October 15, 2005 – Cross Country Canada recognizes that the process related to the selection of an alternate skier to compete in the World Cup competitions in Düsseldorf on 22 and 23 October were flawed. Cross Country Canada wishes to express its regrets to the athletes involved and to the ski community at large for the errors that have occurred.

The selection process did not observe the principle of due process and did not comply fully with the requirements of the published criteria for this trip.

In order to redress the immediate problem in a manner that is fair to the athletes who are most directly involved and that acknowledges the need to act decisively so that trip planning and preparations can proceed, Cross Country Canada has decided to select two athletes – Daria Gaiazova and Chandra Crawford – to participate in the Düsseldorf trip.

In addition, after further analysis, dialogue and due consideration, Cross Country Canada will take any action deemed necessary to ensure that a similar situation does not occur in the future.

Cross Country Canada reaffirms its commitment to operate in a manner that is consistent with the principles and values that we share as a single community of common interest. These include fairness (including due process), athlete-centredness, mutual respect, transparency, teamwork, excellence and integrity.

In conclusion, Cross Country Canada apologizes for the stress and conflict that have been caused by this incident, and requests your continued support and confidence as action is taken to make amends.