Gore-Tex Deep Winter Experience Week Storms Into Whistler

ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge Returns as Marquee Event January 15

Whistler, BC - January in Whistler is storm season, which means plenty of snow and deep powder days on the mountains. The GORE-TEX Deep Winter Experience celebrates storm season with clinics, ski and snowboard camps and discounts on outerwear. For the fifth year in a row the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge pays homage to this sacred occasion and the skiers, riders and photographers who cherish it.

“As Deep Winter enters its fifth year of competition, it continues to be an important event in Whistler. It is a celebration for the locals who are passionate about Whistler Blackcomb and skiing, regardless of the weather,” says photography veteran and former King of Storms, Paul Morrison. “From the beginning, the venue has been sold out and the competition impressive. This year's event will be another memorable celebration of the people and their passions who add to soul to Whistler.”

During the Deep Winter Photo Challenge, professional photographers shoot in-bounds at Whistler Blackcomb for three days capturing athletes in their natural mountain habitat of powder filled bowls, trees, and après bars. This year’s contenders are: 10-year veteran, Ilja Herb; accomplished snowboard photographer, Tim Zimmerman; Whistler local, Blake Jorgenson; outdoor lifestyle photographer, Robin O’Neill; Snowboard Canada Photo Editor, John Scarth; and up and comer, Andrew Strain. Their edited slideshows will be played in front of a live audience at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler and judged by a panel of industry professionals. A prize purse of $6,000 and the title of “King/Queen of Storms” are up for grabs.

“Deep Winter is all about showing images from the often untold side of winter,” says professional skier, Mike Douglas. “We get a lot of snow in Whistler and it's interesting to get out there and document the stormiest days. Shooting in stormy weather is way more work for both the photographers and athletes, but it's also really rewarding to see what you can produce in just three days”.

Tickets for the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge are $17 and are available at any Whistler Blackcomb Guest Relations location or by calling 1-800-766-0449. Doors are at 7pm and the slideshows start at 8pm with an after-party at Merlin’s Bar in the Upper Village.