Athletics

Please share the events you participated in at the provincial level in one word or short phrase that sums up the experience.

Gavin: I participated in cross-country running two times and Nordic skiing multiple times at the provincial level over my high school career. I would say the experience was eye-opening every time in its own way.

When you finally hit the snow or trail, what was the biggest moment in your event? A tough section, a personal record or a moment you felt everything click?

Gavin: I would say the biggest moment at these provincial events is crossing the finish line and knowing you pushed your body to its max and you did your best on that day.

It sounds intense. What was the biggest challenge you faced during your actual event, and how did you push through it?

Gavin: The biggest challenge was trying to find the motivation to push myself hard and dig through the pain that my body was going through when I was racing.

Can you walk me through the atmosphere of the whole provincial event? What was it like being in that high-stakes competitive environment?

Gavin: The atmosphere was very inclusive and electric.With the amount of people watching and cheering you on, you really feel a lot of the energy from that big crowd.

Support must have been huge. How important was the support from your coaches, teammates or family being so far away from home?

Gavin: The support from everyone really played a huge role because you kinda got the feeling that I’m not just doing this for myself, but I’m also doing it for other people, even though it’s an individual sport.

Now that this event is over, what’s next for you and your sport? What are your goals for the near future?

Gavin: My goals for the near future is to be competitive in skiing and quad races in the U-20 category and do some more running races.

Finally, if a younger student is listening right now thinking about joining the team next year, what’s your quick piece of advice for them about getting started?

Gavin: I would say the best piece of advice is to practice and really be consistent with the training that you are given.

Please share the events you participated in at the provincial level and one word or short phrase that sums up the experience.

Nash: My name is Nash Parsons. I’m currently enrolled in Ignace High School. I’ve participated in cross-country once, Etobicoke 2023, and twice in skiing, Lakefield 2024, Sudbury 2025. My summary is that for each event, it makes me want to come back for more.

When you finally hit the snow or trail, what was the biggest moment in your event? A tough section, a personal record, or a moment that you felt everything click?

Nash: During cross-country, nearing the finish, the crowd is an environment unlike any other. It’s loud and inspirational, and you feel unstoppable.

It sounds intense. What was the biggest challenge you faced during your actual event, and how did you push through it?

Nash: The biggest challenge I faced for any event was to be pushing yourself to your limit and to not let your mind tell you anything other than to perform to your best.

Can you walk me through the atmosphere of the whole provincial event? What was it like being in that high-stakes competitive environment?

Nash: The atmosphere is insane. Everything happens so quick. You want to keep going back for more. You are competing to be the best in Ontario.

Support must have been huge. How important was the support from your coaches, teammates, or family being so far away from home?

Nash: Well, the majority of my trips were just Gavin and my coach. They’ve been there by my side, pushing me for my entire running career, and I wouldn’t be here without them.

Now that this event is over, what’s next for you and your sport? What are your goals for the near future?

Nash: My goals for the future is to make it once again for skiing for OFSAA, and then to run in varsity, whether that means college or university.

Finally, if a younger student is listening right now, thinking about joining the team next year, what’s your quick piece of advice for them about getting started?

Nash: I would tell them to join. What’s the worst that happens? One of the best is that you get to go to OFSAA.