Summer Activities Gearing Up at Whistler

Alpine Tubing, Glacier Skiing/Riding, Sightseeing, Blackcomb Base Adventure Zone

Whistler, BC - Winter operations may be wrapping up at Whistler Blackcomb but the summer season is just getting started. With a wide variety of activities available both on and off the mountains, summer opens up a whole new world of possibilities at Whistler Blackcomb.

“As we transition from winter to summer, it is an exciting time to experience Whistler Blackcomb’s snowy alpine experience,” says Rob McSkimming, Vice President of Business Development at Whistler Blackcomb. “With North America’s only summer tube park, glacier skiing and riding beginning June 18 and sightseeing, guests will be certain to have an unforgettable experience”.

2010.2011 has officially been named the second snowiest season ever at Whistler Blackcomb and with Mother Nature off to a slow start this spring, a winter wonderland awaits up in the alpine.

Whistler Blackcomb Named One of Canada's Greenest Employers Three Years Running

Recognition given for energy conservation initiatives, waste reduction, and staff dedication

Whistler, BC - For the third year in a row Whistler Blackcomb is celebrating Earth Day (April 22) as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers, awarded by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers project.

“We are thrilled and honoured to accept this award,” says Dave Brownlie, President and Chief Operating Officer at Whistler Blackcomb. “This accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication and support of our employees, our guests and our community. Whistler Blackcomb has been working hard to reduce our environmental footprint for a number of years, recognizing the importance of long term environmental stewardship. We will continue to work towards our environmental goals while consistently providing the best mountain experiences on the planet.”

Whistler Blackcomb’s overarching environmental goal is to one day achieve a zero operating footprint. The company takes steps towards reaching this goal by focusing on energy conservation initiatives and waste reduction programs. While there is still a long way to go, Whistler Blackcomb believes in an “every step counts” philosophy and works hard to empower both staff and guests to work towards a greener future.

“We are very grateful and humbled to be recognized,” says Arthur DeJong, Whistler Blackcomb’s Mountain Planner and Environmental Resource Manager. “Being so close to nature in Whistler, we understand that what we do to nature we do to ourselves. The soul of a company is its purpose and our purpose is to one day have zero operating impacts on our natural environment. It is our hope for guests who visit Whistler Blackcomb to become inspired by our enactments, leading them to make sustainable choices in their own homes and communities.”

Whistler Blackcomb Introduces Guest Height Restriction

Policy Implemented To Accommodate High Snow Levels
Whistler, BC - Whistler Blackcomb announced today a new height restriction for all skiers and riders after record breaking snow this season.

From today onwards, guests shorter than 350cm/11.5 feet, the current snow base, will be prohibited from accessing Whistler Blackcomb without the required equipment: snorkel, a shovel and point of view camera.

The policy has come into effect after 315cm (124inches) of snow fell this past month, the second snowiest March on record. To date, mountain safety teams have been able to identify individuals immersed in the snow after using specialized audio equipment to detect their cries of “woohoo” and “yeehaw.”

“Having too much powder is a big problem here at Whistler Blackcomb,” said John McGroomer, senior vice president of Lame. “When we get a big dump of snow, not only do we encounter a lot of powder frenzy, many powder hounds adopt a ‘no friends on a powder day’ attitude, skiing or riding with only a select few, only reuniting with miffed boyfriends/girlfriends at après.”

Including the record-setting March, Whistler Blackcomb has seen nearly 14 metres (46 feet) of snow so far this season, well above the average annual snowfall of 10.25 metres (33.66 feet). With over 50 days of skiing/riding remaining this season, it’s shaping up to be an amazing spring.

Whiteface/NYSEF’s Biesemeyer Wins Overall NorAm Alpine Crown

Whistler, BC - Just one year after suffering a torn ACL, Tommy Biesemeyer of Keene, N.Y., captured the alpine NorAm men’s overall super combined crown after winning the super combined and finishing second in the Super-G, during Sunday’s, March 20, series ending races held in Whistler, British Columbia.

