The MEGA Cup FIS races were equally successful, attracting a deep field of competitors from across Canada and the United States. Blessed with sunny skies, firm overnight freezes, and outstanding track preparation, athletes enjoyed four days of fair, world-class racing with minimal need for salt despite warm daytime temperatures.

Across two giant slalom races and two slalom races, organizers loaded the lifts at 6 a.m. each morning and completed racing by noon — an impressive operational achievement with fields reaching as many as 240 racers. The efficient schedule and exceptional surface conditions helped many athletes post career-best FIS points to close the season.

The BC Ski Team delivered several standout performances. Fourth-year BCST racer Dylan Stevens  opened the series with victory in the first giant slalom after starting 29th in a field of 122 racers, then added a fifth-place finish the following day. Teammate Baptiste Cais earned two slalom podium finishes, placing second and third across the two-race series.

On the women’s side, Hannah Jensen capped a strong season with a win in the second giant slalom, while also finishing fourth and sixth in slalom competition. Lola Gilbert added a bronze medal in giant slalom and delivered consistent results throughout the week. See the full results below.

“MEGA Camp and the Mega Cup once again demonstrated what is possible when clubs, coaches, volunteers, officials, and resorts come together with a shared commitment to athlete development,” said Anders Hestdalen. “Sun Peaks provided an exceptional stage for competition, and it was fantastic to see so many athletes finish the season performing at a high level.”

A major contributor to the event’s success was the dedicated organizing committee and volunteer team. BC Alpine extends sincere thanks to Wade Rettie (ROC Chair), Jeff Robinson and Graham Cope (Chiefs of Race), Scott Karpiak (Chief of Course), Keven Dubinsky (Chief of Timing), Phyllis Kennedy (Race Administrator), Carmen Kirshenblatt (Technical Delegate), and Gabrielle Fox (Volunteer Coordinator), whose leadership and commitment helped deliver four exceptional days of racing.

Racing opened April 8–9 with U16 super-G under clear blue skies and firm, high-quality surfaces. Athletes, coaches, and supporters then gathered for Opening Ceremonies on April 9th, with a vibrant parade through Whistler Village, where the signature red Whistler Cup jackets were on full display.

Giant slalom and slalom racing followed April 10–11 in continued bluebird conditions, showcasing exceptional performance across all categories. A brief morning shower on April 12 gave way to improving skies and softer spring conditions, adding a final-day challenge that tested adaptability and skill.

Beyond the individual results, the Dual Relay team events from April 10–12 stood out as a defining feature of the week. With randomly selected international teams, athletes connected across countries and cultures, building friendships that extend well beyond the race course.

The week concluded with a celebratory banquet and awards presentation at the Whistler Conference Centre. Hosted by Rob Boyd, the evening featured awards presented by event sponsor O2E Brands, along with prizes from Atomic. The celebration included strong community representation, with World Cup alumni, Jack Crompton (Mayor of Whistler), Belinda Trembath (Whistler Blackcomb COO), and members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police—who added a unique touch by issuing “speeding tickets” for top super-G performances.

Reflecting on the event, Whistler Cup Co-Chairs Rob Boyd and Graham Ross highlighted both the quality of racing and the strength of the volunteer effort, noting the global camaraderie built throughout the week. Duncan Reid, Chair of Whistler Mountain Ski Club, emphasized the spirit of the athletes and the exceptional community support required to deliver an event of this scale.

Organizing Committee:

With leadership from Carmen Kirshenblatt and Colin Pitt-Taylor (Technical Delegates), the event was delivered by a highly coordinated team including Jason Shorter, Josh Douglas, and Jeff Parkhill (Chiefs of Race); Rob Cook, Ryan Duffy, and Josh Sarkis (Chiefs of Course); Mike Berton (Chief of Equipment); Darren Chalmers and Eric Limoges (Chiefs of Slip); Diane Katrusiak, Michelle Douglas, and Dan Hincks (Start Referees); Brigitte Schonner, Kelsey McDermott, and Andrew Kirker (Starters); John Irish, Nicole Stefenelli, Laura Harley, and Duncan Reid (Finish Referees); Henry Voss, Amie Chu, and Bronwyn Damm (Chiefs of Timing); Mirna Kokot and Euan Cormack (Chiefs of Gates); and Jennifer Heyries and Marie-Eve Therrien (Chiefs of Volunteers), supported by an outstanding volunteer team.

