SWEDEN – Andy Buchholtz would be making his grandfathers proud in legendary fashion.
During most days this winter, the weather has been balmy and there’s a noticeable lack of snow around Canmore.
By all means, the La Niña forecast, promising more snowfall, hasn’t shown her face ‘round these parts, especially if cross-country skiing in the Bow Valley and Kananaskis Country is a typical after work or weekend exercise.
There is one place where most skiers have been getting their fix on frozen trails: the Canmore Nordic Centre. And keen-eyed skiers frequenting the facility probably have noticed one ski warrior powering through the trails every day.
That is the strong-willed Andy Buchholtz, who has been skiing for four hours per day – approximately 50 kilometres on a normal day – in preparation for the not-for-the-faint-hearted Nordenskiöldsloppet, a 220-kilometre single-day race in Sweden.
“I really enjoy the aspect of things like, ‘OK, how far can I go?’” said Buchholtz.
The ultra-distance competition isn’t just a pain-loving masochist’s dream, though. Buchholtz has sentimental reasons why he will challenge the limits of mind, body and soul come Saturday (March 29).
In a fitting tribute to his late grandfathers, while he’s been out skiing, Buchholtz is raising awareness and funds for Parkinson’s disease. Richard and George both lived with the condition and passed away in the past two years. Buchholtz also has one family member currently living with Parkinson’s.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects mobility. According to Parkinson Canada, more than 110,000 Canadians are living with the condition.
"We're blown away by Andy's inspiring efforts in memory of his grandfathers. Parkinson's touches so many families across Canada, and our mission is to empower everyone affected by Parkinson's to thrive and live courageously," said Katie Rock, director, philanthropy, Parkinson Canada, in an email.
Right from the get-go, it's been a “very special cause” for Buchholtz. He said that his grandfathers were sportsmen, adding that relatives appreciate his efforts.
“I come from a family that were very much into sports and sports achievement,” said Buchholtz. “It is really a kind of thing that triggers a lot of happiness among us.”
Originally from France, Buchholtz moved to Canmore five years ago after he had fallen in love with the mountain community while on vacation here a few years prior. He grew up cycling, and wanted to be a biathlete, but he only really got into skiing in 2020 once he relocated to Canada and had the playground to do so.
In three short years, he had signed up for the biggest ski test up until that point: the in Greenland, a three-day 160km competition that is dubbed “the world’s toughest cross-country ski race”.
His cause at that time was to fundraise for The Grizzly Bear Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to the well-being of grizzlies. Along with Canmore’s Alma Steyn, they completed the Arctic Circle Race.
Skiers competing in the Nordenskiöldsloppet have 30 hours to complete the race, offering a much different challenge than the Arctic Circle Race which could be broken down over three days.
Buchholtz said the fastest times across the finish line in Sweden will be in the 12-14 hour range. He will be shooting to complete the entire distance in less than 20 hours.
“There will be challenging times,” he said. “In terms of the mental game, where you’re like, ‘can I actually do this’ or ‘am I about to quit or I’m gonna quit.’ And then, you just hang there and a couple of hours later, you’re like, ‘I’m going to do this.’
“So mentally, I think it’s going to be a huge challenge because it’s not like challenging yourself over six hours. It’s mostly going to be challenging yourself for 17 to 20 hours.”
In Sweden, Steyn will also be accompanying Buchholtz, but like her work at Gourlay’s Pharmacy, she’ll be providing more of a support and caretaker role – helping Buchholtz refuel over 220 km. He expects to burn between 10,000-12,000 calories and have lots of blisters, but is excited to test his abilities.
“I think it’s going to be a great adventure,” he said. “Alma will be there ... so I was very excited to have someone supporting [me] and to be there for [me] in a very tough time.”
Buchholtz has also had additional local support with physio and sponsorships to keep him moving on the frozen trails.
“I’m 100 per cent ready for the race, so that’s really cool,” said Buchholtz. “Everybody's very supportive made a huge difference.”
For those wishing to donate or seeking more information, visit .
Parkinson’s information, support and resources are available by visiting or calling 1-888-664-1974.
