As a former head designer / builder / Snowcat operator for the Terrain Parks and Snowboard / Ski freestyle, Snowboard Cross, Slopestye, and Big Air events at the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, and having spent nearly 30 years working around the globe in terrain park programs-  I have witnessed first-hand how man-made jumps can enhance our terrain parks. 

In 2008 RCR stopped building Jumps in its terrain parks. ( Although Stoneham out in Quebec seemed to ignore the head office "policy" and has continued to offer its guests halfpipes and parks with jumps- something RCR wouldnt obviously promote to all of its other clients that have been paying to use facilities elsewhere) 

This was very unfortunate for many who pushed for the parks to become world class, and put so much hard effort and passion to do so. Many years of efforts went to successful rebranding and developing of the the terrain park programs across RCR resorts. Across 5 resorts through the late 90's and early 2000's , We hosted huge events like "Superpark", as well as numerous national, regional and grassroots competitions. After all of this -  Gaining international media attention in film and print recognizing the parks and park programs that were created.  When these jumps were removed as part of what RCR called "an industry-leading safety initiative" it all ended. Most all of those passionate people that held positions to keep these parks running ended up leaving. - 

Although the original press release claimed to be "industry leading" it was great to see that NO other resorts in the world followed suit. Many simply laughed ( Including one owned by RCR that continued to build)  and many saw and called it for what it was.. a financial decision made by Ownership/Managers that was masked as a "safety" play. 

      Over the years many riders/skiers that frequented the RCR resorts of the 90's and early 2000's to train/ride, went on to become huge stars in the winter sport world.  Many of them achieving Olympic status, competing in X-Games, and becoming highly visable professional athletes. 16 years later, it has become obvious that this move by RCR has had a significant impact on our future Olympians' ability to become the "BEST".  Looking at the number of "professional" Snowboard and Ski athletes that grew up in these areas comparing then to now... and its quite obvious the impact it truly has had.

My children are now at the age I was, when we all gathered to "protest" that the mountain had no jumps here in Kimberley BC.  We were able to change the status quo and had a terrain park built for us (granted it was nothing like we would see today, but it was "something"),- that was the start of my personal "career" in the industry, going on to travel around the globe designing and building parks and events for over 30 years.  Myself, along with many others in the  communities surrounding these RCR resorts, are eager for the reintroduction of these man made features. These features not only provide an opportunity for athletes to hone their skills but also add an element of excitement and challenge that is currently missing from the parks that have been provided by RCR for so many years.

The removal of man made jumps was initially done (according to the press release) with "guest safety" concerns in mind.  Well, - Many years of data now exist that prove they were very much wrong, and  according to statistics from National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), terrain park injuries make up less than 10% of all ski resort injuries. This suggests that with proper regulation and maintenance, man-made jumps can be safely integrated into our terrain parks.  

Since 2008, when RCR made this announcement,  The Olympics have added "BIG AIR" and "SLOPESTYLE" to both Snowboarding and Skiing events,  and most all other major resort operations around the globe put a huge amount of focus on terrain parks for the enjoyment of all guests, Ones they charge a premium to be playing on the mountain. RCR has continued for 16 years to charge more, but provide less..( take a look at pass prices and the season length compared to many others that offer Much better services) . Its Time for that to change!

By signing this petition you are supporting the future of all young aspiring athletes who deserve a chance at reaching their full potential. Let's urge the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies to reconsider their decision and bring back man-made jumps to our beloved terrain parks! Please sign this petition today.