By Kevin Shields, Gatineau, January 2023

More and more Canadians are discovering the enjoyment of cross-country skiing. It is a wonderful way to explore nature and be physically active. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people either returned to cross-country skiing or tried it for the first time. Gatineau Park and other National Capital Commission parklands offer fantastic cross-country skiing.

On a stormy, snowy Sunday in January, Canadian Wintersports/The First Lap coaching invited three former summer Olympians for a ski day in Gatineau Park—no shorts and t-shirts on this day for the Olympic runners and paddler. No, the calendar indicated winter sports are “in session.” Cross-country skiing has become a regular activity for these former Olympians.

Read more about John Halverson, Adam Van Koeverden and Dylan Wykes in TheFirstLap.com blog.