Photo by Nathaniel Mah
OTTAWA – Following the heartbreaking announcement that the COVID-19 Pandemic had caused the cancellation of the FISU World University Games, Ravens nordic skier Bronwyn Williams is getting a second chance to represent Canada. On Monday, Nordiq Canada named Williams to the Championship Team for the 2022 World Junior and U23 World Ski Championships being held in Lynga, Norway February 22 to February 27, 2022.
The Ottawa skier has quickly set aside the heartbreak of a cancelled international competition, with strong showings at the recent Candy Cane Cup and, most recently, at the National Trials in Canmore, Alta. The latter experience, where Williams raced alongside fellow Raven Katherine Mason, and her sister, former Raven Zoë Williams, proved just the change of fortune Williams needed.
Bronwyn’s blazing 3rd place result in the U23 sprint skate race at trials was enough to secure her a spot amongst Canada’s top young skiers. Despite early-season training being hampered by an injury, Williams is thrilled with the result.
“I have been struggling with injury so going to trials was a last-minute decision. As a result, I really wasn’t expecting to qualify for U23s so it definitely came as a bit of a shock that I was able to race fast enough to qualify.”
As the OUA season remains paused due to the pandemic, Williams will return to training with a renewed focus and a second chance to represent her country. “This opportunity means a lot, especially with FISU being cancelled because I feel like this is my second chance to race internationally and I am sure it will be a really good learning experience for my skiing career.”
Having to overcome frigid temperatures and adjusting to elevation at the trials, Bronwyn believes she’s tapped into a new level that will help her to find success next month in Norway.
“The tough racing definitely made me stronger though and in the 10km classic race on Saturday I was able to dig deeper and find a new gear. I am going to try my best to find that gear again during the races in Norway!”
