(Red Deer, Alberta) – Residents came out to River Bend Golf and Recreation Area to try out cross country skiing and snowshoeing in celebration of the River Bend enhancements that were officially declared open today.

Over the past year, upgrades were completed at River Bend to meet technical requirements to host cross country skiing and biathlon during the 2019 Canada Winter Games. As part of the project, select trails were widened to better accommodate skate skiing, winter biking and other multi-trail uses resulting in improved recreational amenities for all residents. A stadium area for spectators was constructed as well as a media and timing cabin, and the biathlon range was renovated.

“As one of Red Deer’s most utilized parks, the modernizations made to the River Bend Golf and Recreation Area have already have demonstrated benefit for Red Deerians and Central Albertans who seek year-round recreational opportunities,” said Mayor Tara Veer. “We are also proud to welcome our country’s athletes and visitors to River Bend for cross country skiing and biathlon for provincial and national events.”

The biathlon range will be in action this weekend with the North American Cup, Western Canadian Championships and Calforex Biathlon Cup underway. Racing for biathlon occurs Saturday and Sunday and the public is welcome to attend.

More information is available at reddeer.ca/riverbend.