Judy and Stephen Hale of Charlottetown win Myriam Bedard biathlon award

Charlottetown coupleJudy and Stephen Halereceived an unexpected honour at the Canadian biathlon championships in Quebec recently when they were awarded theMyriamBedardaward,recognizingcommitment anddedication to excellence in biathlon.

Judy Halehad no idea they were getting the award andsaid it was an exciting surprise.

"It certainly does represent what Stephen and I stand for, so to be recognized on the national stage ...is quite humbling," she said.

The Hales have been involved in helping build biathlon in Canada for about 30years, including the lasttwo decades on P.E.I.

Theycoach a number of young Island competitors, two of whomjust returnedfrom the North American championships in Maine with huge wins. Caitlin Campbell of Bedequewon the overall North American title for junior women (19-20 age group)andLucas Boudreau of Emyvale earned the overall youth title (17- to18-year-olds).His twin brother Andre was a close runner-up.

Campbell and Boudreau just did the Canadian Nationals and North American championships back-to-backseven races in 10 days. Hale said their program is small, but mighty.

"We've been able to set the bar high and have our athletes work hard to have those huge achievements, such
as making the World Youth and Junior team this year. That's two out of 16athletes across the country, so that's pretty good consideringthe small base of numbers that we have here," she said.

Lucas Boudreau won the gold medal in the mass start event at the championships with his twin,Andre, taking the silver medal in the pursuitevent. In addition to her title,Campbell came home with three silver medals.

"These successes are a team effort," said Hale. "With credit going to all the coaching staff, parents and supporters alike.

"It's a really strong biathlon community here and it's only under those supportive conditions that people can thrive."