BC Alpine wishes to extend a sincere thank you to all volunteers, coaches, families, and partners, including title sponsor O2E Brands, Whistler Blackcomb, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, and the many sponsors who continue to support this internationally recognized event.

All of the event photos, including on- and off-hill, can be found HERE.

After a long season, the Finals arrived with classic spring conditions—bluebird skies, warm sunshine, and fast, consistent snow at Cypress Mountain. From first inspection to final racer, the energy on the hill was high, with athletes, coaches, and volunteers embracing a true celebration of Coast Zone racing (and staying well-equipped with sunscreen and hydration along the way).

Racing took place on Lower Fork–Panorama, where U12 and U14 athletes tackled a full weekend of slalom competition. As with the best development events, the focus extended well beyond results. Athletes were challenged to adapt, reset between runs, and push their limits in a supportive, team-first environment. It’s at this stage where confidence grows, resilience takes shape, and a deeper understanding of racing begins to emerge.

Across the weekend, 120 Top-10 awards were presented, highlighting both strong performances and the inclusive spirit of the event. Just as important were the moments between runs—teammates cheering in the finish, athletes rebounding from tough sections, and shared excitement across clubs. It’s these moments that define the experience and build the foundation for future success.

A big thank you to Thomas Cheng for the incredible photography this season. Check out these beauties!

Behind the scenes, more than 100 volunteers ensured the event ran seamlessly, from course prep and timing to gates and hospitality. Their collective effort created a safe, high-quality race environment and once again demonstrated the strength of the Coast Zone community.

Leading the delivery was Mark Schwenk (Technical Delegate), alongside Kim Mohr (Chief of Race), Perveen Biln (Start Referee), Jocelyn Ramsey (Finish Referee), Vlada Novak (Chief of Gates), Kaveh Afshari (Chief of Timing), Teresa Skelton (Chief of Manual Timing), Ian Campbell (Chief of Course), Josh Good (Chief of Slip), Andrea Tegzes and Andrea Vigna (Race Secretaries), Raul Anguita (Program Director), Tanya Cornelia and Kristina Herder (Chiefs of Volunteers), Eric Roberts (Chief of Hospitality), and Helene Tremblay (Sponsors/Awards/Media).

With strong racing, exceptional conditions, and a full community effort, the 2026 Coast Zone Finals at Cypress were a fitting cap to the season.

– A special thanks to Helene Tremblay for contributions to this story.

More than 150 skiers from Vernon, Apex, Big White, Sun Peaks, and Revelstoke came ready to finish the season strong. Saturday’s GS for the U14 and U16’s delivered speed and intensity, while Sunday’s slalom brought full spring energy. Despite the warmth, the surface held firm thanks to a dedicated course crew that refused to let the conditions win.

The U12 skiers kept the momentum high with two GS runs on Saturday and two SL runs on Sunday (junior and paneled), showcasing strong progression and confidence heading into next season.

This event was a true zone effort, with volunteers from across clubs stepping in at every level – from course prep to timing to finish line energy.

A sincere thank you to all volunteers, coaches, families, and partners, including SilverStar Mountain Resort and Teck, for making this weekend – and the entire season – a success.

Photos: Eva Manuchova

Organizing Committee:
Led by Hugh MacNaught (Technical Delegate), Kim Shippam (Chief of Race), and Carol Main (Race Chair), with key support from Luke Hornhardt (Chief of Course), Rob Skringer (Chief of Timing), Marty Steele (Chief of Gates), Alison Uesson (Race Administration), Allison Goff (Volunteer Coordinator), and Rodger Poole (VSC Program Director), the event was delivered through a strong, collaborative effort across the zone.

Earlier this season, the decision was made in early February to relocate the U14 Provincials from Mt. Washington to Apex. With typically a year of planning required for an event of this scale, the Apex organizing committee and supporting clubs rose to the challenge—delivering a high-quality championship event on a condensed timeline.

