Canada News Wire
News release
World Para Nordic Skiing, Cross Country Canada and the Canadian Paralympic Committee are pleased to announce that the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club in Prince George, B.C. has been chosen as host site for the 2019 World Para Nordic Skiing Championships to be held in February 2019.
Approximately 140 athletes from over 20 countries will travel to Prince George to compete in Para cross-country skiing and biathlon events.
The event will mark the first world championship held in the city of Prince George. In 2015, the city successfully hosted the 2015 Canada Winter Games, the country’s largest domestic multisport event. Now, it is set to welcome the world.
“The first-ever world championship in Prince George – I like the way that sounds,” said Lyn Hall, Mayor of Prince George.
“Less than a year after the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games, the 2019 World Para Nordic Skiing Championships in Prince George will be a fantastic opportunity to expose Canadians to world class competition,” added Karen O’Neill, CEO of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. “Fans can expect to see many established stars from PyeongChang, as well as new athletes with great potential, competing in Prince George in 2019.”
Canada has a rich history in Para Nordic skiing. Brian McKeever has won 13 Paralympic medals in three Games, including 10 gold, the most ever by a Canadian winter Paralympian. His brother and original guide, Robin, is now a national coach in the sport.
Added Erica Hummel, CEO of Tourism Prince George:
“We are thrilled that this high profile event is coming to Prince George, creating further recognition that we are succeeding in building a reputation as a world-class sport hosting destination. We’re looking forward to showcasing our northern city and creating the warm hosting atmosphere we’re known for here in Prince George.”