June 26, 2026, Township of Champlain - The Township of Champlain is proud to announce that Ross Gourlay has been named its 2025 Senior of the Year, recognizing his outstanding volunteer contributions and long-standing commitment to promoting healthy, active living in the community.
Mr. Gourlay received the award during the June 25, 2026 Council meeting. The Ontario Senior of the Year Award recognizes seniors who have enriched the social, cultural, or civic life of their communities after the age of 65.
“Mr. Gourlay exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that makes our community so strong,” said Mayor Normand Riopel. “For nearly three decades, he has dedicated countless hours to creating opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy healthy outdoor recreation. Through his leadership and collaboration with volunteers and landowners, Mr. Gourlay has helped make Ski-Vent-Clic an important asset for Champlain Township.”
Mr. Gourlay and his wife Mary moved to Vankleek Hill in 1995 and soon became involved with Ski-Vent-Clic, the community's non-profit cross-country ski club. While Mary led a youth ski program, he helped maintain equipment and support trail operations.
Today, Mr. Gourlay serves as President of Ski-Vent-Clic and has been involved with the organization for nearly 30 years. Alongside a team of approximately 16 volunteers, he helps maintain and operate an 18-kilometre trail network around Vankleek Hill. During the 2025-2026 season alone, volunteers contributed more than 350 hours to the trails, which welcome up to 250 skiers annually and serve as official training trails for the Canadian Ski Marathon.
“While the award is being presented to me, it should really be shared with the other members of the Ski-Vent-Clic team who volunteer their time to make winter fun and healthy,” said Ross Gourlay. “Thank you to the volunteers, the landowners, and Champlain Township for making it all possible.”
The Township of Champlain congratulates Ross Gourlay on being named the 2025 Senior of the Year and thanks him for his remarkable service to the community.