Sept 11 Adventure Ranch in Pemberton  arrival 3 -6  dinner at 6:30

Please join us for Murray's delicious BBQ dinner Sept 11th  along with Silent Auction, dancing, and live music by local artist Dawn Walsh. Enjoy volleyball, soccer, bocce, horseshoe pit, pool, campfire, and time spent outdoors with friends and supporters at the Adventure Ranch in Pemberton at the foot of beautiful Mt Currie.

Tickets are $30.00 per person, kids under 12 $20,  $100.00 per family of 4 or more and are available at the door. Little ones are free and welcome!

Lucky Horseshoe cash bar.

Now entering FIS, funds raised will help Charley get the coaching she needs to continue with her ski racing goals.

Charley would also like a portion of the funds raised to go to the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program so that these families have the chance to enjoy the mountains as well.

If you are able to donate items for the silent auction that would be appreciated, please email us at fieldfour@shaw.ca  604-894-6954

Please email us or call us  and let us know that you can attend so we can make plans to have a great time together!

Look forward to seeing you there!  All the best Tricia, Murray, Charley and Jacob

 

ALPINE CANADA ALPIN

For Immediate Release

CANADIAN PARA-ALPINE SKI TEAM STARTING ON-SNOW PREPARATION FOR THE 2011 IPC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Nine athletes will be hitting the snow with a new team of coaches

CALGARY, AB (September 2nd, 2010) – The Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team (CPAST) is back on snow in Chile, spending time focusing on both technical and speed events in preparation for the IPC World Cup season and the 2011 IPC World Alpine Championships in Sestriere, ITA.

Karolina Wisniewska (Ottawa, ON), two-time bronze medalist at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, will be part of the nine athletes attending the training camp in Valle Nevado, CHI over the next two weeks.

“After my success at the Paralympics, I want to get back to basics a bit this season: focus on technique again and just really have fun skiing,” said Wisniewska. “That said, this is also a World Championship season and they'll be taking place in Sestriere, which happens to be one of my favourite tracks. So I am really looking forward to the World Championships and hoping to peak there in January.”

Wisniewska, the first Canadian Olympic or Paralympic athlete to win four medals at a single Games at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games is looking forward to working with some of the new coaches.

“I find it is always like that the season after the Paralympics, there are always a lot of changes. But I think it's great. I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone in Chile and seeing how this "new" team works together,” added Wisniewska.

Brianne Law, CPAST Athletic Director said that the camp in Valle Nevado would be like many other first-of-the-season camps, as the team hasn’t skied together since the season ended last March after the TELUS Para-Alpine Ski Championships in Mt. Washington.

“After some well deserved down time following our biggest season ever, the athletes have all been training close to home during the summer, so it will be good to get everyone back together again.  In talking with all the athletes and staff, it is encouraging for me to see that everyone is so excited to get back on snow after the break and hard work in the gym over the summer months,” said Law.

Two members of last year’s IPC World Cup coaching staff Sven Pouliot (Québec, Qc) and Sébastien Michel (Mont-Tremblant, QC) are back with the team this year. Two new members were added to the team as last year’s development coach Lasse Ericsson (Kimberley, BC) and newcomer Jocelyn Huot (Sainte Marguerite-du-Lac-Masson, QC) will join the staff team for the 2010/11 season. 

“This camp officially marks the start of the new Paralympic cycle, so it is exciting to have everyone training together in the same location. We will be introducing new coaches and staff to the athletes, and as well this will be the first on-snow camp that Chris Williamson and his guide Robin will ski together. It will be interesting to see how their on-snow relationship builds,” added Law.

Another new addition to the camp will be the fact that some Para-Alpine Development Team athletes will be attending the camp.

“In our attempt to increase the amount of energy and resources identifying the next wave of talent that will be potential future Paralympian Champions, we’ve brought the development team closer to the World Cup team and have them training together in some preseason training. This is the first time our team has done this, and I am excited to see how those athletes will respond to the camp,” described Law. 

The 2011 season will be highlighted by IPC Para-Alpine World Championships beginning January 12th in Sestriere, ITA, the site of the 2006 Paralympic Winter Games. The TELUS Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Championships are scheduled to take place in Kimberley, BC in March.

The CPAST Team is coming off a season in which it won 13 of the host nation’s 19 medals at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver / Whistler, BC, beating a team record (12) achieved in Nagano, JPN in 1998 and Salt Lake City, USA in 2002.

