The Government of Canada Commemorates the National Historic Significance of Ski Jumping at Mount Revelstoke
News Release
July 8, 2017 Revelstoke, British Columbia Parks Canada Agency
Canada’s national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas enable Canadians to experience their rich and varied history in a special way and play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to experience nature and learn more about our history.
Today, Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, commemorated the historic role of Ski Jumping at Mount Revelstoke. A Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque was unveiled at the Nels Nelsen Ski Jump in Mount Revelstoke National Park, British Columbia, followed by the grand opening of Nels’ Knickers, a new interpretive experience exhibit.
The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant people, places, and events that contributed to our country’s diverse heritage. Ski jumping, introduced in Canada by Scandinavian immigrants in the late 19th century, was one of the earliest forms of alpine skiing in the country. In 1916, a local Revelstoke ski club, together with the newly created Mount Revelstoke National Park and the town, built the platforms and judging tower that made the hill a venue for international competition. From 1916 to 1975, Mount Revelstoke would be the site of many ski jumping championships, and also became known for its vibrant winter festivals.
Many outstanding ski jumpers, including Nels Nelsen, Robert Lynburne, Isabel Coursier, and Hans Gunnarson, practiced the sport at Mount Revelstoke. Dazzling crowds with their thrilling jumps, they set world records in ski jumping and helped enhance Canada’s international stature in the sport.
Parks Canada invites Canadians to be inspired and captivated by the stories of the people, places, and events that shaped the Canada of today. Take advantage of free admission to Parks Canada places in 2017, and discover truly Canadian places and stories!
Quotes
“As an immensely popular spectator sport in the early 20th century, ski jumping at Mount Revelstoke became an internationally recognized event where world class athletes came to compete. This designation reflects the rich heritage of our nation and provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diverse history, especially during the 150th anniversary of our beautiful country.”
The Honourable Catherine McKenna,
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
Quick Facts
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Originally known as the magnificent “Big Hill”, and later renamed the “Nels Nelson Hill”, the lower slope of Mount Revelstoke was one of Canada’s earliest permanent ski jumps and the largest natural jump in the country.
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Nels Nelsen broke the world record in 1925 when he jumped 240 feet (73.2 meters). Isabel Coursier set the world female record in 1922 when she jumped 84 feet (25.6 meters). Bob Lynburne represented Canada at the 1932 Olympics and set a world record the next year when he jumped 287 feet (87.5 meters).
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Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national historic significance of places, people, and events that have marked Canada’s history.
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Contacts
Shelley Bird
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Parks Canada
780-883-0297
shelley.bird@pc.gc.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca