AUSXC European Tour Team Van Fundraiser

Cross-country skiing coach Alexei Sotskov will be part of the Australian XC Team for the first time during the upcoming European season campaign and he's excited to head overseas with some of our best skiers. The AUSXC European Tour will give our athletes a chance to show true Aussie Nordic character and skills, with Sotskov also acting as designated Trip Leader.

"My main role is supporting the athletes preparing for and competing at events such as the World University Games, the Junior and the Under-23 World Championships," Sotskov said.

Unfortunately, due to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of the trip this season (including items such as flights, insurance and vehicle rentals) will be significantly higher than previous years. Coach Sotskov wanted to make a personal appeal as the AUSXC team is seeking help from the community to support the complex logistics associated with the trip.

"This situation places extra costs on the families of the athletes," Sotskov explained. "That's why we are seeking support from the snow community to raise funds and contribute towards some of the critical team's costs. In this case, helping us to fund one transportation van, which is essential to our operation.

"Over the last few weeks I spent a countless number of hours trying to secure a reliable and affordable vehicle for the team. The best I could find is a 9-passenger Volkswagen van with winter tires and 4WD capability - for AUD 9,342.16.

"Would you be interested in helping us out and sponsor one week (AUD 847) or a race day (AUD 121) transportation of the team? Or would you be willing to help us covering fuel costs? In any way, you get the point: as a team leader, I am asking for help!" Sotskov said. 

Snow Australia contribute funds towards the program including covering coaching costs and wax technicians expenses. All funds raised via this project go towards expenses that would be otherwise paid directly by the athletes. The team will actually use two of these vans, but only one is operational for the entire time.

You can make a donation at this address or visit our fundraising page here.

Snow Australia and AUSXC would like to thank everybody in advance for their support! Keep abreast of the team activities via the Snow Australia and the dedicated AUSXC website, or via @ausxc on social media.