culture of excellence driven by our values.

“I am very excited to start working with the high-performance team at Nordiq Canada to deliver the resources and support athletes and coaches need to achieve our goals,” said Bullock. “There will be two key priorities for me in this role: treating people with care and operating with clear deliverables and expectations.”

In addition to the announcement of Shawn Bullock as interim high-performance director, Nordiq Canada has made key staffing changes to support its goals for the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Chris Jeffries (High Performance Director), Julie Beaulieu (Sport Development Director), and Megan Begley (Chief Operations Officer) have concluded their roles. We thank them for their dedication and contributions to Canadian cross-country skiing.

Bullock will serve as interim high-performance director through the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, overseeing all technical aspects of Canada’s cross-country skiing national programs. He will work closely with coaches and support staff to develop and deliver a world-class program to Canadian athletes.

Nordiq Canada will implement a comprehensive succession plan to permanently fill the high-performance director role in spring 2026.

Nordiq Canada is the governing body for Para nordic and cross-country skiing in Canada. We remain committed to providing athletes, coaches and our community with the leadership and support needed to achieve success on the world stage.

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Job Opportunity – Director, Finance and Administration https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/job-opportunity-director-finance-and-administration/ Wed, 07 May 2025 19:38:29 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=21108 Director, Finance and Administration

Job: Director of Finance and Administration

Type: Full-time permanent

APPLICATION FORM (click to view)

 

Who We Are

A non-profit organization, Nordiq Canada is recognized by the Government of Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) as the governing body of cross-country and Para nordic skiing in Canada.

As the national sport organization for cross-country and Para nordic skiing, Nordiq Canada partners with divisions, clubs and others to provide the leadership, support and resources needed for all Canadians to find their own greatness in our sport, whether they aspire to ski for their country or for fun and fitness.

 

Job Description and Scope

Reporting to the CEO, the Director, Finance & Administration plays a critical leadership role in the organization overseeing all financial operations for the organization. They will also lead and implement all risk mitigation strategies and ensure rigorous legal and regulatory compliance as it relates to accounting and reporting functions.

The Director of Finance and Administration is expected to play a substantive strategic leadership role and is required to conceptualize, develop, implement and manage core financial policies, systems, processes and procedures which directly affect the utilization of financial resources.

The successful candidate will exemplify Nordiq Canada’ leadership competencies, displaying strategic vision, inspirational leadership, resource mobilization abilities, innovative problem-solving, and an unwavering commitment to professional integrity and ethical standards.

 

Specific Responsibilities include, but are not limited to;

Financial Strategy & Strategic Planning:

  • Develop and implement financial strategies to support short and long-term Nordiq Canada strategic initiatives;
  • Analyze financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities and provide insights and recommendations;
  • Collaborate with the Nordiq Canada Board, Finance Committee, Sport Canada, Own the Podium, Divisions, and other key stakeholders to set financial targets and monitor performance;
  • Work with Fund Development team on revenue generation and management; specifically accurate forecasting and reporting of revenues;
  • Reports to and advises management on revenue optimization opportunities and strategic revenues;
  • Work closely with the CEO and the Senior Leadership team on any advanced financial modeling requirements.

Budgeting & Forecasting:

  • Oversee annual budgeting process and presentation to Nordiq Canada Board for approval;
  • Monitor and report on budget variances, ensuring targets are met and resources are efficiently allocated;
  • Prepare and present the quarterly and year-end forecast to Nordiq Canada Board; and;
  • Prepare and present Sport Canada and Own the Podium budgets and forecasts and interim reporting.

Financial Reporting & Analysis:

  • Prepare and present detailed monthly and annual financial statements, reforecasts and support schedules; and,
  • Final review and approval of general ledger and bank reconciliations and working papers, ensuring all reporting is timely, accurate, and compliant with applicable laws, regulations, and audit standards.

Cashflow & Treasury Management:

  • Manage Nordiq Canada cashflow, ensuring efficient liquidity for operations, projects, or investments; and,
  • Oversee treasury functions including banking relationships, investments, and debt management.

Risk Management & Compliance:

  • Identify and manage financial risks including insurance, investment, and credit risks;
  • Ensure compliance with all financial, tax, and legal requirements;
  • Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure accuracy and compliance of financial records; and,
  • Final oversight and management of annual financial audit and corporate tax filing.