ROSTER CHILE TRAINING CAMP

Name (Residence) Category

Christopher Williamson, Markham ON, B 3

Josh Dueck, Vernon BC, LW 11

Karolina Wisniewska, Vancouver BC, LW 3

Kirk Shorenstein, Edmonton, AB, LW 6/8-2

Matthew Hallat, Whistler BC, LW 2

Morgan Perrin, Whistler BC, LW 3

Robin Femy, Quebec, QC, Guide

DEVELOPMENT GROUP

Name (Residence) Category

Melanie Schwartz, Toronto, ON, LW 2

Sam Danniels, Whistler, BC, LW 10-1

Follow Canada’s Alpine Ski Teams on Facebook and Twitter.

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INFORMATION:

Sophie Pilon

Coordinator, PR and Media /

Coordonatrice, Relations publiques et média

Alpin Canada
T: 403-777-3650

C : 403-815-7340

spilon@canski.org

www.canski.org

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

ALPINE CANADA ALPIN

Pour diffusion immédiate

L'ÉQUIPE CANADIENNE DE SKI PARA-ALPIN AMORCE SES PRÉPARATIFS SUR NEIGE EN VUE D'UNE SAISON REHAUSSÉE PAR LES CHAMPIONNATS MONDIAUX CIP 2011

Neuf athlètes déferleront les pistes avec une équipe de nouveaux entraîneurs à leurs côtés

CALGARY, AB (2 septembre 2010) – L'Équipe canadienne de ski para-alpin (ÉCSPA) est de retour sur neige au Chili investissant principalement son temps sur les épreuves techniques et de vitesse en vue de la Coupe du monde CIP et des Championnats mondiaux de ski alpin CIP 2011 qui auront lieu à Sestrieres, ITA.

Karolina Wisniewska (Ottawa, ON), deux fois médaillée de bronze aux Jeux paralypiques d'hiver de 2010 à Vancouver fera partie du contingent de neuf athlètes prenant part au Camp à Valle Nevado, CHI, au cours des deux prochaines semaines.  

"Suite à mon succès aux Jeux paralympiques, je veux revenir cette saison aux bases un peu et me concentrer sur la technique tout en m'amusant à skier," de dire Wisniewska. "Ceci étant dit, il s'agit également d'une saison comportant des Championnats du monde et ils seront présentés à Sestriere, un endroit qui est de mes sites de compétition préférés.  J'ai donc très hâte aux Championnats du monde et j'espère être au summum de ma forme en janvier."

Wisniewska est la première athlète canadienne olympique ou paralympique à remporter quatre médailles lors de mêmes Jeux, exploit obtenu à Salt Lake City en 2002 et elle se dit ravie de travailler avec de nouveaux entraîneurs.  

"Je crois que c'est toujours ainsi après une saison paralympique, beaucoup de changements sont apportés.  C'est néanmoins formidable.  J'ai hâte de voir tout le monde au Chili et découvrir comment cette "nouvelle" équipe travaillera ensemble, " d'ajouter Wisniewska.

Brianne Law, Directrice sportive de l'ÉCSPA a mentionné que le camp de Valle Nevado ressemblerait à plusieurs autres camps pré-saison alors que l'équipe n'a pas skié en groupe  depuis la fin de la saison en mars après la tenue des Championnats de ski para-alpin TELUS au Mt Washington.  

"Après un repos bien mérité suite à la plus importante saison de notre histoire, les athlètes se sont tous entraînés très fort chez eux pendant l'été et il sera bénéfique de tous les avoir ensemble de nouveau.  Pour avoir discuté avec tous les athlètes et membres du personnel, il est encourageant pour moi de constater que nous sommes tous excités à l'idée de revenir sur neige après la pause et le dur labeur au gym qui a été la réalité des mois d'été," de poursuivre  Law.

Deux membres de l’équipe d’entraîneur en Coupe du monde IPC de la saison dernière Sven Pouliot (Québec, Qc) et Sébastien Michel (Mont-Tremblant, QC) sont de retour avec l’équipe cette année. Deux nouveaux membres seront ajoutés à l’équipe alors que l’ancien entraîneur de l’équipe de développement Lasse Ericsson (Kimberley, BC) et un nouveau venu Jocelyn Huot (Sainte Marguerite-du-Lac-Masson, QC) se joindront à l’équipe pour la saison 2010/11.

