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Gold for first-time biathlon competitor from Surrey

Allison Kelly-Dejesus is with 767 Dearman cadet squadron
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Surrey cadet Allison Kelly-Dejesus in a biathlon event in Whistler last weekend. (Photo: Captain Shirley Ho, Unit Public Affairs Representative)

A first-time biathlon competitor from Surrey was golden during a recent event in Whistler.

Sergeant Allison Kelly-Dejesus, 17, won in the Cadet Female Youth category and also the Top Shot Award at the Vancouver Coastal & Fraser River competition at Whistler Olympic Park.

She’s a cadet with 767 Dearman Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron (767dearman.com).

“It’s my first year participating in biathlon,” Kelly-Dejesus said. “Cross-country skiing is new to me even though I have gone downhill skiing before. The hardest part is getting back up after falling, especially on a hill. But, if you just keep going, you will feel a sense of satisfaction when you get to the top.”

Kelly-Dejesus was among more than 60 cadets who competed in hopes of earning a spot at the B.C. provincial cadet biathlon competition in Comox in February.

The cadet program “aims to develop in youth ages 12-18 the attributes of good citizenship and leadership, promote physical fitness and stimulate an interest in the sea, land and air activities of the Canadian Armed Forces.”



Tom Zillich

About the Author: Tom Zillich

I cover entertainment, sports and news stories for the Surrey Now-Leader, where I've worked for more than half of my 30-plus years in the newspaper business.
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