The 22-year-old missed out on most of last season after suffering a torn ACL while preparing for the start of the 2010-11 Europa and World Cup series in Portillo, Chile. That injury forced him to miss the entire season while rehabbing in Park City, Utah. He began skiing at the age of three and is another alpine skier who began is career with the New York Ski Educational Foundation (NYSEF) at Whiteface, in Wilmington, N.Y.

“The NYSEF team and coaches that worked with Tommy are absolutely elated over his overall NorAm victory,” said NYSEF director Jay Rand. He joined the NYSEF Program as a youngster and progressed through the program, while simultaneously attending the National Sports Academy. In spite of an ACL injury last season he showed his fortitude and desire to win through this prestigious victory. It is clear that Tommy has what it takes to maintain a long and prosperous career with the U.S. ski team, and he is a great role model for NYSEF’s many up and coming NYSEF Racers.”

“ Whiteface is very happy to partner with NYSEF to provide World Class training on the Olympic Mountain,” added the mountain’s manager Bruce McCulley. “We are extremely proud of Tommy’s accomplishment and wish him the best for his future.”

Jim Johnston, Biesemeyer’s NYSEF coach added, “Tommy has an exceptional support system from his parents and coaches. It is great to see him excel to the next level, we look forward to following him on the World Cup next season.”

Biesemeyer has one more race left this season, the U.S. national championships in Winter Park, Colo. The event begins Thursday, March 31.

Blake Jorgenson Named 'King of Storms' at Deep Winter Photo Challenge

Whistler, BC - Iconic Whistler photographer Blake Jorgenson took home the King of Storms title at the fifth annual Deep Winter Photo Challenge, presented by ARC’TERYX and Whistler Blackcomb. Second place went to the event’s first-ever female competitor, Robin O’Neill, and third went to up-and-coming photographer Andrew Strain. Ten-year photography veteran, Ilja Herb’s epic ski photo was voted Best in Show by the panel of judges.

“I don’t think winning is as exciting as executing an idea and bringing it to life in front of the audience. For me that’s the thrill.” says Jorgenson. “As a photographer, I never choose the photos that get printed. It’s always somebody else’s choice. To come up with a concept and bring it to life exactly the way I want, in front of a home crowd, is the best thing ever.”

Jorgenson took home the $3,000 grand prize and will have his name added to the King of Storms trophy, a new addition to the event that was designed by Keith Berens at Live Metal Promo. All previous Deep Winter winners will be added to the trophy to commemorate their achievements.

The six photographers had three days to shoot in bounds at Whistler Blackcomb with their athlete teams. In addition to the photographers named above and powerhouse of athletes, Snowboard Canada Photo Editor John Scarth and accomplished snowboard photographer, Tim Zimmerman joined the quest for ‘King/Queen of Storms’ title and a total prize purse of $6,000.

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.

ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge

Whistler, BC - January is a sacred month to Whistler locals and snow lovers alike as intense weather systems routinely drop a bounty of powder on the Coast Mountain Range. For the fifth year in a row, the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge prepares to pay homage to the beloved storm season and the skiers, snowboarders and photographers who cherish it.

The Deep Winter Photo Challenge will take place Saturday, January 15 and is the marquee event of the GORE-TEX Deep Winter Experience which storms into Whistler January 8-16. The Challenge will feature slideshows from six of the industry’s best ski and snowboard photographers taken over three days at Whistler Blackcomb.

Tickets to the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge are $17 and available at any Whistler Blackcomb Guest Relations location or by calling 1-800-766-0449.

Word of the Week: Snow!

Whistler, BC - A heavy Pacific storm has been hitting Whistler Blackcomb this weekend, dropping between 25-30cm of snow at higher elevations. The freezing level is expected to remain steady with more periods of snow forecast for this week. Meteorologists are calling for a La Niña weather cycle for the Pacific Northwest, meaning cooler temperatures and more snow than Whistler Blackcomb’s annual average of 34 feet/10.25m.

