If you’re looking for something to do with your kids over March break, a national skiing championship is slated to come to town and spectators are welcome.
The Alpine National Championships will be sliding into the Collingwood area March 15-18, with events taking place at Craigleith Ski Club, Georgian Peaks Club and Osler Bluff Ski Club.
This will mark the first time in nearly 30 years the event will be taking place in Collingwood.
“We’ve launched a new strategic plan and we’re trying to bring our major championships around the country,” said Jeff Thompson, vice-president of domestic sport and events with Alpine Canada. “(Collingwood) is clearly a ski hub, and Toronto is in close proximity. The draw is very high. We thought it would be great to bring the event there.”
The Canadian National Championships are held each year, bringing athletes from across Canada to vie for national pride as the Canadian champion. This year, approximately 220 athletes both national and international are slated to participate.
While international rankings are tied to the event, the title of International Slalom and International Giant Slalom champion will be on the line.
“Whoever is not at the World Cup finals, which is happening the same time as our event, will be there,” he said.
Thompson said all the venues have double vaccination requirements for spectators, however all events are free to attend.
He recommends the double slalom team evening event taking place on March 17 as the one to watch.
“For the Collingwood-area ski enthusiasts to see this level of ski racing happen in their backyard is pretty significant,” said Thompson. “Kids that are out for March Break can come check it out, or members of local ski clubs. Hopefully, people take advantage.”
For the event schedule, click here.
