The Larch Hills Nordic Ski Club would like to give recognition to the Canadian Tire Parasport Jumpstart Fund for their financial support in securing two sit skis, poles along with skis and standalone poles for the new Para-Nordic Fundamentals Program. The program introduces children to the fundamentals of both standing and sitting para-nordic cross-country skiing and competition if desired.
The Parasport Jumpstart Fund is a partnership between Jumpstart and the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC). Together they grant organizations funds to improve access to participation in sports for children with disabilities. Eligible organizations can access funding for both Paralympic sports and parasport activities such as wheelchair dance, waterski, wakeboard, para golf, para-sailing and para-skiing.
The Larch Hills Para-Nordic Program had a successful year through the 2017-18 season. Kaden Baum started training with the team in December and raced in the Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet, School Pirate Loppet and at the Teck B.C. Cup Championships. Natalie Wilkie, also a member of the para-nordic program, has been successful on the world stage, competing in the Pyeongchang Paralympics and earning a bronze medal for her performance in the 1.5km Women’s Sprint Classic, Standing competition.
Any youth between 9-18 years old with limited mobility that would like to try sit skiing or para-nordic skiing can contact Donna Flatman for more information at 250-832-1362.
Submitted by Donna Flatman