"Ce camp marque officiellement le début du nouveau cycle paralympique et nous sommes enchantés de voir tous les acteurs s'entraîner ensemble au même endroit.  Nous présenterons les nouveaux entraîneurs et membres du personnel aux athlètes lors de ce camp qui inaugurera également les premiers essais de Chris Williamson et de son nouveau guide Robin qui skieront désormais ensemble.   Il sera aussi intéressant de voir la chimie qui s'installera entre eux," de compléter Law.   

Un nouvel élément a été ajouté au camp puisque les athlètes de l'équipe de ski para-alpin de développement seront présents.  

"Dans notre tentative de hausser l'énergie et les ressources visant à identifier la prochaine vague de talents détenant un potentiel de futurs champions paralympiens, nous avons cru qu'il serait bon que l'équipe de développement se rapproche de l'équipe de Coupe du monde et que tous les athlètes puissent s'entraîner ensemble lors de préparatifs d'avant saison.   C'est une première pour notre équipe et nous sommes confiants que ces athlètes répondront positivement à cette approche au camp," d'expliquer Law.   

La saison 2011 sera rehaussée par les Championnats du monde de ski para-alpin CIP dès le 12 janvier à Sestriere, ITA, site des Jeux paralympiques d'hiver de 2006.  Les Championnats canadiens de ski para-alpin TELUS sont au programme en mars à Kimberley, CB.

L'ÉCSPA sort d'une saison couronnée de 13 des 19 médailles décernées par la nation hôte aux Jeux paralympiques d'hiver 2010 à Vancouver / Whistler, CB, battant le record de l'équipe qui était de 12 à Nagano, JPN en 1998 et à Salt Lake City ,ÉU, en 2002.

GROUPE DU CAMP D'ENTRAÎNEMENT AU CHILI

NOM (Résidence) Classe

Christopher Williamson, Markham ON, B 3

Josh Dueck, Vernon BC, LW 11

Karolina Wisniewska, Vancouver BC, LW 3

Kirk Shorenstein, Edmonton, AB, LW 6/8-2

Matthew Hallat, Whistler BC, LW 2

Morgan Perrin, Whistler BC, LW 3

Robin Femy, Quebec, QC, Guide

GROUPE DE DÉVELOPPEMENT

NOM (Résidence) Classe

Melanie Schwartz, Toronto, ON, LW 2

Sam Danniels, Whistler, BC, LW 10-1

Suivez les Équipes de ski alpin du Canada via Facebook et Twitter.

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INFORMATION:

Sophie Pilon

Coordinator, PR and Media /

Coordonatrice, Relations publiques et média

Alpin Canada
T: 403-777-3650

C : 403-815-7340

spilon@canski.org

www.canski.org

The WSF and the IPC have collaborated in a series of spring meetings to accelerate the inclusion of snowboarding into the Paralympic Winter programme. As a result of the partnership, what was know as “Adaptive Snowboarding” will now be called “Para-Snowboarding”.

Canada’s Danny’s Buntain will play a key role in the collaboration and has moved to Europe to manage Para-Snowboarding at the international level. Her new title at the WSF says it all: Chairperson, Para-Snowboard Sport Technical Committee. Congratulations Danny!

IPC and WSF sign a Memorandum of Understanding

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the World Snowboard Federation (WSF) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-operate during the 2010-2011 season to further develop the sport of Para-Snowboard.

The MoU covers several areas around management, competition co-ordination, development and certification of officials and classifiers as well as media and communications.

The MoU also contemplates the possibility to extend this co-operation until the 2013-2014 season.

Founder Julia Cochrane is currently in the planning stages of launching a locals' discount card allowing residents of Whistler to earn access to special store discounts.

Cochrane has recently spent time contacting not-for-profit and charity groups in Whistler to feel out their potential interest, and starting next week she plans to approach businesses with the idea.

Residents would be able to learn about special discounts and events through the program's website, whistlerlocalcard.com, as well as through social media outlets Twitter, Facebook or weekly e-mails. Participating local businesses featuring a storefront will receive a green sticker alerting residents they belong to the program.

Prices charged to for-profit businesses will range from $199 to $1,500 to be part of the program.

Cochrane said during the first year of the card in Park City, Utah, the locals program resulted in nearly $4.8 million in sales revenue for businesses. About $1.8 million was passed back to locals in discounts.

Noting the success of the card, it has been introduced throughout several communities in the United States, including Aspen, Vail, Boulder, Palm Springs, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz and Monterey. Plans are in the works to expand the card to the Netherlands and Australia.