 

Candidate Abilities, Background and Experience

Given the role this individual will play in Nordiq Canada’s continued growth and success, it is essential that the successful candidate possess the following education, experience, and personal characteristics:

 

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Accounting or other related fields; and, C.P.A. designation is required.

Experience

  • Minimum of ten years progressive accounting experience;
  • Minimum of seven years in a prior leadership role;
  • Experience with Not-For-Profit Accounting;
  • Prior experience in a National Sport Organization or similar landscape;
  • Experience procuring and implementing accounting systems and expense software;
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet strict deadlines; and,
  • Expertise and comfort with technology platforms including Powerpoint, Excel, Word, MS Teams, or equivalents.

Personal / Professional Attributes

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to effectively communicate financial concepts and reports to various members of the Leadership Team, problem solve, and resolve conflicts;
  • Analytical, thoughtful, and possessing a level of creativity;
  • Courageous – willing to have tough conversations;
  • Communication skills – not only written and verbal, but also listening, and;
  • Ability to handle many projects and business challenges simultaneously.

 

Application Deadline: May 23rd, 2025

 

To Apply:

If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter to the application form.

APPLICATION FORM (click to view)

 

While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Nordiq Canada provides equal opportunity to all employees regardless of their gender, race, religion, age, ability, sexual orientation or marital status.

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2025-2026 National High Performance Program and AAP Carding Nominations https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/2025-2026-national-high-performance-program-and-aap-carding-nominations/ Mon, 28 Apr 2025 20:24:17 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=21067 Congratulations to the athletes who have been nominated to the National High Performance Program based on the criteria outlined in the Nordiq Canada National High Performance Program Selection Criteria 2025-26 and to those who will be nominated to Sport Canada to receive AAP carding under the Athlete Assistance Program Selection Criteria 2025-26. All nominations were reviewed and supported by the High Performance Committee.

 

Selection Rationale (click to view)

 

  • The goal of NHPP and AAP selection criteria is to select athletes who are following the performance pathway progression in relation to global competitors to achieve podium success at the Olympic Winter Games and World Ski Championships.
  • AAP carding type nominations are not finalized and subject to change upon review and acceptance by Sport Canada.
  • Team and AAP criteria descriptions are abbreviated versions of the criteria. Selection was competed using the full criteria description within the selection documents.
  • Development team size set to ten (10) athletes, comprised of five (5) males and five (5) females.
  • Athletes must meet all eligibility requirements in the NHPP and AAP carding selection criteria to be selected or nominated.

The deadline to appeal the NHPP and AAP carding nominations is May 12, 11:59 PM in the athlete’s residing time zone. Appeals must be submitted in writing to Nordiq Canada’s Appeal Manager, Stefano Mingarelli, at stefmingarelli@gmail.com.

There is a $250 fee payable to Nordiq Canada upon submission of an appeal. It’s highly recommended having a discussion with the HPD before submitting an appeal.

 

Summary of Nominations:

A Team

Katherine Stewart-Jones – AWCA, Nakkertok Nordic – QC
Antoine Cyr – CNEPH, Club Skinouk – QC
Sonjaa Schmidt – AWCA, Whitehorse Nordic – YT
Xavier McKeever – AWCA, Foothills Nordic Ski Club – AB
Liliane Gagnon – CNEPH, Skibec – QC
Olivier Léveillé – CNEPH, Club de Ski de Fond Orford – QC
Alison Mackie – AWCA, Edmonton Nordic – AB
Max Hollmann – AWCA, Big Thunder Nordic – ON
Graham Ritchie – NTDC T-Bay, Georgian Nordic Outdoor Activity Centre – ON 

 

B Team

Tom Stephen – AWCA, Foothills Nordic Ski Club – AB
Jasmine Drolet – CNEPH, Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne – QC 

 

National Group 1

Clara Hegan – Nakkertok Nordic – ON
Zachari Moreau – Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne – QC
Amelia Wells – AWCA, Strathcona Nordic Ski Club – BC
Finn Redman – AWCA, Telemark Nordic Club – BC
Derek Deuling – AWCA, Whitehorse Nordic – YT
Justin Boudreau – CNEPH, Club de Ski de Fond Montériski – QC
Constance Lapointe – Whitehorse Nordic – YT
Sasha Masson – CNEPH, Whitehorse Nordic – YT
Jonas Rolseth – AWCA, Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Minty Bradford – Whitehorse Nordic – YT
Anika Wallin – AWCA, Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club – BC
Ben Field – AWCA, Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Eamon Wilson – AWCA, Hollyburn Cross Country Ski Club – BC
Luke Allan – Nakkertok Nordic – ON

