Inducted 2014

Hodges Cove “Athlete” Lee Churchill is described as having natural talent partnered with an impressive internal drive and persistence in the sport of Cross Country Skiing. His three gold medals at the 1999 Canada Winter Games in Corner Brook are a stellar highlight in a remarkable athletic career. From 1992 – 1995 Lee won 2 gold medals at the Memorial University Invitational plus 3 gold medals, 5 silver medals and 3 bronze medals in provincial competition. Nationally in 1994 ?1995, he received 1 gold medal and 2 bronze medals at the Canadian Junior Championships. In 1996 and 1997 Lee won 3 gold medals, 1 silver medal and 1 bronze medal at the two Continental Cup competitions. At the United States Ski/Snowboard Association (USSA) Junior Trials, Lee won 1 gold medal and 1 silver medal. He won a silver medal at the World Junior Trials in Canmore, Alberta and finished second overall at the Canada Cup Series and placed respectively at the World Junior Championships in the 10km Classic. In 1997 and 1998, Lee skied at the Olympic qualifiers twice in the 15km Classic and the 10km Skate, while also competing at the Eastern Canadian Championships and the Continental Cup. In 1999, following his gold medal finishes at the Canada Winter Games in Corner Brook, Lee placed first and third at the Ontario Canada Games Trials, he competed in four events at the Continental Cup and competed in three categories at the Canadian National Championships. The following year, Lee was fifth overall on the Canada Points List for 2000, he skied to a fifth and sixth place finish at the Canadian National Championships, he placed third among Canadians at the US National Championships in Salt Lake City and he won a bronze medal at the Eastern Canadian Championships in the 15km classic. Throughout his highly accomplished career, Lee is described as a true leader and a sportsmanlike athlete who continues to give back by coaching and developing the sport of Cross Country Skiing at the provincial, national and international levels. Lee has been a great model for his sport and to future cross-country skiers in this province through his commitment, drive and diverse athletic career. Lee Churchill’s achievements in the sport of Cross Country Skiing, along with his character, demeanor and dedication speak to his induction into the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame.