Improvements that may have been many years in the making were driven to the forefront at Whiskey Jack Ski Club with the 2020 BC Winter Games on the horizon. A new stadium, timing hut, accessible washroom and a higher calibre and more efficient groomer are just a few of the improvements Fort St. John’s cross-country skiing community will be able to utilize following the games.  

The President of the Whiskey Jack Ski Club, Eliza Stanford, has been working hard to bring these projects to completion over the last 18 months.

“We knew this work needed to happen, but the games were the catalyst to get them done. Now our community will be able to use and enjoy them for years to come,” Eliza says.

Between coaches, athletes and spectators over 200 people are expected at the park during the competitions in February.

BC Games funding through the Powering Potential Fund provided partial funding for the club’s new Ginzu Groomer. Northern Development Initiative Trust also made a significant investment into this important piece of equipment.

“What we were doing for grooming really wasn’t ideal for freeze-thaw snow conditions,” Eliza says. “The new groomer has an electronic track setter and we will now be able to groom the track the way it should be for competition.”

Cross Country Skiing events will be taking place at Beatton Park on February 21, 22 and 23. Everyone is invited out to spectate the events and check out the great new amenities. According to Eliza, the 400-metre sprint on Saturday will be one of the most exciting to spectate as no matter where you are, you can see the skiing. 

“Eliza is a true asset to her sport and club. She has been working from the beginning to ensure that her event has everything needed so that the athletes have an amazing experience.

She is a true example of a volunteer leader in these games,” says Angela Telford, Director of Sport for the 2020 BC Winter Games.