Friday kicked off with Team Duals, featuring 28 teams made up of 8–9 athletes from mixed clubs, each led by an assigned coach. Despite above-zero temperatures, rain, and slushy conditions, racers put down strong single runs in a spirited and collaborative format. Off the hill, athletes took part in a scavenger hunt around Apex Village, followed by a well-earned BBQ lunch hosted by The Edge Bistro – bringing athletes and coaches together in a fun, team-focused environment.

Overnight, temperatures dropped, transforming the track and setting up ideal race conditions for the remainder of the weekend.

Saturday featured boy’s slalom on Okanagan and girl’s giant slalom on Old Mill (Dual ROC). Under bluebird skies and below-zero temperatures, athletes were met with firm, consistent surfaces – conditions that allowed for confident skiing and high-level performance across the field.

Sunday delivered more of the same, with boy’s GS on Old Mill and girl’s slalom on Okanagan. The GS track in particular stood out, offering a surface that would rival top-level race venues—one that any World Cup athlete would have appreciated.

This event would not have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of volunteers. With limited lead time, clubs from across the province stepped up in force. A special thank you goes to volunteers from Sun Peaks and Mt. Washington who arrived early on Thursday to assist with venue setup, alongside the many hands who supported throughout the weekend to ensure smooth and safe racing.

Leading the race organizing effort was Michael Johncox (Race Chair), supported by Wally James (Chief of Timing), David Warriner (Chief of Race, Men), Jeff Ellis (Chief of Race, Women), Todd Ring (Chief of Course, Men), Martin Parilak (Chief of Course, Women), Sonja Childs (Chief of Gates, Women), Mark Leng (Chief of Gates, Men), Jenafor Lansel (Race Administrator), and Dave Gill (Chief of Volunteers).

From a rapid turnaround in planning to exceptional race execution, the 2026 U14 Provincials at Apex showcased the strength, collaboration, and resilience of the BC Alpine community.

Across two days, 675 skiers took part in a full schedule of events designed to build skills and foster a love of racing. The program featured dual glalom, speed trap, moguls, jump, obstacle course and a ski cross-style kombi, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for young skiers.

Winter conditions set the stage, with a firm, consistent surface on Friday and sunny skies delivering excellent conditions for Saturday’s events. The combination of a challenging track and a fun, festival atmosphere made for a standout weekend.

Nancy Greene was on site throughout the event, cheering on young skiers, connecting with families and handing out awards—adding to the energy and excitement across the venue. Olympic ski cross gold medallist Ashleigh McIvor was also on hand at the awards ceremony delivery a few words to the skiers and handing out awards.

The festival also delivered its signature off-course moments, with a lively atmosphere that included entertainment and plenty of opportunities for athletes to engage beyond racing.

Overall, the event provided a valuable development opportunity for young skiers, blending competition with fun and community in a uniquely Sun Peaks setting.

Photos by Maria Davis. All event photos can be found here or scroll through a highlight album below.

Organizing Committee: Jeff Robinson (Chief of Festival), Kelly Dye (Chief of Race – Glalom), Dave Gilmour (Chief of Course), Dave Fox (Chief of Events), Gabrielle Fox and Sara Thomson (Race Administration), Gabrielle Fox (Volunteer Coordinator)

BC Alpine congratulates and thanks the incredible event organizers and the Sun Peaks Alpine Club for hosting an outstanding event.

Following heavy rainfall the week prior, cooler temperatures and clear skies provided a turnaround in conditions, allowing for high-quality surface preparation. The event featured a full program, including downhill training and racing, and concluded with FIS-sanctioned giant slalom and slalom races.

“We were proud to deliver a strong FIS series despite early weather challenges,” said Carol Anne Parkhill, Chief of Race (WMSC). “The field was deep, and the volunteer support – especially from the Weasel Workers – created a positive, collaborative environment. We’re excited to build on this and welcome back full speed events next year.”

Rob Boyd acknowledged the resilience of the organizing team and the broader community:

“The weather forced adjustments, but the focus remained on creating a positive experience for athletes. Once conditions improved, the track was exceptional, and the team delivered. It was also great to connect with athletes and coaches off-hill and see strong engagement from visiting programs who are eager to return.”

