Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
February 22, 2011
Improvements Fortify Labrador Ski Club on International Stage
Menihek Nordic Ski Club, a cross-country ski facility that has hosted world cup competitions and international training programs, will undergo significant improvements as the result of a $99,775 investment by the Provincial Government. In addition to enhancing the overall skiing experience, the funding will help bring greater opportunities for winter tourism operators and retailers in the Labrador West area of the province.
“The international reputation of Menihek Nordic Ski Club, along with the rising popularity of snowmobiling and Cain’s Quest, has created a cluster of winter activities in Labrador West that is attracting a growing number of visitors to the area,” said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. “With an increase in visitor traffic, as well as usage among local residents, there are considerable opportunities for local businesses. This investment represents the continued commitment of the facility’s board of directors to maximize the economic potential of the ski club.”
Minister Sullivan announced the Provincial Government’s support today at the Menihek Nordic Ski Club. Minister Sullivan was accompanied by the Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs, and Jim Baker, MHA, Labrador West, as well as members of the Menihek Nordic Ski Club.
“This investment in the Menihek Nordic Ski Club will help to further secure its growing international status,” said Minister Hickey. “Cross-country skiing enthusiasts in Labrador West and abroad will benefit from these improvements at the ski club, helping to maintain the facility as a major attraction for the winter tourism industry.”
With the investment, upgrades include the installation of a permanent lighting system and a wireless race timer. A new groomer will also be added, which will increase the facility’s grooming capabilities and ensure the trails are adequately maintained.
“This is great news for the residents of Labrador West,” said Mr. Baker. “Menihek Nordic Ski Club is a world-class cross-country skiing facility that serves as a venue for hundreds of avid local skiers and has a long-standing reputation with national and international skiers alike for its expertise in hosting major provincial, national and world cup events. The enhancements made possible by this investment by our government will position the ski club and Labrador West in general to further maximize its potential as a prime destination for outdoor winter enthusiasts.”
Located outside of Labrador City, the Menihek Nordic Ski Club is home to 16 kilometres of trails for classic and skating technique. In addition to hosting international visitors, the facility is widely-used by members of the local community.
“For more than 35 years we have offered professional skiing programming and a quality venue to local residents, tourists and competitive skiers from around the world,” said Gerald Rideout, President, Menihek Nordic Ski Club. “This funding allows us to modernize our facility and continue to offer a world-class experience to anyone with a love of the great outdoors.”
This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund, which through Budget 2010: The Right Investments – For Our Children and Our Future was increased to an $11 million program. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the program provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.
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Media contacts:
| Scott Barfoot Director of Communications Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 690-6290 scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca |
John Tompkins Director of Communications Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs 709-729-1674, 728-7762 jtompkins@gov.nl.ca |
| Gerry Rideout Menihek Nordic Ski Club 709-944-5842 |
Donna Ivey Communications Manager Government Members Office 709-729-0898, 697-1424 donnaivey@gov.nl.ca |
2011 02 22 1:25 p.m.