Whistler Blackcomb Early Bird Season Passes on Sale

Whistler, BC - After last year’s record-breaking winter and a memorable summer, powder revelers can kick start the upcoming skiing and riding season by purchasing an Early Bird Whistler Blackcomb Season Pass for 2010.2011. From August 30, through to October 11 an Unlimited adult Season Pass is available for the Early Bird price of $1,349, a saving of $350. Unlimited Season Passholders get unlimited access to the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola year-round, winter and summer.

“This season, guests will be able to take full advantage of their season pass all the way from November to May,” says Stuart Rempel, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Whistler Blackcomb. “After last season’s epic snowfall and hosting the world’s biggest party, there is a huge pent up demand for skiing and riding for the upcoming winter. The season pass gives guests the freedom to really maximize their time on the slopes throughout the winter season.”

Last winter, Whistler Blackcomb welcomed the world as the Alpine Skiing Venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. And to top it all off, consistent snowfall throughout the winter months made 2009.2010 the second snowiest season on record with 1,492cm/587inches. November 2009 was also the snowiest month on record with 560cm/220 inches of snowfall.

For 2010.2011 guests can enjoy the Olympic legacies that remain from Whistler Blackcomb’s time in the world spotlight. The Men’s and Women’s Alpine Skiing Courses will be open for all to ski and ride this winter and there’s nothing more exhilarating than following in the tracks of Olympic and Paralympic heroes. Meanwhile, a recent $17.5 million investment in snowmaking infrastructure compliments Mother Nature’s good work. And finally, the new and improved Sea to Sky Highway makes for shorter travel time between Vancouver and Whistler.

The Canadian National BBQ Championships Spice Things Up in Whistler

Cooks from all over North America compete for over $5000 in cash prizes and the title of “Canadian National Champion 2010

Whistler, BC - The Canadian National BBQ Championships return to Whistler for the 9th year in a row July 30 to August 1, 2010. Considered the highlight of the Pacific Northwest's competitive BBQ circuit, the BBQ Championships will take place at Dusty’s Bar & BBQ in Creekside and are sure to spice things up in Whistler for the August B.C. Day long weekend.

“For 9 years we have been hosting the National BBQ Championships at Dusty’s and every year it gets bigger and better,” says Joshua Kearns, Dusty’s Manager at Whistler Blackcomb. “With delicious food and great music, the BBQ Championships are a great way to spend the weekend with friends and family in Whistler.”

The event kicks off Friday night with a free Whole Hog BBQ Demonstration at 7pm. BBQ Champion, Jim Ericson, will teach the secrets of slowly cooking a whole hog over a 24 hour period and the hog will be served for dinner the following night at the Saturday Night Whole Hog Feed. Dinner will also be available after the demonstration on Friday night for $15. To cap off the evening, Dusty’s presents The Hip Show, a Tragically Hip tribute band who will hit the stage at 10pm.

In addition to the annual C.A.S.I International Chili Championship that will take place at 2pm, Saturday is Local’s BBQ Day. Residents can test their BBQ skills and enter for their chance to win over $2000 in cash and prizes. Entrants can compete in the Backyard BBQ Burger Competition presented by Bull’s Eye BBQ Sauce or in the Budweiser “King of the Grill” competition where contestants must submit a grilled or smoked meat or vegetable item (or combination of the two) that has been cooked on-site. The events kick off at 1pm with live entertainment on Dusty’s patio from noon.

Sunday is the main event where cooks from all over North America will gather to go head-to-head in five competition categories: Pork Butt, Beef Brisket, Chicken, Ribs and Pork & Cork, where contestants will be judged on their abilities to make the perfect match between BBQ pulled pork and Ravenswood’s legendary Zinfandel wine. Judges will score entries with 25 per cent weighted on appearance, 25 per cent weighted on texture/tenderness and 50 per cent assigned to taste. In addition to $5000 in cash and prizes on the line, winners will also receive an invitation to the Jack Daniel's World Championship BBQ event in Lynchburg, Tennessee.