 

National Group 2

Olivia Bouffard-Nesbitt – AWCA, Club Fondeurs-Laurentides – QC
Pierre Grall-Johnson – CNEPH, Nakkertok Nordic – ON
Katie Weaver – AWCA, Hollyburn Cross Country Ski Club – BC
Julian Smith – NTDC T-Bay, Georgian Bay Nordic – ON
Rémi Drolet – Black Jack Ski Club – BC
Julien Locke – Black Jack Ski Club – BC
Erikson Moore – NTDC T-Bay, Club Fondeurs-Laurentides – QC
Félix-Olivier Moreau – CNEPH, Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne – QC
Xavier Lefebvre – Club de Ski de Fond Montériski – QC
Scott Hill – Team Hardwood – ON
Micah Steinberg – Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Marlie Molinaro – Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club – BC
Adam Heale – AWCA, Black Jack Ski Club – BC
Aidan Kirkham – Kanata Nordic Club – ON
Marielle Ackermann – Kimberley Nordic Ski Club – BC
Luke Fricker – Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Ry Prior – AWCA, Club Chelsea Nordiq – QC
Anna Stewart – Nakkertok Nordic – ON
Katya Semeniuk – Nakkertok Nordic – ON
Alexandra Luxmoore – Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club – BC
Maeve MacLeod – Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club – BC
Kendyn Mashinter – NTDC T-Bay, Walden Cross Country – ON
Élie-Anne Tremblay – Skibec – QC
Samuel Picard – CNEPH, Club Fondeurs-Laurentides – QC
Sabine Comeau – Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Alexandre Cormier – CNEPH, Club Fondeurs-Laurentides – QC
Garrett Siever – Telemark Nordic – BC
Noah Weir-Chaba – AWCA, Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Jérémy Lantz – Club de Ski de Fond Montériski – QC
Alexis Ermel – Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne – QC
Joël Thibault – Club Fondeurs-Laurentides – QC 

 

Development Team

Zachari Moreau – Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne – QC
Finn Redman – AWCA, Telemark Nordic Club – BC
Minty Bradford – Whitehorse Nordic – YT
Anika Wallin – AWCA, Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club – BC
Ben Field – AWCA, Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Eamon Wilson – AWCA, Hollyburn Cross Country Ski Club – BC
Thierry Olivier – CNEPH, Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne – QC
Aria Grandi – AWCA, Canmore Nordic Ski Club – AB
Sarah-Ève Picard – CNEPH, Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne – QC
Louison Dubief – AWCA, Fernie Nordic Society – BC

 

The HPC oversaw the athlete nomination selection process as per the Nordiq Canada Selection, Nominations and Announcement policy. Committee members are:

  • Graham Nishikawa (athlete rep – Para)
  • Devon Kershaw (athlete rep – Olympic)
  • Maria Lundgren (BC)
  • Pauline Nadlersmith (MB)
  • John Lofranco (Athletics Canada)
  • Julie Beaulieu (Nordiq Canada)
  • Chris Jeffries (Nordiq Canada)

Final athlete selections were approved by Chris Jeffries, High Performance Director: cjeffries@nordiqcanada.ca

 

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Nordiq Canada Board of Directors Call for Nominations https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/nordiq-canada-board-of-directors-call-for-nominations-2/ Tue, 22 Apr 2025 16:42:26 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=21015 Nordiq Canada is seeking qualified, passionate, and committed individuals who are interested in joining the Board of Directors of Nordiq Canada. The election of 1 man and 1 woman for Independent Director positions. The position for the 1 man is a 1-year term; the position for the 1 woman is for a 2-year term; set to begin at the Annual General Meeting, June 23, 2025. The gender requirement is based on the Nordiq Canada by-laws.

