Posted : Tue, Sep 13, 2011 10:30 pm

Good Bye Summer, It Was a Blast!

The Labour Day long weekend marks the unofficial ending of the summer season. However, here in Whistler we are enjoying the late summer surge we have been waiting for…all summer long. So, with temperatures flirting with the 30 degree Celsius (86 Farenheit) mark this past week, the Whistler lakes have seen a healthy number of visitors looking to squeeze in as much as summer as possible before the crisp fall weather sweeps into town.

Now that summer is unofficially over, I think it is a good time to give a quick review of some of the awesome events that we have enjoyed here in Whistler this season.

The summer event lineup kicked off with the first Whistler Half Marathon which went down in early June. The event was a huge success and sold out 9 weeks before race day! Athletes, volunteers, organizers and cheerful supporters (and even the weather) came together to bring in summer with a great event that I am sure will become a summer staple here in town (next year’s race will be on June 2, 2012). The course was grueling for even the seasoned athletes but there were no complaints as the runners crossed the finish line.

The 10-day Kokanee Crankworx Festival once again brought some of the world’s best mountain bike athletes to town. With gravity-defying stunts, break-necking downhill races and punishing cross-country rides this festival always bring lots of adrenaline, for both riders and spectators. In addition to the biking, there was also a demo zone, free concerts and the Deep Summer Photo Challenge. It is definitely the best mountain biking festival in the world (in my books at least) and I can’t wait for next year.

ArtWalk was another huge success as Whistler Real Estate played host as one of the ‘Hot Spots’ in the first round of opening receptions. For 2 months, July and August, visitors and locals were able to grab a map and see the work of some of Whistler’s amazing local artists as they toured the venues (everything from banks, hotels and offices to retail outlets, cafes and restaurants).

Finally, as if this wasn’t enough, the cherry on the cake came in the form of the free concert series organized by the Resort Municipality of Whistler. Celebrating the opening of Celebration Plaza (the same venue that hosted the Whistler medal ceremonies of 2010 Olympics and the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 Paralympics), the Muni put together an impressive lineup of artists who played open, free concerts throughout August. Among the performers, we had the opportunity to see the Barenaked Ladies, Tom Cochran, Jason Mraz, Bif Naked and Colin James.

The Canadian Cheese Rolling Festival was also back this year and proved to be a day of fun and good laughs. This summer also saw the return of the Whistler Farmer’s Market, the Comfortably Numb Trail Race, the Toonie Races (including Whistler Real Estate’s Retro Toonie), the Children’s Art Festival and the LunaFliks. Some of the new events included the BC Bike Race and the Whistler Warrior Dash. Wow! It is hard to believe that we were able to squeeze so many huge events into such a short period of time.
Although not officially summer events, I also just wrapped my Steve Legge Hockey Camp which took place last week and on this past Saturday, we had the 2nd Annual GranFondo where 7,000 cyclists rode from Downtown Vancouver to Whistler Village with the fastest finish time clocking in at just over 3 hours!

Looking back, it was an awesome summer in Whistler!

But now, we begin to turn the page as we welcome fall and begin think about winter. There are some awesome times to be had too, but that is material for another post. In the mean time, enjoy what is left of this late summer weather!

Steve

Posted : Thu, Jun 2, 2011 5:52 pm

Whistler Half Marathon drawing first-timers

Many locals taking advantage of race close to home

By Eric Mackenzie

Source: Whistler Question

 The Whistler Half Marathon is set to make its debut on Saturday (June 4) and some local runners are using the event to make a competitive debut of their own.

First-time entrants in the 21.1-kilometre race, like Whistler resident Bree Lehto, said having a half marathon so close to home was a major factor in their decision to try the distance in a race format.

“I’ve always been interested in running and have been getting into it more over the last year,” said Lehto, who ran her first 10-km race in 2010. “I thought about doing (a half marathon) last year and now that Whistler’s having one, I have to take advantage of it.”

Race director Dave Clark said Lehto’s motivation is similar to that of many living in the resort who are set to complete their first half marathon on Saturday.

