National sporting event needs local support

The Canadian cross country ski championships next year in Greater Vernon are looking for more local support.

The event at the Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre March 25 to April 2, 2020 will attract 800 athletes, and is expected to have a $2.3 million economic impact to local businesses, with hotel stays, food and general tourism.

The event carries a price tag of $200,000 and organizers are looking for business sponsors to get on board.

“It will take the entire community and local businesses to support this high-profile event,” Jeff Basset, a volunteer with the sponsorship committee said.

Some local businesses have already signed-up as sponsors, including the title sponsor Stussi Sport. Kal Tire has also made a sizeable donation.

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Sponsorships range from $500 to $15,000 and include various levels of recognition and involvement.

About 300 volunteers are needed to run the event.

“Interested parties can apply to volunteer on the event website later this month,” Bassett said.

Businesses interested in sponsoring the event can contact the sponsorship committee through the national championships website.

The Canadian Ski Championships are an annual event hosted in partnership with Nordiq Canada, the national governing sport body for cross-country skiing, and include the junior and senior championships and double as the championships for Canadian universities and colleges.