To further reach out to the community, Cochrane has decided to let nonprofits and charity groups sign up for the program for free. The groups can then use her advertising venues to promote their programs and events.

So far, the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program (WASP) and the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Sea to Sky Chapter have agreed to participate, said Cochrane.

While other local card programs have been tried in Whistler in the past, but none have been successful, Cochrane believes with strategic use of social media, that the card can be a smash hit.

 http://www.theskichannel.com/news/skinews/20100624/Whistler-locals-about-to-be-hooked-up-through-discount-card-program

For Immediate Release

RETIREMENTS CREATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN CANADA’S PARA-ALPINE SKI TEAM

National para-alpine ski team seeks guides as off-season training approaches

CALGARY, AB (May 20, 2010) – The retirement of two Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team guides following the end of the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games has created openings for new athletes to start a career with the national ski team.

CPAST Athletic Director Brianne Law said the search for able-bodied guides has begun for para-alpine ski racers Chris Williamson (Markham, ON), 2010 IPC World Cup Overall Champion and Viviane Forest (Edmonton, AB), who captured five medals at the 2010 Paralympics in Whistler, BC.

Law said both guides will ideally be selected by the time off-season training begins in June 24 in Whistler, BC in order to begin preparing for the 2010-2011 IPC World Cup season.

“Chris and Viviane have had tremendous success as para-alpine skiers throughout their career and both have made a commitment to continue ski racing. This is a unique opportunity really, to step in as a guide to either of these athletes and be presented with an opportunity to achieve a high-level of success,” Law said.

Forest, guided most of the last two seasons by Lindsay Debou (Whistler, BC), won five medals at the 2010 Paralympics including gold in the women’s visually impaired downhill. The 31-year-old Forest, who is a Paralympic gold medalist in both the Summer and Winter Games, was born with an estimated five per cent vision.

Williamson is a multiple Paralympic medalist who narrowly missed a medal in 2010, finishing fourth in the giant slalom with his guide Nick Brush (Panorama BC). Williamson, 38, won a IPC World Championship title in the super-G in 2009 with Brush and they were Canadian slalom champions last season. They also won the overall IPC World Cup Crystal Globe twice in the last three seasons. Williamson, who was guided by Brush for the past three seasons, has had about six per cent vision since birth.

Debou and Brush both retired following the conclusion of the TELUS Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Championships in March.

“Lindsay and Nick are two great skiers and excellent guides who had a positive impact on the team. Their focus and commitment to training was an important part of the success achieved by Viv and Chris in the last few years,” said Law, who along with Forest was awarded a $10,000 grant for coach development through Chevrolet's Making Dreams Possible Program just last week.

Experience ski racing at the FIS-level is required to be a guide on the national para-alpine ski team. As a member of the national team, a guide can expect to race and train in Canada, Europe, Asia and various locations in the Southern Hemisphere. Guides are also eligible for funding under the Sport Canada Athlete Assistance Program.

The CPAST team captured 13 of the host nations 19 medals at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, led by a record setting five gold medal performance from Lauren Woolstencroft’s (North Vancouver BC). The CPAST team also won the overall Nation’s Cup title for the first time in its history in 2009.

Forest, a resident of Edmonton, AB, was also named as the Global Woman of Vision recipient for that city this month. The monthly Global TV feature honours women who improve their community and inspire other women.

The CPAST summer training team will be announced next month.

ABOUT ALPINE CANADA ALPIN

Alpine Canada Alpin (ACA) is the governing body for alpine ski racing in Canada with more than 50,000 athletes, coaches, officials and volunteer members and over 200,000 supporting members. ACA manages the high performance programs for the athletes of the Canadian Alpine Ski Team and the Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team who represent Canada throughout the world. For more information on Alpine Canada Alpin, visit www.canski.org.

Follow Canada’s Alpine Ski Teams on Facebook and Twitter.

- 30 -

INFORMATION:

Sophie Pilon

Coordinator, PR and Media /

Coordonatrice, Relations publiques et média

Alpin Canada
T: 403-777-3650

C : 403-815-7340

spilon@canski.org

www.canski.org

Delta Whistler Village Suites and Tantalus Lodge “Raise the Roof” for charity

2^nd Annual Fundraiser to benefit Habitat for Humanity and the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program

Whistler BC, May 4, 2010 – The Delta Whistler Village Suites and the Tantalus Lodge will host the second annual “Raise the Roof” fundraiser at Buffalo Bills on June 4^th, 2010.  All of the proceeds raised during this fun, high energy event will benefit the Habitat for Humanity and the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program.

