Canada’s alpine ski racers arrived in Whistler following a challenging training exercise that saw them travel more than 800 kilometres on road bikes. The unique bike trip was designed to prepare the athletes for the upcoming World Cup season, including Canadian World Cup events in Lake Louise, AB, Panorama, BC and Whistler, BC.

The journey, which began in Calgary on May 23rd, also helped to build momentum toward the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and showcase the sport and our Canadian athletes to several communities along the way.

“One of the biggest things we’ve learned was the commitment of every athlete to our sport. As a group we’ve shown that we are willing to put in the time and effort to be the best. We’re here to win and we’ll do anything to achieve podium performances,� said World Cup slalom silver medallist Michael Janyk (Whistler, BC).

“The last stage was probably the hardest. Coming home, we were so close — yet so far — with steep climbs ahead. The first day was also quite challenging mentally to get on the bike and start pedaling as snow was falling in Lake Louise,â€? Janyk said. “But it was worth it. We saw some great sights and had a great time in communities we don’t often get to visit, particularly in Jasper and Kamloops. We were able to meet some awesome people throughout the trip.â€?

The ceremony in Whistler – a home away from home for Canadian alpine ski racers – saw the Acting Mayor of the Resort Municipality of Whistler welcome the team after an escorted entry into town. The Whistler Mountain Ski Club welcomed the CAST athletes by hosting a fundraiser barbecue with all being donated to the club.

During the 10-day training event, Canadian ski team athletes biked more than 800 kilometres battling everything from snowfall in the opening leg in Lake Louise to relentless sunshine throughout B.C.’s interior.

A total of 21 Canadian ski team athletes finished the grueling trip and they were joined by national team Para-alpine athletes Matt Hallet (Whistler, BC) and Morgan Perrin (Vancouver, BC) as well as the 2007 World Championships silver medallist Jan Hudec (Calgary, AB) for the final stage from Lillooet to Whistler.

Cyclists on the ride included most of the 2008 team, including Michael Janyk, Manuel Osborne-Paradis, Scott Barrett, John Kucera, Emily Brydon (Fernie, BC) and Kelly VanderBeek.

For more info: canski.org

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