The event also featured athlete and coach engagement initiatives, including a speed-focused session led by Boyd and Broderick Thompson. Local athletes capitalized on home-hill advantage, with strong performances highlighting the week.

Organizing Committee: Rob Boyd (Race Chair), Carol Anne Parkhill (Chief of Race), Henry Voss (Chief of Timing), Rick Hume (Chief of Course), Vicki Schenk (Race Administration), Jenn Heyries (Chief of Volunteers), Lisa Ferguson (Technical Delegate)

Podium photos by Kevin Heyries. Action photos by Cash Nedelak

Led by BC Ski Team alumni and former World Cup athletes Sam Mulligan and Broderick Thompson, the program kicks off with its inaugural camp at Sun Peaks next month (April 16–18). Sam and Broderick will be joined by Elias Jonsson, national team coach at the camp.

With a fresh name, new look, and plenty of energy behind it, BC-BC builds on the success of the Girls Fast Forward initiative. The goal is simple: bring together U16 male athletes from across the province to ski fast, learn more, and have fun doing it—all while building a clear pathway toward FIS and beyond.

“In our province, we’re incredibly fortunate to have world-class training environments, long winters, and great role models to learn from,” said Thompson. “For me, collaborating with teammates and learning from mentors like Mike Janyk, Robbie Dixon, Manny Osborne, Ben Thomsen, and the Pridy brothers helped shape my path. Programs like this create space for athletes to discover their own way—because there’s no single formula for success.”

Photo: Broderick Thompson (left), Sam Mulligan.

Mulligan sees BC-BC as a natural next step in athlete development.

“Building off the momentum of Girls Fast Forward, BC-BC is about getting athletes together to push themselves, learn from each other, and enjoy the process,” he said. “It’s also a great chance to get some quality spring skiing in and head into summer feeling motivated and focused.”

Camp Details

• Dates: April 16–18 (3-day camp)
• Location: Sun Peaks Resort, BC
• Format: Three-day, development-focused ski camp
• Eligibility: Open to all registered male BC ski racers (born 2010–2012)
• Registration: CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

BC Alpine is also celebrating a milestone in participation across the province.

“We’re thrilled to now see balanced participation between girls and boys at the U16 and FIS levels,” said BC Alpine Vice President Johnny Crichton. “BC-BC is an important step in continuing that momentum—helping elevate athletes and support their development at every stage.”

The day began with a dual glalom fun race, followed by a dinner in the lodge where it all began in 1972 with Lars and Astrid Fossberg. The evening program was led by MC and current club president Falko Kadenbach.

Falko welcomed alumnus Ian Grady, who raced with the club in the 1990s. Ian shared an engaging look at the region’s ski history, tracing its roots through the early ski hills in Wells and Quesnel. Representing a four-generation ski racing family, his perspective highlighted the deep heritage of the sport in the area. More on the Troll Ski Resort history from the Canadian Ski Museum.

The evening continued with club founders John Marien and Kris Dittman, who first envisioned Lightning Creek Ski Club in 1976. John reflected on the club’s early days and growth, while one of the most inspiring moments came from Kris—who is visually impaired—returning to the slopes that day to ski and run gates for the first time in over 20 years, a powerful reminder of skill, trust, and passion for the sport.

John also spoke about the early days of the Nancy Greene Ski League, which laid the foundation for the club’s youth programming, and the strong collaboration with Prince George Ski Club to support athlete development in the North.

Denis Wood, the club’s first Alpine Chair (1984), shared stories from the early racing years, including the introduction of electronic timing, the well-known Troll Downhill, and team travel across the province. His reflections emphasized the passion, commitment, and sense of adventure that defined the era.

Falko then carried the story forward into the early 2000s, recognizing key contributors and acknowledging the challenges that led to a temporary pause in operations from 2003 to 2009.

The club’s revival in 2009, led by John Marien, Dianne and Darrel Dagneau, and a dedicated volunteer group, was highlighted by Mike Sakakibara. He spoke about rebuilding the club’s foundation, including major investments in infrastructure such as the clubhouse (2014), timing systems, safety netting, and equipment—driven by strong leadership and community support.

