April 26, 2017 (Yukon) – Talented Yukon cross-country skiers Emily Nishikawa, Dahria Beatty and Knute Johnsgaard, all members of Canada’s national ski team, are the first recipients of a new Northern Exploration and Sport Development Fund, established by RyanWood Exploration of Dawson City, Yukon reports CBC.ca.

(l-r) Emily Nishikawa, Shawn Ryan, Cathy Wood, Dahria Beatty, and Knute Johnsgaard © Grant Abbott

In total the athletes will receive $70,000 to pursue their careers to the next level, as they compete to make it to the next Olympics. Local supporters Cathy Wood and partner Shawn Ryan are behind the initiative. “Sports — and youth sports in particular — is very dear to my heart,” said Wood – read more here.