A strong performance in the season's opening race has four members of the Cold Lake Blizzards ski team headed to the Alberta Winter Games.
The Blizzards sent five athletes to compete at the Rabbit Hill Open in Leduc County, on Dec. 16 and 17, 2017.
Four of the young skiers were able to secure a spot on Team Zone 7 for the Alberta Winter Games in February.
Ben and Nathan Sylvestre will make the trip from Bonnyville to Wood Buffalo, along with Anick Levesque and Chiara Harris. They'll join five athletes from Fort McMurray, who were previously selected to the team.
“The Cold Lake Blizzards couldn't be more proud of the racers representing us at the Alberta Winter Games. These four athletes will not only be chasing personal bests and season goals, they will be highlighting our team at the provincial level,” said Blizzards media contact Andrea Woods.
Before they hit the slopes in Wood Buffalo, the athletes will have plenty of time to tweak their technique. They'll get their chance at a few more meets, including the third annual Blizzards Blast at the Kinosoo Ridge Ski and Snow Resort from Feb. 10 to 11.
So far, each of the skiers have been enjoying the process, and the connections made during the opening race.
“It was a good weekend. We had fun at the race, and it was a great team bonding experience. Getting selected for Team Zone 7 felt really good and exciting,” expressed Bonnyville skier Levesque.
Between now and the games, the athletes will try to best their performances in Leduc. Ben, Levesque, and Harris will try to fight their way onto the podium at upcoming events, while Nathan will look to improve on two bronze medal winning runs.
When the games kick-off in February, the Blizzards intend to show the rest of the province what skiing in the Lakeland is all about.
“This is an opportunity for the Cold Lake Blizzards to show the province that we're a determined, competitive team that is dedicated to alpine ski racing. These racers continue to put Cold Lake on the map, showcasing our race program every time they enter the start gate,” expressed Woods.