Bringing the story to present day, Falko emphasized the importance of partnerships with clubs, resorts, sponsors, and provincial programs, as well as the continued development of coaches, officials, and volunteers. He recognized key contributors over the years, including longtime coach Karcsi Peter and past Alpine Chair Michelle Klapatiuk, whose efforts helped shape the club’s success.

The celebration also included video messages from BC Alpine CEO Anders Hestdalen and Olympic gold medallist Nancy Greene, both congratulating Lightning Creek on reaching this milestone.

A special recognition was given to John Marien for his lifelong commitment to the club—as founder, coach, and leader. He was presented with a BC Alpine team jacket and 50-year anniversary memorabilia in honour of his enduring impact.

The evening concluded with an open mic and time to reconnect, as past and present members gathered to celebrate five decades of skiing, community, and shared passion.

Congratulations to the Lightning Creek Ski Club!

Club Merchandise!

HOODIE

MUG

– Thank you to Falko Kadenbach for sending in this report.

BC Alpine, in partnership with Sun Peaks Resort, will hosting this elite training opportunity from April 10–19, 2026. Widely regarded as some of the best training imaginable, this exclusive on-snow opportunity will take place while the mountain is closed to the public, creating an unmatched training environment for athletes and coaches. With spring conditions expected to be optimal, MEGA Camp offers clubs and racers a valuable head start on the 2026–27 season.

BC Alpine MEGA Camp

Athletes will benefit from up to 10 days of exclusive-access ski race training (weather and snow dependent) at a mountain closed to the public, providing racer-only lift access via the Elevation Lift. Training will take place across five varied trails — OSV, Bluff, Cariboo, Lower Chute and 5 Mile — offering diverse terrain and valuable on-snow exposure alongside BC Ski Team athletes and coaches.

• Dates: April 10–19, 2026 (up to 10 days on snow)
• Location: Sun Peaks Resort, British Columbia
• Cost: $100 per day per athlete/coach. (Includes lift access, lane space, and grooming; salt, if required, is additional)
• Eligibility: Open to U12 athletes and older. Daily cap of 250 athletes.
• Format: Glide training, rollers, GS, SL, ski cross start training, free skiing)
• Registration: Sign-up form (Coaches only)
• Lodging Options:
  • Sun Peaks Grand Hotel
  • Cahilty Creek Lodge. Email Calvin Doyle calvin@bearcountry.ca
• Meal Plan: Cahilty Creek: $63.78 with tax and gratuity (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) – Email Kelly Dye –  kellydye13@gmail.com

Girls Fast Forward (GFF)

Back by popular demand, the Girls Fast Forward Camp will once again inspire female-identifying ski racers from across the province with a world-class program led by some of Canada’s fastest athletes—World Cup racers and Olympians Cassidy Gray, Britt Richardson, Kiki Alexander, and others.

• Dates: April 13–15th (3-day ski camp)
• Location: Sun Peaks Resort, British Columbia
• Format: Three day development focussed ski camp.
• Eligibility: Open to all registered female-identifying ski racers from BC, born 2013 and older
• MORE INFO & REGISTRATION

BC Boys Camp (BC-BC)

New to BC Alpine programming this season, the BC Boys Camp is designed to prepare male-identifying ski racers for FIS and beyond, with support from BC Alpine and former national team athletes in an exclusive alpine racing environment.

• Dates: April 16–18th (3-day ski camp)
• Location: Sun Peaks Resort, British Columbia
• Format: Three day development focussed ski camp.
• Eligibility: Open to all registered male ski racers from BC, born 2010–2012.
• Sign-up form: CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

FIS Races (2 GS / 2SL)

• Dates: April 16–19, 2026
• Location: Sun Peaks
• Event details: BCA Calendar Event

BC Ski Team Invitee Camp

• Dates: April 10–19, 2026
• Location: Sun Peaks
• Invitees: Participants will be notified directly by BC Alpine.

Coach Education Courses

• Development Level (DL) Course: April 11-14 @ Sun Peaks
• Performance Level (PL) Course: April 11-14, 2026 @ Sun Peaks