Ted Kalil has experienced first-hand just how instrumental the Nordiq Canada Development Fund (NCDF) can be. “I remember talking to some of the athletes on site at the 2019 World Cup in Quebec City, standing by the trails,” began Kalil, a member of the Nordiq Canada Board and chair of the NCDF committee. “I recall the Friday was a sprint and there were distance races on Saturday and Sunday and talking to some of the athletes after they had their first experience...
The blast of noise emanating from the computer room at Lawrence Grassi Middle School in Canmore back on Feb. 15, 2002 could be heard as far away as Main Street.“I remember being 13,’’ Jesse Cockney is reminiscing, “and we – a few buddies of mine, Haakon Lenes and Evan Bruce, fellow skiers, some others, can’t remember who exactly, and I – were sitting at the computer, looking up the Olympic race results from Salt Lake City. “And we saw that Beckie Scott...
Note: This story was produced prior to Stéphane Barrette being named acting CEO of Nordiq Canada Montreal is known throughout the world as a stylish, cosmopolitan city. What may not be universally known, though, is that it’s become an urban hotbed for cross-country skiing. Immediately west of downtown, the hilly park known as Mount Royal serves as a destination for local aficionados who love to strap on the skinny skis without the long drive. With the weather...
The moment remains indelibly etched – no, engraved – in memory. The 7,200-seat Laura Biathlon & Ski Complex in Krasnaya Polyana, Russia, located on the crests and slopes of Psekhako Ridge, just before 2 p.m. MSK, Feb. 8, 2014. “Being at the start line of the first race,’’ Emily Nishikawa is recalling, given the daunting task of selecting one touchstone moment from a commitment that had occupied most of her life. “For the skiathlon. Everyone runs...
It is no mere coincidence that Dave Wood came along just as Canada’s insurgence into the cross-country skiing elite began. “He worked hard to create a culture of unity and support within the ranks,” Beckie Scott pointed out, “which was ultimately a determining factor in how successful we became.” “He was,” pitched in Sara Renner, “the ground-breaker in the Canadian coaching system in the sport of cross-country skiing.” After a coaching career spanning nearly four...
