Yukon native Sonjaa Schmidt, a 23-year-old cross-country skier, has secured a spot on Team Canada’s Olympic roster. This marks her debut appearance at the prestigious event, making her the sole representative from the northern region. Schmidt expressed her excitement, acknowledging the widespread support she has received from the Yukon community, friends, and family.
Schmidt joins a notable group of athletes, such as Dahria Beatty, Knute Johnsgaard, and Emily Nishikawa, who have elevated Yukon’s reputation in cross-country skiing despite its modest population. Her selection came after an impressive performance at the Olympic trials in Vernon, B.C., where she clinched victory in the 10-kilometer interval start classic race, earning her a coveted spot on the Olympic team.
Having been introduced to skiing at a very young age by her father, Schmidt has embraced the sport wholeheartedly. Her triumph as the first Canadian woman skier to claim gold at the U23 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Slovenia in 2024 stands as a testament to her dedication and skill.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Olympics in Italy in February, Schmidt is uncertain about her event participation. Meanwhile, she plans to spend the Christmas holidays in Whitehorse, braving the frigid Yukon temperatures to continue training on the trails. Schmidt’s unwavering commitment to her sport and her community exemplifies her passion for cross-country skiing.