“We’re definitely hearing a lot of people that are saying, ‘It’s so great to have it here because now I don’t have to travel,’” said Clark. “Because it’s here in town, it’s made it easy for those people who have sat on the fence in the past about going and doing one, because it’s a bit intimidating for your first event to pick up and travel to a different destination, spending the money on accommodations and to get there, then put yourself in a crowd of people where you don’t know anybody.”

Since Saturday’s race is more than twice the distance of Lehto’s last competitive outing, she said she’s had to take a different approach to training to prepare for the half marathon distance.

“I’ve been loosely following a half marathon training program where you have to incorporate hill runs and long runs — a little more structured than I’m used to,” she said.

The same goes for Jayne Lomas, who has been on a 17-week program bringing her right up to race day.

“It’s been going quite well and I’ve stuck to it the whole time,” said Lomas, noting that she’s also participated in some of the Saturday training runs offered by race organizers. “I’ve done (the total distance) twice now and it went a lot better than planned.”

Under the eye of a running partner from work, Lomas said she finished her 21.1-km run in a time 22 minutes quicker than her initial goal.

“Now I’m kind of nervous for race day that I won’t match my training time,” she laughed. “But I’ll just be happy to finish, I guess.”

Lehto recently completed the race course on her own, and though she said she found it difficult, finishing the course gave her a nice confidence boost for the start line on Saturday.

“I wanted to know that I could do it mentally,” she said. “I did it at a slow, steady pace and now I know I can do it.

“It’s nice having the home court advantage, too… because a lot of the course is stuff I run all the time.”

Clark said that race organizers weren’t necessarily trying to make the route easy, but that they tried to plan one that would still be inviting for first-timers in Whistler.

“We certainly designed the course to make it achievable for runners of all abilities,” he said. “The familiarity of the terrain is a big win for the local runners.”

Runners will take their mark at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, leaving from Whistler Olympic Plaza, with the leaders expected to arrive at the finish line — also located in the plaza —slightly more than an hour later.

 

Posted : Tue, May 17, 2011 6:40 pm

Spring is finally rearing its pretty head…

 It has been a very long winter season here in Whistler with the mountains still receiving fresh snow on a weekly basis.  The Whistler Mountain Bike Park it slated to open May 20th and although there are still skiers and riders making their way up the lifts, the biking community is raring to go!

Check out some of the things to do around Whistler this Spring…

8th Annual Whistler Chamber Golf Classic!

1:00pm-1:40pm      Registration at the Club
     1:40pm                  Welcome and reading of the rules at the 1st tee
     1:45pm                  Guest Hosts will escort groups to their starting holes
     2:00pm                  Once your team arrives at its designated tee, begin to play
     At Finish                 Après reception, burgers and refreshments
     7:30pm                  Prizes and Awards (must be present to win draw prizes)
Admission: $60 + HST per person (includes power cart, burger and a beer)
Location: The Whistler Golf Club

For more info contact the Whistler Golf Course

Outlook Economic Outlook Symposium

Building on Whistler’s national and international reputation, the OUTLOOK Economic Symposium, hosted by the Whistler Chamber of Commerce, June 5-6, 2011, will be an annual event that attracts expert speakers from a variety of industries, delivers compelling content and hosts business and community leaders from across the province.

In its inaugural year, and in the context of the economic, financial, demographic and consumer trends affecting Canada and the rest of the world, the conference will examine the issues and opportunities influencing BC’s economic future in the decade ahead.

Topics will include:

  • Watching the World: Today’s Global Economic Outlook
  • Concentrating on Canada: A National Economic Outlook
  • Trending to the Future: What are Today’s Trends Telling Us?
  • Keynote Address: BC’s Place on the Global Economic Chessboard provided by Hon. Kevin Falcon, Minister of Finance and Deputy Premier
  • Sector Panel Discussion: Tourism, Natural Resources, Technology, Arts and Real Estate
  • Focusing Forward: Forecasting BC’s Global Economic Future

For registration info contact the Whistler Chanmer (604) 932-5922 Ext 24

https://www.whistlerchamber.com/component/option,com_dtregister/Itemid,760/eventId,532/task,event_register/type,reg_options/

Keep An Eye Out for…

Whistler Street Entertainment – Enjoy free all day entertainment throughout the Village. Animation and interactive entertainment by performers from the Sea-to-Sky Corridor and touring artists from across Canada this holiday weekend!

