Saturday, February 16, 2002
Skiing is believing
By ANDREW SMITH -- Calgary Sun
Those who know Vermilion's Beckie Scott were not surprised the cross-country skier captured a bronze yesterday, they just wished they'd seen her win.
Seems those left behind at the Canmore Nordic Centre were outside doing some trail work when Scott became the first Canadian to capture an Olympic cross-country medal, missing the race entirely.
Either way, everyone at the Nordic Centre was thrilled to know an Olympic medal would be headed their way for the first time since 1988.
"It's unbelievable," said Joanne Thomson, administrator for Cross-country Canada.
"I'm not even sure if this is her race, so it's kind of a bonus."
Scott has enjoyed success on the world cup circuit but along with her teammates has struggled to make a name for herself and her sport in Canada.
Although she's known primarily as a sprinter, Scott's coach Dave Wood was not shocked by the result.
"The sprint is where she's usually been to the podium but for her to win in the pursuit is not impossible," said Wood from Soldier Hollow, Utah.
"Am I surprised?
"Not at all."
This has already been a successful Games for Scott, who boosted the cross-country community's spirits with a sixth-place finish in the 10 km on Tuesday.
Thomson believes that result boosted her confidence and yesterday's win will help even more.
As for the future of the sport, Thomson also believes this could encourage younger Canadians to take up the sport, following in the footsteps of a person she calls the perfect role model.
"She's definitely got a head that's mentally strong for cross-country," said Thomson.
"She just goes for it but takes the time to talk to the kids."
2002 Games Cross Country Skiing Coverage
