Innovation, Business and Rural Development
Tourism, Culture and Recreation
April 24, 2014

Strategic Investments Support Recreational Opportunities in Labrador

Over $46,000 in Funding Assists Menihek Ski Club in Welcoming Canada’s Skiing Elite

As a result of Provincial Government funding totalling $46,040, the Menihek Nordic Ski Club is better positioned to welcome Canada’s skiing elite to the 2014 Canadian Masters Series Cross Country Ski Championships, being held this week in Labrador West.

“As a result of hosting the 2014 Canadian Masters Series, more than 100 racers, along with their supporters, will make their way to Labrador West to enjoy Menihek Nordic Ski Club’s top notch recreational cross-country skiing facilities. As the Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development, as well as Tourism, Culture and Recreation, this investment of $46,040 represents a triple win − it promotes a healthy lifestyle; brings new visitors to this unique area of our province; all while energizing the local economy.”
- The Honourable Terry French, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development and Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation

Funding has been utilized for facility improvements, to purchase new equipment, as well as for marketing initiatives devoted to the event. With the most recent improvements, the ski club expects to continue to provide a quality recreational facility to the local community and a place that promotes healthy living and outdoor enjoyment.

“The Menihek Nordic Ski Club is an internationally-recognized facility that has hosted the best skiers from across Canada and the world for many years. The facility has a reputation for well-groomed trails and excellent skiing conditions. I am sure that all participants will enjoy their experience while in Labrador West for the Canadian Masters Series and the area’s image as a skiing destination will further grow.”
- The Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister of Transportation and Works and MHA for Labrador West

With ideal snow conditions, Labrador West has earned a reputation as one of the finest areas for winter sports within the province where the ski season extends from late October until the end of April. The 2014 Canadian Masters Series runs from March 24 to 29.

“The Menihek Nordic Ski Club is very pleased to partner with the Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development in hosting the 2014 Canadian National Masters Cross Country Ski Championships, a world-class competition. The championships will enhance the Menihek Nordic Clubs reputation for the capacity to offer quality skiing for all skill levels while at the same time enhancing the local economy with skiers coming from all over Canada. These events also serve to highlight cross country skiing as a sport and healthy recreational activity and promote Labrador West as a winter sport destination and centre for competitive and recreational skiing throughout Canada.”
- Gerry Rideout, President Menihek Nordic Ski Club/ President Cross Country NL Ski Association

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• The Menihek Nordic Ski Club is welcoming the 2014 Canadian Masters Series Ski competition with Provincial Government support totalling $46,040.
• Funding has been utilized for facility improvements, new equipment, and marketing initiatives devoted to the national event.
• Founded in 1975, the Menihek Nordic Ski Club is an accomplished cross country ski facility boasting a modern base lodge complete with full-time staff, meeting rooms, and a complement of rental skis.
• Additional information on the Menihek Nordic Ski Club can be found at: www.meniheknordicski.ca.
• Information on the Canadian Masters Series Ski competition is available at: www.cccski.com/Events/Events-Info/Masters-Racing/Menihek-Nordic-will-host-the-2014-Canadian-Nationa.aspx.

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Media contacts:

Heather MacLean Director of Communications Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 697-4137 heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca	Melony O’Neill Director of Communications Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation 709-729-0928, 689-0928 moneill@gov.nl.ca
Gerry Rideout, President Menihek Nordic Ski Club President Cross Country NL Ski Assoc. 709-944-1802 menihek@nf.aibn.com	Bridget Baker Constituency Assistant to the Honourable Nick McGrath MHA for Labrador West 709-832-2531 bridgetbaker@gov.nl.c

2014 03 24                                    4:15 p.m.