“The Delta Whistler Village Suites and Tantalus Lodge have really gone above and beyond in organizing another amazing fundraiser for the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program,” said Chelsey Walker, Whistler Adaptive Sports Program’s Executive Director.  “Between the high energy musical line up of Bluesberry Jam and the funds that will be raised through the amazing auction items, their staff and supporters are making a positive difference in the lives of individuals with a disability, both living in and visiting the community of Whistler.”

“It is so important for the hotel to give back to the community in where we work and play.  Whistler Adaptive Sports Program has been an integral part of the fabric that makes up Whistler and we feel privileged and honored to support and partner with them” said Peter Catarino, General Manager of the Delta Whistler Village Suites.

With the support of key players including Buffalo Bills and Mountain FM, The Delta Whistler Village Suites and Tantalus Lodge have actively been raising funds for Habitat for Humanity and the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program over the last year.  To date, they have raised $11,171.00. This year’s event will run from 4:30pm to 7:30pm and feature the Squamish based Bluesberry Jam with its mix of blues, classic R&B and rock favourites.  The silent auction features something for everyone including donations from Arc’teryx, Helly Hansen; numerous hotel stays at Delta’s across the country, Four Seasons, Fairmont, and Westin; prints from Cori Ross, Blake Jorgenson and Karen Love, gift certificates to restaurants such as Hy’s, Crepe Montagne, Elephant & Castle and Ingrid’s; golf packages from the Chateau Whistler, Nicklaus North and Whistler Golf Course; fun Whistler based activities from Whistler Outdoor Adventures, Summit Sport and Whistler Blackcomb; and many other items such as a king sized bed from Simmons Canada, Scandinave Spa and Nesters dollars to name a few. 

“The Whistler Adaptive Sports Program is an essential part of the Whistler community and we are all proud to be associated with such a great organization” said Mike Kohari, General Manager of the Tantalus Lodge in Whistler.

“The community contribution and support by the Delta Whistler Village Suites and the Tantalus Lodge goes well beyond the Raise the Roof Fundraiser,” continued Chelsey Walker, Executive Director of the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program.  “Both hotels and staff are tremendously generous with their volunteer time and in-kind donations to the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program.  All of the funds raised on June 4^th, 2010 will be directed into our building fund to construct the Jeff Harbers Adaptive Sports Centre on Whistler Mountain.  Named for Jeff Harbers, a great supporter of the Whistler-Blackcomb Foundation and the first President of the American Friends of Whistler, the new Centre will create a major legacy for adaptive sport in Whistler.”

About the new Jeff Harbers Adaptive Sport Centre at Whistler-Blackcomb

The proposed Jeff Harbers Adaptive Sports Centre at Whistler-Blackcomb is a two story, stand-alone building at mid-station on Whistler Mountain and will replace the current WASP Equipment Centre provided by the Rotary Club of Whistler in 2000.  It is an open, welcoming, accessible facility that would be used by the participants in the Whistler Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program, as well as WASP’s Hiking and Para-Alpine Ski Racing programs.  The upper floor will be used for program services, while the lower floor would be used for additional storage and maintenance.  The plans for the new facility will allow for many more years of significant growth by the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program. 

About Delta Hotels and Resorts

A leading Canadian hotel management company, Delta Hotels and Resorts operates and franchises a diversified portfolio with 44 full-service, city centre and airport hotels and resorts under the Delta brand. Widely regarded as Canada’s “brand of choice” by guests and owners, Delta Hotels also distinguishes itself as an exemplary employer. It is the only hotel company to have been recognized for its sustained focus on business excellence by the prestigious National Quality Institute with three Canada Awards for Excellence, including the award program’s highest honour, the Order of Excellence (2007). The company also consistently ranks as one of the country’s best employers in The Globe and Mail’s Report on Business annual “50 Best Employers” list (2001–2003, 2005–2009). As well, its Corporate Social Responsibility platform, Delta Helps, includes a chain-wide commitment to the communities we serve through our national partnership with Habitat for Humanity Canada, participation in the Hotel Association of Canada’s Green Key Eco-Rating program, and our work with various other charitable groups. For more information, visit www.deltahotels.com.

About Whistler Adaptive Sports Program

Whistler Adaptive Sports Program is a not-for-profit society that provides year-around, sports and recreational programs for people of all ages with disabilities. We are a centre for learning, therapeutic programs and sports excellence that has a local, regional, national and international clientele and we encourage independence, self-confidence and self-motivation for all of our athletes and participants through outdoor recreation.

