July 17, 2018 (Yukon) – Sports and recreation in the Yukon just received a fresh infusion of $1.4 million in funding from the Government of Yukon, in partnership with the Yukon Lottery Commission and Sport Canada, according to a recent announcement reported in the Whitehorse Daily Star.

Under the new governmental funding program, 28 sports groups and five special recreation groups will receive funding ranging from $7,500 to $113,000 via the Yukon Recreation Advisory Committee — funding that helps Yukon sport governing bodies and special recreation groups develop and deliver sport and recreation development projects.

Through Yukon Sport 4 Life, a project-based funding that supports enhanced sport development initiatives, 26 sport groups will receive grants ranging from $2,750 to $63,500.

In addition to organization and sport groups, a long list of individual athletes will also get funding ranging from $500 to $11,500.

“Yukon is home to one of the most vibrant sport and recreation communities in Canada,” said Minister of Community Services John Streicker in a press release. “Sport, recreation, and active living contribute to our quality of life, and help our communities flourish. Whether you’re starting soccer lessons, working towards an Olympic dream, or keeping things nimble with the ElderActive Recreation Association, this funding helps Yukoners in all walks of life, and of all abilities, to develop their skills, compete and have fun.”

In particular, the winter sport of cross-country skiing is set to receive $63,500 from the Yukon Sport 4 Life program and $113,000 from the Yukon Recreation Advisory Committee, which is the highest amount of any of the sport groups.

In the elite athlete funding program, for those competing at the highest levels of spot, again cross-country athletes lead the way with two people, Dahria Beatty and Graham Nishikawa, each set to receive a grant of $11,500. In addition, Nadia Moser (biathlon) will receive $8,500 and Jessica Frotten (Paralympics) will receive $11,500. As well, 32 athletes qualify for grants under the high performance program including nine cross-country skiers.

Local media report here.