May 20 – 22: Nylon Zoo and the Ta Daa Lady at the Whistler Olympic Plaza / Mountain Square

May 20 – 22: LEGO “Build Together” Interactive Village at the Village Square

May 20 – 22: Music by Papa Josh & Helen Austin at the Whistler Town Plaza Gazebo

May 21 & 22: Music by the Bluesberries at the Village Square

May 22, 11 AM to 4 PM: All British Field Meet Car Show at the Whistler Olympic Plaza

Posted : Thu, Mar 24, 2011 12:43 am

What a season!

This year has given us an amazing ski season. With 1,367cm (538 inches) so far this year ‘powder days’ have not been in short supply and there is no end in sight. I have the calluses on my hands from shovelling all the snow to prove it! The word on the street is that this season has been one of the best ski/snowboard seasons in recent memory and it seems like every day is “the best day ever” or “the most epic day ever”

Although the official start of spring has come and gone, the impressive snow base means that we will likely all be skiing/boarding well into May. This is a great time of year to be in Whistler. There is nothing better than being able to enjoy the sunshine on the slopes in the morning and a leisurely (or not so leisurely) bike ride on the Valley Trail in the afternoon. Although it will be a while yet before we can dust of our golf clubs or head out on the single-track trails, these glimmers of spring sure get the golf itch going. Another great thing about this time of the year is that it is spring break, which means I have lots time to spend with my family on the slopes and at the ice rink.

In terms of events, here are some things to look forward to:

  • Spaces are filling up for the first ever Whistler half Marathon so if you plan to participate you better lace up those runners and get out there! Don’t forget to register (www.whistlerhalfmarathon.com).
  • This Thursday (March 24th) is the Whistler Twestival supporting the Zero Ceiling Society (www.zeroceiling.org). It is taking place at the Whistler Brewing Company at 7:00pm. It will be good times for a good cause. You can still get tickets at www.whistler.twestival.com.
  • For music lovers, Alpha Yaya Diallo will be performing at Millennium Place at 8:00 on March 26th as part of the 2010/2011 Performance Series. For tickets and information, visit  www.artswhistler.com.

Make sure you find time to get out there and enjoy the amazing snow conditions and some of the events happening in town. I’ll see you out there!

Posted : Wed, Feb 2, 2011 6:40 pm

One Month Into 2011…

Hello All!

One month into 2011 and life is good!  With lots of snow on the hill and a few bluebird days you gotta make your way up here.  There is a lot going on around town for everyone to enjoy, below is some information for you to check into:

WinterPRIDE Gay & Lesbian Ski Week: Jan. 30 – Feb. 6, 2011

Whistler knows how to celebrate and celebrate diversity with the 19th annual Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard week. Fantastic events both on and off the slopes. For more information go to: http://www.gaywhistler.com/winterpride2011.php

Appleton Rum Peak to Valley Race:
February 4-5, 2011

The Peak to Valley is a long standing and unique team race on Whistler Mountain. Teams of 4 (one member must be of the opposite sex) race a course which starts on the Whistler Saddle and finishes at Dusty’s. Two members race on Friday, two on Saturday. The start order is based on age, with the oldest competitors starting first. The Peak to Valley race has a vertical drop of 1,443 metres, with 180 gates and a course that’s over 5 km long.  For more info go to www.whistlerblackcomb.com