The Whistler Blackcomb Foundation and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre Join To Create Whistler Alpine Welcome Figure

Whistler, BC - On June 24th at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre(SLCC) in Whistler, master carver Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) will commence the carving of a Salish Welcome Figure to be placed in near Peak 2 Peak Gondola Station as a continuation of Cultural Journey Sea to Sky up Whistler Mountain. The carving is a joint effort by the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation and the SLCC to increase the profile of Aboriginal Tourism in the region.

Guests, community members and staff are welcome to visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler’s Upper Village to meet the carver, assist him in his carving and take some of shavings as mementos from their experience. The welcome figure is expected to be placed in the Whistler Alpine in August, 2010.

Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) is a renowned Squamish Nation carver. He has been an influential figure to many of the younger carvers and youth of the both the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. His carving will be a traditional Salish Welcome Figure of a man with hands held open while also incorporating some of the key elements of Whistler Blackcomb. Xwalacktun said “I enjoy the opportunity to meet people as I carve and look forward their participation and questions about my work”.

"The Whistler Blackcomb Foundation is very excited to provide a grant that will help support the Cultural Journey hosted by the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations," says Dave Brownlie, President of the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation. "A prominent spot for the completed Welcome Figure on Whistler Mountain will culminate the Cultural Journey. The structure will also provide an additional avenue for guests to learn more about the great significance and contributions of the Squamish and Lil'wat people in this region.”

The welcome figure carving will commence and be traditionally blessed at 1:00pm on Thursday June 24, 2010 at part of the Cultural Journey Sea to Sky Launch Celebration. The new Highway 99 sign kiosks, gateway rock signs and aluminum guide signs are also part of the initiative known as Cultural Journey Sea to Sky hosted by the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations and coordinated by the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, BC.

Whistler Blackcomb Reflects After An Epic Season

Highlights Include: Record Breaking Snowfall, the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and the Golden Eagle Award
Whistler, BC - The 2009/2010 winter season at Whistler Blackcomb was one for the record books. History was made this year in more ways than one beginning with record breaking snowfall in November and was topped off when Whistler’s 50 year dream of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games was realized.

“This has been a season like no other,” says Dave Brownlie, President and Chief Operating Officer at Whistler Blackcomb. “We could not have asked for a better year to host the Games and have the eyes of the world on us. The phenomenal early snowfall set the tone for the season and a number of blue bird days during the Games helped to showcase the beauty and majestic nature of this amazing place.” Brownlie continues, “With all of the media exposure generated by the Games, and resulting new awareness levels for Whistler, Whistler Blackcomb is excited to convert desire into action. We will be working hard to continue on the awareness momentum of the Games and attract guests from all over the world to Whistler next season and beyond.”

Whistler Blackcomb Wins Golden Eagle Award for Environmental Excellence

Whistler, BC - Clif Bar has honoured Whistler Blackcomb with the Golden Eagle Award for Overall Environmental Excellence at the recent 2010 National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) National Convention and Tradeshow. This is the third time Whistler Blackcomb has received this honour, which is considered the highest level of environmental achievement in the ski industry.

"It is profoundly inspiring for us to be recognized by our industry peers for overall environmental excellence as we continue to strive for improved performance,” says Arthur DeJong, Whistler Blackcomb’s Mountain Planning and Environmental Resource Manager.

According to the NSAA, judges credited Whistler Blackcomb with its comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship, including its efforts to reduce waste and conserve energy. Golden Eagle judges also recognized Whistler Blackcomb’s involvement in the development of the Fitzsimmons Creek Renewable Energy project; a Run-of-River project that will produce enough power to match the company’s entire annual energy consumption, which includes snowguns, lift operation and on-mountain restaurants. The hydro-powered facility, which became operational in early 2010, is located entirely within Whistler Blackcomb’s operating area and was produced in partnership with Innergex Renewable Energy Inc., Ledcor Power Group.