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For further information please contact:

Chelsey Walker, Executive Director, WASP, 604-905-4493, cwalker@whistleradaptive.com

Jackie Fulton, Director of Sales and Marketing, Delta Whistler Village Suites, jfulton@deltahotels.com

NOTICE OF RACE

Saturday, April 17, 2010

WHISTLER ADAPTIVE SPORTS PROGRAM

SANCTIONED BY:         Disabled Skiers Association of B.C.

SPONSORS:                TELUS, Rotary Club of Whistler, Whistler Mountain Ski Club, Delta Whistler Village Suites and  
                                Whistler-Blackcomb

DATE:                        Saturday, April 17, 2010

RACE RULES:              IPC and F.I.S. rules with local modifications. ASD Handicap System and 2009-2010 ASD Time 
                                Factors will be used. Flexible poles will be used.  Helmets mandatory.

ENTRY DEADLINE:       Tuesday, April 13, 2010, 4:00 PM, WASP Office, Whistler, B.C.

ENTRY FEE:                $25 per racer must accompany the Entry Form by the Deadline. Cheques payable to 
                                Whistler Adaptive Sports Program or payment can be made online at www.whistleradaptive.com and  
                               clicking on “Store”

ENTRIES:                  Submitted on WASP Entry Form attached with this Notice. Entry Form must be signed by  
                               person responsible for submitting it. Mail original forms with entry fees to:                    
                               Chelsey Walker, Race Chair                    phone  (604) 905-4493                                                                                  WASP, Box 708, Whistler, BC V0N 1B0

                              Or email to cwalker@whistleradaptive.com

LIFT TICKETS:          Special lift tickets for: Racers, Coaches, Racer Assistants, & Race Workers.

RACE MEETING         Friday, April 16, 2010, 7:00 PM (sharp)  Race Rules, Draw and Bib Toss at (Location TBC),
                             Whistler,B.C. All Racers, Coaches and Assistants welcome.

REGISTRATION:       Saturday, April 17, 7:45AM to 9:15AM.                                                                                                                    Sign-in, pick-up lift tickets and Bibs at Whistler Adaptive Sports Program Essentially Blackcomb
                             Patio,Mountain Square, Whistler, BC.

LIABILITY WAIVER:  All Racers must sign standard Liability Waiver forms. Participants under age 18 must have
                             Parent/Guardian consent.

PRESENTATIONS:     Saturday, April 17th, 5:00PM at Location TBC, Whistler, BC.

SOCIAL EVENT:        Immediately following Presentations a banquet, location TBD.  Banquet tickets included in race entry
                             fee. Additional tickets for coaches and friends/family can be purchased for $25.00

RACE COMMITTEE:      Race Chair - Chelsey Walker
                                Chief of Race                John Walker                                                                              
                                Chief of Course             Sheila Walker                                                                          
                                Chief of Gate Judges      Roy Strickland                                                                             
                                Chief of Timing             David Oakes                                                                            
                                Chief of Administration   Suki Cheyne                              

2010.63

ADAPTIVE SNOWBOARDING EYES PARALYMPICS

Ten countries gather in Whistler to discuss the future of the sport

(Whistler, BC – March 22, 2010) Representatives from sport organizations in ten countries met on Friday evening to discuss the future of adaptive snowboarding and its potential addition to the program of the Paralympic Winter Games. The reception, which was hosted by Canada~Snowboard at the Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler, B.C., was held to promote and increase awareness for the sport of adaptive snowboarding and to identify steps which needed to be undertaken to gain Paralympic inclusion.

“The reception exceeded our expectations. There was a lot of positive interest, good questions, and comments from the different nations,” said Tom McIllfaterick, Chief Executive Officer of Canada~Snowboard.

Canada~Snowboard has led the development of adaptive snowboarding over the past five years, working to expand the sport both domestically and internationally. McIllfaterick and other Canada~Snowboard officials made a short presentation during the reception, providing information on adaptive snowboarding that touched on areas of coaching, classification, events, international development, and objectives and directions for upcoming years. Guests then had the remainder of the evening to connect and discuss the future of the sport.

Mike Fisher and Tyler Mosher, two of Canada’s Adaptive Snowboard National Team athletes, were also in attendance at the reception. A dual sport athlete, Tyler, competed in the just-concluded Paralympic Winter Games in para-nordic skiing. He is also the current World Champion in adaptive snowboarding.