 

We are specifically looking for candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas to help round out the capacity and capability of the Board:

  • Fundraising and business development to assist the CEO with achieving a broader set of supporters for the organization
  • Financial management and budgeting
  • Risk Management

 

If you are interested in applying for the Board position, please submit your application (including cover letter and resume) via this form on or before May 10, 2025:

Submit your application

(or email Morgan Rogers, chair of the nominations committee: boardchair@nordiqcanada.ca with questions) Your cover letter and resume will be included with the AGM Notice to Members.

 

Nordiq Canada is committed to building cross country skiing as a sport that reflects and embraces the diversity of Canada and supports a culture that is equitable, open, welcoming, and inclusive.

 

Indigenous Peoples, members of racialized groups, persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Please submit your application no later than May 10, 2025. Once the nomination period has closed, applicants will be contacted by the Nominations Committee for interviews. Details of the nomination, election process, and the definition of an Independent Director are set out in Nordiq Canada’s by-laws.

Participation in the Nordiq Canada Board requires approximately 5 to 7 hours per month as well as completion of required onboarding, including Safe Sport clearance. Interested parties should also familiarize themselves with some particulars related to how the Nordiq Canada Board operates as a policy board by reading the documents found at the following links:

 

Thank you for your interest!

 

About Us

As the official governing body of cross-country and Para nordic skiing in Canada, Nordiq Canada promotes the growth and development of the sport from grass roots to high performance. Our 80,000 members include athletes, coaches, officials and skiers of all ages and abilities. As a national sport organization, we collaborate with provincial/territorial divisions, clubs and others to provide the leadership, support and resources needed for all Canadians to find their own greatness in our sport, whether they ski for fun and fitness, or they aspire to ski for their country.

Our celebrated National Ski Team is made up of superior athletes in the Olympic and Paralympic streams. What does it take for them to be the best? If you ask our athletes, they will tell you it takes hard work, dedication, and focus. As an organization we know Olympic, Paralympic, and World Championship achievements require significant investment in facilities, equipment, training, coaches, technicians, and opportunities to compete at local races and on the world stage. These investments in high performance will trigger success at every level and for every member — from grassroots to podiums. We believe that when athletes succeed, we all succeed.

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Breaking Barriers with Community Sport for All Funding https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/breaking-barriers-with-community-sport-for-all-funding/ Thu, 17 Apr 2025 20:52:28 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=21007 Nordiq Canada is proud to share that, thanks to funding from Sport Canada’s Community Sport for All Initiative, $255,000 is being distributed to 34 ski clubs across the country.

These clubs delivered inclusive programming this season to get underrepresented groups out on skis—all forging ahead before funding could be confirmed. Congratulations to all participating clubs for your dedication and impact.

Thank you to Sport Canada for helping us bring the joy of skiing to more Canadians.

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Emma Archibald and Julian Smith Announced as Nordiq Canada’s Athlete Representatives https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/emma-archibald-and-julian-smith-announced-as-nordiq-canadas-athlete-representatives/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 23:40:26 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=20957 Emma Archibald and Julian Smith have been elected to join Katie Weaver as Nordiq Canada’s athlete representatives to the Board of Directors.  

 

Meet Emma Archibald, Nordiq Canada’s first Para nordic athlete rep! 

Hailing from Fall River, Nova Scotia, Emma started skiing in 2019 with the Scotia XC club.

Now a member of the National Ski Team, she has spent the past two seasons competing on the World Cup circuit and was part of the 2025 FIS Para Nordic World Championships Team. 

Emma is also a nursing student at the University of Ottawa, where she trains with the Gee-Gees cross-country team. 

“I’m really excited to be one of the athlete representatives to the Board. This is a new and unique opportunity to strengthen the athlete voice within our organization, and I look forward to working with the Board and Nordiq Canada.” – Emma Archibald 

 

 

Meet Julian Smith, Nordiq Canada’s male athlete rep!

Julian Smith has been re-elected as the male athlete representative for a second term on the Board of Directors. A member of NTDC Thunder Bay, he has multiple World Cup starts and competed at the 2023 World Ski Championships. 

Julian also serves as an athlete representative on the AthletesCan Board of Directors. Outside of sport, he is a Lakehead University biology graduate who enjoys good food, coffee, golfing, photography, and ceramics. 

