Olympic Gold Medalist Maelle Ricker to Receive Whistler Blackcomb Lifetime Season Pass Friday, November 19; Whistler Mountain’s Open Day (19-Nov-10)

Whistler Mountain opens tomorrow, Friday, November 19 and to kick off the season Maelle Ricker...

WHISTLER, BC, November 18, 2010 – Whistler Mountain opens tomorrow, Friday, November 19 and to kick off the season Maelle Ricker, local gold medal Olympian in snowboard cross, will receive a lifetime season pass from Whistler Blackcomb and “first ride up” the Whistler Village Gondola.

Media Photo and Interview Opportunity

Where: Skier’s Plaza, base of Whistler Mountain near the Whistler Village Gondola

When: 7:45 to 8:15 am on Friday, November 19

What: Dave Brownlie presenting Maelle Ricker with Whistler Blackcomb Lifetime season pass

On-site media contact: Tabetha Boot, 604-698-6654

Whistler Mountain will officially open for its 45th winter season at 8:30am tomorrow. Five lifts will be turning on Whistler Mountain including the Whistler Village Gondola, Creekside Gondola, Emerald Express, Big Red Express and Franz’s Chair. The last upload from the valley is 2:30pm. The window lift ticket price is $59 CDN for opening weekend.

Early season conditions apply and caution should be exercised at all times while skiing and riding. With early season conditions it is important for guests to obey mountain signage, ski and ride on piste staying within the early season marked operational boundary; marked by “Temporary Boundary” signage during the early season. Guests should also be aware of rocks and other hazards below the snow surface.

For Canadian and Washington State residents, Whistler Blackcomb offers the EDGE Card, allowing guests to ski/ride from $60 (CDN) a day. EDGE Cards also offer additional perks including 20 per cent off retail/rental products and $35 (CDN) off snow school lessons. EDGE Cards are valid for use all season long, and are available at early bird pricing until November 21 at whistlerblackcomb.com/save.