Crud 2 Mud Downhill Makes a Triumphant Return to Whistler Blackcomb's Event Lineup

Four-year hiatus serves to fuel anticipation for May 22, 2010
Whistler, BC - Whistler Blackcomb’s Crud 2 Mud is a classic “transition season” event mixing the end of the ski and snowboard season with the start of the bike season.

In teams or individually, Crud 2 Mud competitors ski or snowboard from the top of Whistler Mountain to the bottom of the snow line, where bikes and equipment lay waiting. Ski and snowboard boots ditched, competitors clip into bike pedals and race through the Whistler Mountain Bike Park (on a yet to be determined trail).
“The Crud 2 Mud is the only race that solves the spring-time dilemma of choosing whether to ride or ski. It allows you to do both,” says Rob McSkimming, Whistler Blackcomb VP of Business Development. “So many people in Whistler are accomplished at both sports. Why not try to determine who is best at both?”

Registration for the Crud 2 Mud Downhill opened April 19, 2010 and is available through Whistler Blackcomb Guest Reservations or by calling 1.800.766.0449. The event is recommended for strong intermediate to expert skiers, snowboarders and mountain bikers. Due to the nature of the event, and the ever-changing snow conditions, there will be a mandatory meeting for all participants at the Garibaldi Lift Company (GLC) on Friday, May 21 at 6pm. The event format will be discussed and the courses will be announced.

Whistler Blackcomb Announces New Interim PR Manager

Whistler, BC - Tabetha Boot to bring strong relationships and expert knowledge to the position
Tabetha Boot has been named Whistler Blackcomb’s interim public relations and communications manager during the maternity leave of Christina Moore.

Boot brings five years of experience in the Whistler Blackcomb public relations team to meet this new challenge. She has a post-graduate certificate in Corporate Communications from Sheridan Collage as well as an MBA, with a specialty in PR & Communication Management, from Royal Roads University.

“We are thrilled that we are able to fill this important position internally as the knowledge and background that Tabetha brings to this role will prove invaluable,” says Stuart Rempel, Whistler Blackcomb’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Tabetha spearheaded the development and execution of Whistler Blackcomb’s Olympic communications plan and has earned a huge amount of respect within the regional news media for her attentiveness to and understanding of media’s needs. Her internal knowledge of Whistler Blackcomb’s core business objectives, key audiences, corporate culture and operations procedures will ensure her success in providing strategic communications counsel to the company, and leading her team effectively throughout the coming year.”

Boot will oversee a team of four full time year-round staff as well as an additional seasonal staff member to meet the needs of the busy department. This team is expert at accommodating the requirements of the 650+ media visits that Whistler Blackcomb hosts each year in addition to the hundreds of media inquiries that result throughout the year.
“I am very excited to take on this new role with Intrawest and Whistler Blackcomb,” says Boot. “Whistler Blackcomb has allowed me to grow and learn so much while working for this organization. Stepping up to take on the role of manager is exciting and I look forward to the challenge. The part I am looking forward to most is the opportunity to lead a very talented team of public relations professionals as we continue to set the bar for communications excellence.”

2009-2010 is Second Snowiest Season on Record at Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler, BC - Another blast of winter weather hit Whistler Blackcomb dropping 21 centimetres on the mountains in the past 24 hours. The fresh powder overnight brings the total snowfall this season to 1,432 centimetres or 47 feet, surpassing the 2006/07 record of 1,416 centimetres or 46 feet, making this season officially the second snowiest on record.

“This is great news for our spring season as we head into the TELUS World Ski & Snowboard Festival kicking off on April 16,” says Stuart Rempel, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Whistler Blackcomb. “With a snow base of close to four metres (over 12 feet), the skiing and riding will be incredible right through to the end of our spring season which extends to May 24. This snow has our terrain parks in top shape, including a new 22-foot halfpipe on Blackcomb, which is being built for the Festival and will remain open to the public afterwards.”

