As summer’s first heat wave arrives in the region, cross-country skiing is probably not top of mind for most residents, but Champlain Township has honoured a resident for his contribution to cross-country skiing in the community.
Ross Gourlay of Vankleek Hill was presented with the Township’s 2026 Senior of the Year Award at the council meeting held on Thursday, June 25.
Gourlay and his wife Mary moved to community more than 30 years ago and used their love of cross-country skiing to help Ski Vent-Clic development and maintain its network of cross-country ski trails that loop around the town each winter. Gourlay continues to serve as President of Ski Vent-Clic.
“Mr. Gourlay exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that makes our community so strong,” said Champlain Township Mayor Normand Riopel. He added that Ski Vent-Clic is an asset for Champlain that creates opportunities for all ages to enjoy outdoor recreation and has a positive effect on the quality of life of residents.
Gourlay was not expecting the award.
“This really came as complete surprise,” he said.
Gourlay said the other volunteers, including a core group of about 16 people, who help make the trails possible each season. He also expressed concern about how the high-speed rail project could affect the Ski Vent-Clic trails.
“If Alto puts that new railway line on top of the PR Trail, then our ski trail is ‘stuffed,” Gourlay said.
He added that the ski trails only use a small part of the Prescott and Russell Recreational Trail, but the section is an important part of the network.