1-year Winter Games Anniversary:
February 11-13, 2011

Whistler is getting ready to celebrate the one-year anniversary during the Whistler Winter Arts Festival, February 11 to 13, 2011. Locals and visitors are invited to come out relive the magic and energy of the 2010 Winter Games. So mark the weekend of February 11, 2011 on your calendar as a time to celebrate Whistler’s success. Don’t forget to show your Canadian pride and wear your red and white, volunteer uniform or Captain Canada costumes.  For more info go to:
http://www.whistler.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1058

Morgan Exhibition: February 12, 2011

Angela Morgan’s impressionist style celebrates humanity with broad stokes and bold, bright colours. Her human figures express the poses of life, the jubilation of dance, the contemplation of parenthood and the joy of winter. Coloursfuse and meld to achieve gesture; transforming abstract images into living moments. Meet the artist, Saturday, Feb. 12, 5-8 pm. Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery; Westin Resort and Spa; 1.888.938.0087

Whistler Super Demo Days: February 19-20

Can-ski and Showcase Demo Centre located outside the Roundhouse on Whistler Mountain Come Demo the latest Boards and Skis! All our top vendors will be present with additional gear and it’s always free to demo you just need ID and a credit card. Look for the vendor tents and flags outside the big white demo tent. For more info go to: http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/stores/demo.htm

Winemaker Après Series:
February 23, 2011 – Osoyoos Larose and Nk’Mip Cellars

Winemaker Après Series At Steeps Grill & Wine Bar on Whistler Mountain
Come and sample the Steeps British Columbia inspired menu paired with wines from the best that B.C. has to offer.

Thursday, January 20 – Inniskillin Okanagan
Wednesday, February 23 – Osoyoos Larose and Nk’Mip Cellars
Wednesday, March 16 – Jackson Triggs Okanagan Estate
Wednesday, April 13 – See Ya Later Ranch

Tickets starting at $54.00*, available at 604.905.2379
All events begin at 2pm.

See ya on the Slopes!

Steve

Posted : Fri, Nov 26, 2010 9:18 pm

Whistler is a Winter Wonderland

Whistler Village has been blanketed by 15cm of powder.  The Mountains received 20cm overnight to bring the base to over 100 cm.  There is plenty to check out this weekend around the village:

Whistler’s Original Artisan Market!
Located at the Whistler Conference Centre

Bizarre Bazaar has built a reputation of presenting unique, quality, hand-made art and crafts for Whistler residents and visitors looking for one-of-a-kind treasures. Featuring over 100 artisans from the Sea to Sky Corridor, Lower Mainland and beyond, the 22nd annual holiday craft fair will feature a wide array of ceramics, clothing, fine art, wood, glass, metal, jewelry, leather, candles and aromatherapy products as well as Christmas decorations. Attracting over 5,000 visitors in 2009, Bizarre Bazaar is a vibrant community event that includes live music, a silent auction, dance and food. November 26th & 27th

FIBT Bobsleigh and Skeleton World Cup

This Bobsleigh and Skeleton competition is the first at an Olympic Venue since the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Come cheer on the world’s Olympians and Canada’s medalists. Tickets are $10

And of course there are those two big Mountains that we are know for.  Both Whistler & Blackomb Mountains are open everyday 8:30-3:00.  Also be sure to hit up your favorate Apres spot for the best people watching in the village.

See ya on the slopes!

Steve

Posted : Wed, Nov 24, 2010 6:27 pm

OCP Meeting Tonight in Whistler!

November 24th

6:00pm-9:00pm @ The Whistler Conference Centre

The workshops, entitled, “Our Community. Our Plan,” will provide an opportunity for community members to weigh in on proposed updates to existing policy and community directions proposed to address Whistler’s current issues. Participants will also have an opportunity to sign up for in-depth working group discussions, which will take place late November-early December.

The workshops will be hosted by the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) and will ask Whistler citizens to provide direction on the next phase of our OCP update:

The Whistler community workshop will include:

• Opportunities to review OCP update materials and to ask questions in an “open house” format;

• A brief presentation about the OCP update;

• Small table discussions on Whistler’s proposed updates to existing policy and proposed community directions;

If you want to be involved in the community and share your ideas or concerns now is your chance to speak up.