The Environment Canada forecast is calling for more snow over the next couple of days, then sunny skies for the weekend. Close to 100 per cent of Whistler Blackcomb terrain is open, including the Olympic Men’s and Women’s alpine skiing courses. With lift access and plenty of free parking available at Creekside, Whistler Village, Blackcomb Base and Blackcomb Base 2, the mountains are wide open for all to enjoy.

The 15th annual TELUS World Ski & Snowboard Festival kicking off April 16 to 25 gets set to deliver the ultimate after-party after what could only be described as an epic season. This spring-time Festival cranks the energy level up in Whistler several notches when ski resorts around the world are winding down. Daily free outdoor concerts, film, photography, fashion and multimedia events, ski and snowboard contests that set new benchmarks within the industry, and endless nightlife celebrate mountain culture in a way that no other resort does.

Whistler Blackcomb is open for skiing and riding through to May 24 – Whistler Mountain through April 25 and Blackcomb Mountain to May 24.

Whistler Blackcomb Freezes Decade-Low Season Pass Prices

Whistler, BC - Whistler Blackcomb has announced a price freeze on Unlimited Season Pass prices for the 2010/2011 season; the lowest price in a decade. The Adult Unlimited pass will be available for $1,099 if purchased by April 30, 2010. This is the first time passes are available for purchase in the spring, providing even more value to pass holders.
“Last season we had an incredible response to our lowest-price-in-a-decade season pass pricing,” says Stuart Rempel, senior vice president of marketing and sales at Whistler Blackcomb. “The strategy last year was to address a number of unknowns surrounding the Olympics and ensure guests had incredible value with their season pass. The response was incredible; we sold more unlimited season passes last year than the previous year. This showcased to us pass holder’s see significant value with this product and we wanted to maintain this momentum.”

An additional benefit to purchasing this spring includes savings on the introduction of the HST. If purchased before April 30, 2010 the 2010/2011 season pass total cost is $1,154 including five per cent GST. If guests wait, the early bird season pass will cost $1,299 plus 12 per cent HST bringing the total cost to $1,455. Savings are over $300 if purchased by April 30, 2010.

With Record Snowfall and Technical Approval, Whistler Blackcomb and VANOC are Games-Ready

Whistler, BC - With the backdrop of a record snowfall and the blessing of international ski officials, the finishing touches are being applied over the next 16 days to the Olympic alpine ski racing venue. Whistler Blackcomb, host venue for the men's and women's alpine skiing competitions, and consistently rated as one of the top ski and snowboard resorts in the world, is Games-ready -- with an unprecedented 9.9 metres (32 feet) of snow. The first alpine athletes start their training on designated training runs on February 5 and on the Olympic courses on February 10. The first alpine competition is the Men's Downhill on February 13, the first day of Games competition.
"International Olympic Committee delegates recently skied the course and were very pleased with the results," says Tim Gayda, Vice President of Sport, VANOC. "From the beginning of the season, VANOC and Whistler Blackcomb crews have worked hard together to prepare the courses to create a very dense base of snow that involved a massive snowmaking effort. Add to that the incredible amount of natural snow that has fallen in Whistler this season, and we're now ready to deliver an Olympic-class alpine skiing venue that will live up to the reputation that the renowned Dave Murray Downhill course holds the world over. We look forward to debuting the spectacular new woman's course on Franz's Run. VANOC has now taken over the Men's and Women's courses entirely from Whistler Blackcomb ski operations and we're in to the home stretch on our final preparations."

Deep snow at Whistler Blackcomb is not unusual, but reaching the average annual snowfall (10.13 metres/ 33 feet) this early is truly unique. Since snow reporting began in the 1979/80 season, this is the first time that Whistler Blackcomb has received this much snow by the end of January. The prior record was set in 2006/07 when 945 centimetres or 31 feet of snow fell by January 31.
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