Canada, one of the leaders in the sport, hosted the first ever Adaptive Snowboarding World Cup in Whistler in 2008. Other countries currently involved in the sport include the United States, New Zealand, the Netherlands, and Australia, but participants in the discussion acknowledged that involvement will have to expand to more countries for inclusion in the Paralympic Games program to be achieved.

“There are a number of steps Canada~Snowboard is taking to include adaptive snowboarding in the Paralympics.  We will continue to host World Cup events like the one coming up in Mont-Tremblant and continue to work with other countries around the world to build capacity for the sport.  We will also refine the sport’s rules and procedures so that they fully meet the standards of the International Paralympic Committee,” added McIllfaterick. “We believe that it is possible for Adaptive Snowboarding to appear at the Paralympic Winter Games as early as 2014.”

The Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver have propelled the movement for adaptive snowboarding’s inclusion. Zack Beaumont, a fifteen year old adaptive snowboarder from the Vancouver area, had a feature role in the opening ceremonies by lighting the Paralympic Cauldron. The legacy of the 2010 Paralympics includes both increased passion in young athletes like Zack, who dreams of one day competing in his sport at the Paralympic Games, and new resources that will help athletes achieve their goals.

The Whistler Athletes’ Centre, set to open in June 2010 is part of this legacy. The Centre will cater to high performance and development sport groups with strength and conditioning resources and accommodations. The building is fully accessible and will include features such as accessible washrooms, showers, and an elevator to access the upper floor.

“The Whistler Adaptive Sports Program is really excited to be working with Canada~Snowboard on the development of adaptive snowboarding,” said Chelsey Walker, Executive Director of the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program that will have headquarters in the new centre. “The Whistler Athletes’ Centre, and our presence within it, the inclusion of enhanced adaptive sport training opportunities, including those for snowboarding, will have a significant impact on the future development of Paralympic Sport.”

What’s next?

The World’s best adaptive riders will converge on Mont-Tremblant, QC, on April 2nd as Canada hosts the World Snowboard Federation 2010 Adaptive Snowboard World Cup.

About Adaptive Snowboarding

Adaptive snowboarding refers to a modified version of the sport, with changes in equipment, rules, and technical specifications that enable persons with physical disabilities to participate in both recreational and competitive activities.

Adaptive snowboard events are held for male and female athletes with physical disabilities such as spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, amputation, or visual impairments. Athletes compete based on their functional ability, allowing athletes with different disabilities to compete against each other.

The Canadian Adaptive Snowboard Program consists of athlete development camps, adaptive snowboarding competitions, training opportunities for coaches, and training materials for coaches and officials. Canada~Snowboard also manages the world’s first Adaptive Snowboarding National Team.

For more info on the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program and Whistler Athlete’s Centre visit http://www.whistleradaptive.com/Resources.ubr.

-- Canada~Snowboard --

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ABOUT CANADA~SNOWBOARD

Canada~Snowboard is the governing body for the sport of snowboarding in Canada. Committed to high performance excellence in World Cup, World Championships, and Olympic Winter Games competition, Canada~Snowboard provides a wide range of programs and support services based on established principles of long term athlete development, for all levels of snowboarding ability. For more information on the services and programs offered by Canada~Snowboard, please visit: www.canadasnowboard.ca.

But what made my day the most memorable was what my ski partner and hundreds of others climbing Spanky's Ladder saw that Saturday afternoon. It was the group in front of us slowly making their way up Spanky's for some freshies of their own. What made this group so remarkable was that everyone there was working extra hard to get up that damn ladder... because one guy was in a sit ski. That's right, a sit ski.

There were times when he was sideways, times when we thought he was going to start going back downhill and times when we thought everyone else behind him was going to go down too. But thanks to the efforts of everyone there, including anybody around who could help by carrying skis, poles, etc., the gang made it to the top safe and sound. Talk about getting a group pumped up - there were cheers galore as the whole crowd got carried away in the spirit of what it means to get out there and play.

So I just wanted to say thanks to the guy in the sit ski and thanks to everyone who made it happen - you've truly inspired me. Maybe you guys do this all the time but it was a first for me to witness what will be one of the most memorable events I have seen on the mountains and here in Whistler.

