Friday, February 11, marks the opening day of cross-country skiing’s Eastern Canadian Championships, at the Nakkertok Ski Centre. While the three top local skiers, Katherine Stewart-Jones, Antoine Cyr and Laura Leclair, are representing Canada at the Olympic races in Beijing, Évènements Nordiques Gatineau Nordic Events (ÉNGNE) will be organizing races for the next generation of Olympians. The event is attracting skiers from across the country, and will be an important competitive opportunity as the athletes prepare for the Canadian Championships to be held March 20 to 27 in Whistler, B.C. Whistler will also be the site of the 2023 World Junior and U23 Championships, the third time that Canada has hosted this prestigious event.

To ensure the safety of everyone involved, athletes, coaches and volunteers must be fully vaccinated to participate, there will be no spectators allowed and strict Covid-19 safety protocols have been put in place.

Tourisme Outaouais will be a presenting sponsor for the event and their support and that of the Ville de Gatineau, have been essential for the success of many local ski events.

Athletes will vie for almost $12,000 in prize money, including $6,000 of the “Hall Mark of Excellence Program” and contributions from Ski de Fond Quebec, Cross Country Ontario and ÉNGNE . The Hall Mark of Excellence program was set up by former Canadian National Team coach Marty Hall, and his wife Kathy, to help with the development of skiing in Canada and the U.S.

Media are invited to attend the event February 11 to 13. Out of town racers will be arriving on Thursday, February 10. For on site access during the event please use the contact information below.

The Open competition classes compete: Friday 9-11; Saturday 10:45-12; and Sunday 9:30-12. For more information contact:

Anton Scheier media@engne.ca 613-601-8257

Marie-Pier Pelletier-Millette mariepierpm@gmail.com 819-593-1159