When Claire Lapointe graduates from high school in a few years, she hopes to attend UNBC and continue training at the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club.
That's thanks to the UNBC Otway Nordic Legacy Scholarship Fund, which has reached its initial target of $150,000 in less than a year.
Beginning in September 2015, the UNBC scholarship will offer one full tuition scholarship worth $5,000 each year to an elite nordic athlete to continue studying and training in Prince George.
"It would allow me to stay at home with my family and friends and stay and train and work with the coaches here," said Lapointe, a Grade 11 D.P. Todd student who competes in biathlon.
Besides the full tuition scholarship, a separate supplemental $1,000 scholarship will also be available.
"This is the first scholarship of its kind in Canada," said CNSC president Kevin Pettersen. "Once it's built, the proceeds will last. We announced it on Nov. 3, 2013 and right off the bat it resonated with [CNSC] members and donors and the momentum grew. This has made a tremendous mark on the nordic world. The feedback has been great. It's been able to capture the passion and minds of everybody."
So far, CNSC members have contributed $40,000.
Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines pushed the fundraising drive over the top with a $50,000 contribution. UNBC matched those funds with $50,000.
The Otway Nordic Ski Club is one of the top athletic venues in northern B.C. and will host cross-country skiing, biathlon, and para-Nordic competitions at the 2015 Canada Winter Games in February. The venue has hosted national championships and was recently upgraded with a new biathlon range and new tracks, among other improvements, in advance of the 2015 Games.
"We're thrilled to be a part of this initiative," said UNBC president Daniel Weeks. "Trying to raise this amount is extraordinary. This is an example of how we're providing the opportunity for students and athletes to stay in Prince George."
People can still contribute to the scholarship fund if they want. For information, go to www.caledonianordic.com or www.unbc.ca/giving
