November 10, 2005 – The Canadian National Ski Team is expected to arrive in Vernon on Saturday, November 12th in preparation for the Haywood NorAm Races scheduled for November 26th and 27th at Sovereign Lake and for the World Cup races on December 10th and 11th.
Canada’s National Ski Team “2006” (the Olympic team) consists of Beckie Scott, Sara Renner, Milaine Theriault on the Women’s Team; and George Grey, Dan Roycroft, Drew Goldsack, Chris Jeffries and Devon Kershaw on the Men’s Team. In addition, there are other members who will be selected to compete at the World Cup, depending on their standings in the NorAm Races here and in Canmore December 3rd and 4th.

The National Ski Team will also have a staff of four coaches and six wax technicians. Some of the team members also have their own personal coaches.

Canada’s National Ski Team has traditionally come to Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre for early season training in November because of the reliable early and abundant snow. This year, they will be able to train on the World Cup courses that have been developed over the past months.

“I am really looking forward to getting on snow with our national team in Canada, and begin our final preparations for the World Cup competitions in front of our friends and family at Sovereign Lake and Canmore”, said gold medalist Beckie Scott. “Having the opportunity to host a World Cup in our home country will hopefully inspire more Canadians, especially youth, to get involved in cross country skiing. I’m anxious to hit the start line this December.”
“With the Haywood NorAm races less than three weeks away, it’s exciting to see Team Canada arriving early to take advantage of the world-class facilities and excellent ski conditions at Sovereign Lake,” said Tourism, Sport and the Arts Minister Olga Ilich. “Team Canada will benefit from this opportunity to train and compete at home and I know their presence will be an inspiration to B.C.’s young skiers.”