Ross Burnett

Hall of Fame

If there’s ever a need to figure out a way around an obstacle, look no further than Ross Burnett.

Ross is one of the most highly regarded members of the Canadian Orienteering Federation (COP), and his experience as an athlete, coach, official and administrator places him in an elite group of people in the sport.

His time in varying roles often overlapped. He won three National Championships (‘87, ‘95 and ‘02) and was a member of four World Championship teams (‘83, ‘85, ‘87 and ‘89). Since joining the COP in 1976, he also served on its Board of Directors, its High-Performance Committee, National Team Coach (‘93 World Championships) and Team Leader (‘99 World Championships).

Born in Ocean Fall, British Columbia in 1959, Ross first arrived in the Yukon in the summer of 1987. His goal was to develop the first orienteering map of the Chadburn Lake area. Making the territory his permanent home in 1989, he has made enormous contributions ever since. He is one of a handful of enthusiasts who’ve achieved Level 3 Certification in both the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) as well as the COF — Officials Certification Program. His work developing new course structures and standards is now used at all National Championships and ‘A’ sanctioned events — these were the most significant technical developments introduced by the COF in 15 years.

Seen as an all-around ambassador of the sport, Ross built up the Yukon Orienting Association and boosted the quality of maps and experienced volunteers so the territory could comfortably host three Western Canadian Championships (‘94, ‘98 and ‘02). Under his tutelage, three of his proteges have been named to the national team and have competed internationally since 1993.

Recognition of his contributions goes well beyond the Sport Yukon Hall of Fame; Ross has also received eight Government of Yukon Awards of Excellence, all recognition for his elite athletic career, coaching successes and volunteerism. His dedication to orienteering is bolstered by his snowshoeing skills — having won 12 Snowshoeing Ulus at the Arctic Winter Games (‘92. ‘6 and ‘98).

We will be forever grateful for Ross as he continues to share his knowledge and experience with all sport enthusiasts.