Steve

Posted : Fri, Oct 15, 2010 5:31 pm

What a Weekend to Come up and Play

With the sun shining and the leaves changing, it is gearing up to be a fantastic fall weekend here in Whistler.  For those of you planning on making the trip, here are a few events for you to check out:

The Fungus Among Us Mushroom Festival

The Fungus Among Us Festival kicks off today at Spring Creek Community School. A weekend of walks, talks, tastes and displays, be sure to check out the website below for more info.

www.whistlernaturalists.ca

The Whistler Writer’s Festival October 14th-16th

The Whistler Readers & Writers Festival presents a selection of 20 seminars for writers of all levels of ability, including several free sessions etc. In addition, there are reading events geared to the reader and the general public.  See the website below for more details:

www.theviciouscircle.ca

There are also plenty of local restuarants that have great 3 course specials on right now.  Check out the Pique News magazine for more info.

This time of year is also a great time to come up and hike some of the awesome trails Whistler has to offer.  With the cool crisp autumn air and the sun shining on your face there is nowhere else you would rather be.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Steve

 

 

Posted : Thu, Oct 7, 2010 5:02 pm

Thank Goodness For Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my Canadian clients!  With the year having flown by,  that long weekend filled with friends, family and lots of good food has arrived.  For those of you that are visiting Whistler here are a couple of things for you to enjoy:

The Legendary Turkey Sale, where you can shop for the top name brands in ski and snowboard equipment under one roof, at huge pre season savings!

If you do one thing to get ready for the upcoming season, make sure you stop into the Turkey Sale! The deals and activities don’t stop there. Local retailers, accommodation and restaurants are all sharing in the Thanksgiving spirit. The Turkey Sale, and all of the Thanksgiving activities that go along with it, starts at high noon Friday October 8, with a sale for locals and lasts through the weekend.

The Legendary Turkey Sale, where you can shop for the top name brands in ski and snowboard equipment under one roof, at huge pre season savings!

If you do one thing to get ready for the upcoming season, make sure you stop into the Turkey Sale!

The deals and activities don’t stop there. Local retailers, accommodation and restaurants are all sharing in the Thanksgiving spirit. The Turkey Sale, and all of the Thanksgiving activities that go along with it, starts at high noon Friday October 8, with a sale for locals and seasons pass holders and lasts through the weekend for the public.

TGR ‘Light the Wick’ Whistler Premiere Oct 8

It’s coming… always THE ski film premiere event of the season, Teton Gravity Research’s latest Ski & Snowboard film ‘Light the Wick’ is hitting Whistler on Friday, October 8th, 2010. Don’t miss it.  Whistler Blackcomb is giving away a free Seasons Pass!! Friday, Oct 8th, 2 shows at 7 & 9 pm. Doors at 6pm at Millenium place.

Be sure to check out The Pique Newsmagazine for a list of all the open houses being held by The Whistler Real Estate Company over the weekend. 

Lastly I would like to give thanks to all of my past & present clients.  I look forward to assising you all in the future.

Steve 

 

 

 

Posted : Tue, Sep 21, 2010 5:37 pm

Fall is here with winter not far behind!!

And so it begins… With fresh snow on the tops of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains this morning, the countdown to the opening of the 2010/2011 ski season begins. November 25, 2010 is the opening day so mark your calendars. The Vancouver Ski Show is coming up on September 25th & 26th and the Vancouver Convention Centre – a great time to look for new or used gear. Also don’t forget the Annual Turkey sale in Whistler on the Canadian Thanksgiving long weekend! Nothing but good deals to be had so make sure you get there early to avoid the line-ups!

With golf season quickly coming to an end and an awesome summer of paddle boarding and fishing, it is time to pull out the hockey gear. Last week we wrapped up a successful Youth Hockey Camp where over 90 kids between the ages of 5-17 came out and worked on their skills. I look forward to hosting the camp again next year.

There is a lot of new product on the market in Whistler and Pemberton and many great deals to be had. As always drop me a line if you have any questions or would like more information on the current real estate market.

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