Cindy Bonnell

Whistler

2010/01/28

Vancouver, B.C. - 2010 Legacies Now in partnership with the Province of British Columbia is pleased to provide $40,080 to 21 community sport projects. 2010 Legacies Now is making sport more accessible for people throughout the province by supporting projects ranging from the development of a speed skating program for at-risk youth in Kamloops to the launch of a girls' skateboarding program in Armstrong.

Sharon Garcia, Community Programmer, Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation Commission, said they want to encourage more girls to use the skateboard park, where 99 per cent of participants are currently male. "The goal of the Skateboarding for Girls program is to encourage girls to try skateboarding and/or build their confidence level. It would be great to see more of the female population enjoying the skateboard park as it is a hub for most kids March to November."

These grants are made available through the Local Sport Program Development Fund (LSDF), funded by 2010 Legacies Now with support from the Province of B.C. through the Ministry of Healthy Living and Sport. The LSDF provides people of all abilities more opportunities to access sport by funding programs initiated by municipalities, sport organizations and Aboriginal communities.

"This funding truly brings all British Columbians together, giving everyone the opportunity to keep active within their own communities," said Ida Chong, Minister of Healthy Living and Sport. "New equipment, coaching theories and sporting clinics are just a few of the areas this funding will be put towards. Whether it is a team or individual sport, these programs create a welcoming environment, helping people boost their self-confidence in a supportive, fun atmosphere."

Projects that received funding address a gap in programming, demonstrate an ability to draw new participants, provide leadership opportunities and are sustainable over the long-term. Organizations receive up to $2,000 to develop new, or enhance existing, programs that encourage greater participation and access to sport. A list of communities and organizations that received funding include:

• Armstrong - Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation Commission (Skateboarding for Girls)
• Ashcroft - Ashcroft and District Curling Club (Equipment for Novice Curlers)
• Bella Coola - Active Communities Bella Coola (The Fitness Room)
• Burns Lake - Burns Lake Mountain Bike Association (Leadership through Mountain Biking)
• Burns Lake - Village of Burns Lake (Recreation Rocks – Broomballin' It!)
• Campbell River - Storey Creek Golf & Recreation Society (Junior Golf Program: SNAG)
• Coal Harbour - Coal Harbour Community Club (Raincoast Aikiaki)
• Cranbrook - Special Olympics BC - Kimberley/Cranbrook (Active Start)
• Kamloops - Kamloops Long Blades Speed Skating Club (Speed On Ice for all Program)
• Kamloops - T'Kemlups Indian Band (T'Kemlups Snowboard Team)
• Langley - Special Olympics BC, Langley (Active Start)
• Masset - Queen Charlotte Islands Regional Recreation Commission (Coaching Theory)
• New Westminster - New Westminster Junior Salmonbellies Sports Foundation (Promoting Lacrosse to Youth)
• Prince George - Prince George Triathlon Club (Train to Tri)
• Sechelt - Sunshine Coast Regional District Parks and Recreation Division (Girls on the Move)
• Smithers - Smithers Junior Softball Society (SJS League Development Program)
• Vancouver - Inner City Moresports (Britannia Swim/Run)
• Vancouver - MoreSports Hastings Hub (MoreSports Smash Badminton)
• Victoria - Songhees First Nation (Sport Leadership Through Officiating)
• Whistler - Whistler Adaptive Sports Program (Adaptive Nordic Program)
• White Rock - Semiahmoo Minor Lacrosse (Kids Rock! Lacrosse Recruitment and Mentorship Program)

"There are many benefits to helping youth and others throughout B.C. join sport and recreation opportunities in their own backyards," said Tom Walker, Director of Sport Participation at 2010 Legacies Now. "This contributes to better health, learning to set personal and team goals and it builds a positive community network of support."

Since the LSDF launched in 2008, it has contributed nearly $160,000 to support 79 community projects and new sport opportunities for people of all ages throughout B.C. For more information about the program, visit www.2010LegaciesNow.com/local_sport_development_fund/.

For more information about the recipients and their projects, view the Fact Sheet.

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For more information contact:
Karen Lee
Manager, Communications
2010 Legacies Now
778-331-8647
klee(at)2010LegaciesNow.com

About 2010 Legacies Now
2010 Legacies Now is a not-for-profit society that works in partnership with community organizations, non-government organizations, the private sector and all levels of government to develop sustainable legacies in sport and recreation, healthy living, arts, literacy, accessibility and volunteerism. 2010 Legacies Now actively assists communities to discover and create inclusive social and economic opportunities leading up to, and beyond, the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.  For more information, please visit www.2010LegaciesNow.com and www.2010andBeyond.ca.