The countdown to Canmore’s first biathlon world cup has begun, as the provincial government has provided $650,000 in funding to support the Bow Valley event.
Four races attracting the best biathletes in the world, including Canmore’s Rosanna Crawford and Nathan Smith, will begin on Feb. 4, 2016, and include four races, concluding on Feb. 7, 2016 at the Canmore Nordic Centre.
“We are thrilled to have the Alberta government as a longstanding supporter of biathlon in this province. This major contribution will help showcase Canmore and Alberta on the world stage,” said event chair Ken Davies.
The money comes from Alberta Parks and Tourism and makes up a significant portion of the event’s budget. Private sector funding will make up the rest for a sport that attracts television audiences in the millions in Europe. Several European television crews have already been spotted at the Canmore Nordic Centre, scouting camera locations.
The Alberta government provided funds for IBU Cup 7&8 in Canmore in 2015, and is continuing its support of the program with the world cup races.
