March 21, 2012 (Quebec City, QC) – The Canadian XC Ski Team, including Devon Kershaw, Alex Harvey, Lenny Valjas, Chandra Crawford, Alysson Marshall and Kevin Sandau arrived at Quebec City’s airport late Monday night from Europe to applause and cheers by fans and media.

The WCup team returned from a stellar season to compete at the 2012 Canadian XC Ski Nationals this week at fabled Mont-Sainte-Anne, the home trails of local hero Alex Harvey and his legendary father Pierre. Originally scheduled for a late afternoon arrival delays out of Europe meant they missed their connection meaning a 10:20pm arrival in QCity but that didn’t deter fans who were eager to embrace the stars who put Canada on the international map with amazing, and record-breaking performances.

The skiers were recognized for their achievements so far this season, which saw many historic Canadian firsts. Canada’s National Ski Team combined to win 14 medals on the World Cup circuit this year, including Kershaw becoming the first Canadian male to finish second in the overall World Cup standings and winning two gold and three bronze medals.

Adding to the excitement were Harvey’s first World Cup gold to go along with a silver and bronze, Valjas’s first three career medals (one silver and two bronze), Chandra Crawford’s return to the international podium with a silver and bronze medal, and Crawford and Perianne Jones’ bronze medal in the World Cup team sprint race in Milan, Italy – check out these photos from QCity airport.