“I am honored to have been elected for a second term. I am focused on listening more and amplifying the athlete voice. This is a time to create the positive change that we, the athletes, want to see.” – Julian Smith 

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Tom Stephen wins the Ski to School Scholarship https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/tom-stephen-wins-the-ski-to-school-scholarship/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 20:44:13 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=20956 The Ski to School Scholarship is awarded to an individual who combines excellence in both academics and cross-country skiing. It is funded by Canadian university alumni cross country skiers and other interested parties to encourage students to continue to combine excellence in both academics and cross-country skiing as they proceed with their post-secondary, university or college education. This year, there was a strong pool of applicants. All applicants displayed a high level of academics, a commitment to sports and a desire to give back to their skiing community.

This year’s scholarship winner is Tom Stephen. “Tom has been able to maintain and improve his marks in a challenging academic program. He has raced at an international level with success but also overcome adversity in his skiing career. He fits in time to give back to his home club and stay involved at the ground level. We wish him continued success in the future!” – The Ski to School Scholarship Committee

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2025 Nordiq Canada Awards Nominations https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/2025-nordiq-canada-awards-nominations/ Thu, 03 Apr 2025 20:16:46 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=20946 For over 30 years these awards provide national recognition to Canada’s most impactful people in our cross-country ski community.   

 

Dave Rees Award  

Awarded to an individual who has made an outstanding long-term commitment to cross country skiing in Canada.  

Firth Award  

Awarded to a woman who has made an outstanding contribution to cross country skiing in Canada.  

Distinguished Volunteer Award  

Awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to cross country skiing.  

 

Nomination Form 

 

Nominations are due May 5.   

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Registration is Open for the Coaches Conference https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/registration-is-open-for-the-coaches-conference/ Fri, 21 Mar 2025 03:24:38 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=20855 From Theory to Training: Practical Coaching for Every Athlete, Every Day

 

April 24-27

Ottawa, ON, St. Paul’s College

 

Coaches often express that while coaching conferences provide valuable material, the content is not always applicable in daily training environments—particularly when working with large groups of 20-25 athletes without access to a fully integrated support team.

Building on the success of last year’s Communities of Practice, we remain committed to ensuring the practical application of the concepts presented. This year’s conference will focus on the theme: “How does this inform programming, and How can I apply it in my daily training environment (DTE)?”

We will explore the existing tools within our system that can be effectively utilized in a developmentally appropriate manner, ensuring they are adaptable to all levels and group sizes across the athlete pathway.

 

Learn More

Register

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Canadian Artist Mad Dog Jones to Design Nordiq Canada’s Olympic and Paralympic Race Suits https://nordiqcanada.ca/news-item/canadian-artist-mad-dog-jones-to-design-nordiq-canadas-olympic-and-paralympic-race-suits/ Mon, 17 Mar 2025 17:10:52 +0000 https://nordiqcanada.ca/?post_type=news-item&p=20849 Canmore, Mar 17, 2025 – Nordiq Canada is excited to announce world-renowned Canadian artist Mad Dog Jones (Michah Dowbak) will design the official field of play uniform for Canada’s cross-country ski and Para nordic teams at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Recognized as the most sought-after Canadian artist, Mad Dog Jones is adding Nordiq Canada to the list of global brands and high-profile athletes, including Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, with whom he collaborates. Jones’ work is known for its bold, futuristic aesthetic, and now, he’s bringing that same energy to Canadian cross-country skiing. Check out his Instagram here.

Before becoming a world-renowned artist, Michah was a cross-country ski racer in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and he remains an avid skier, still competing in local races. His deep connection to the sport and the team inspired him to take on this unique project—a first for a Canadian Olympic and Paralympic ski suit.

“I love cross-country skiing, so the opportunity to design a suit for Canada’s best athletes is incredibly special,” said Mad Dog Jones. “I want them to feel fast and strong every time they put it on.”

The 2026 race suit design will be a bold visual statement, reflecting Canadian heritage and the power and athleticism of Canada’s top cross-county skiers.

Nordiq Canada CEO Beckie Scott shared the team’s excitement: “To have an artist of this caliber, who is not only Canadian but also a cross-country skier, designing our Olympic and Paralympic suits is an incredible honor. We can’t wait to see our athletes race in a suit that blends art, sport, and national pride.”

Mad Dog Jones is giving back to the sport he loves, making this design possible for Nordiq Canada. His generosity ensures that Canadian skiers will stand out on the world stage.

Watch for the official unveiling of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games field of play uniform closer the Games.

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