Don Sumanik

Hall of Fame

Cross-country skiing is enjoyed in every corner of the Yukon, and Don Sumanik can be thanked for ensuring the sport is a staple of our community.

A resident of Yukon since 1966, Don was a major factor in the expansion of cross-country skiing in the territory. For years he worked cutting trails, setting ski tracks, promoting major events and serving as president of the Whitehorse Cross-Country Ski Club. Don was primarily responsible for bringing the 1974 Canadian National Cross-Country Championship, the 1976 Canadian National Senior Championships and the 1980 Canadian National Junior Cross-Country Championships to Whitehorse. He also served as the Race Chair for the 1974 and 1976 events, and in between he was Chair of the Canadian Ski Association.

Perhaps Don’s greatest contribution was bringing the 1981 World Cup Ski Race to Whitehorse and ensuring the Whitehorse Cross-Country Ski Chalet was built in time for the event. At the time, the Edmonton Journal wrote:

“Don Sumanik’s efforts on behalf of cross-country skiing would have surprised even the most skeptical of people who felt the World Cup finals would be only a dream the Yukon could never realize.”

Even when he was unwell and waiting for his second heart surgery of the year, Don was completely engaged during race week and was appointed World Cup Chair. Don died in 1982 but his contributions to the cross-country ski community will live on indefinitely.