From February 7 to 8, 2026, the 28th All Japan Para Nordic Skiing Championships were held at the Hakuba Cross-Country Stadium in Nagano Prefecture. Four organizations--JCCU, CO-OP Kyosai (Insurance Federation), CO-OP Nagano, and Toyama Co-op--supported the event as "special sponsors".

This historic competition brings together athletes with diverse disabilities from across Japan to compete and showcase their skills. In the 2025/26 season, it was also the only official domestic competition held in Japan. A total of 34 athletes participated, including world-class competitors such as KAWAYOKE Taiki, a gold medalist at the Beijing Paralympics, and NITTA Yoshihiro, a gold medalist at the PyeongChang Paralympics. On the first day, the Sprint Classical (1.25 km) event was held, followed by the Classical 10 km and 5 km Challenge Class races on the second day.

The Japanese consumer co-ops supported the event with the aim of raising awareness among members nationwide about activities supporting para-skiing and expanding the circle of support. Over the years they have continuously provided assistance through food donations and financial contributions. At the venue, flags bearing messages of encouragement were displayed, and popular mascots such as "Hopetan" from the CO-OPdeli Group and "Kosuke" from CO-OP Kyosai appeared to cheer on the athletes.

In addition, warm amazake (a traditional sweet rice drink) and cookies from CO・OP Brand Products were distributed to athletes, staff, and spectators enduring the severe cold, offering support that warmed both body and spirit.

　　　

JCCU will continue to support and cheer on the Para Nordic Ski Team, together with consumer co-ops nationwide and their members.