April 22, 2004 – Although conditions at Whistler Blackcomb are still prime for spring skiing and snowboarding, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park is getting ready to open three weeks ahead of schedule, weekends only, on May 1st.

Crews have already set to work, clearing snow and restoring the trails to optimum riding condition.  Seven-day-a-week operations will begin in time for Canada's Victoria Day long weekend on May 22.  In total, the park will provide 145 days of gravity fed, adrenaline fueled riding.

“We plan to spend upwards of $500,000 this summer to take the Bike Park to an even higher level,” said Rob McSkimming, Whistler Mountain Bike Park Director.  “We've got quite a few improvements planned, but the biggest development of the summer will be the addition of the Garbanzo lift.  It's going to nearly triple the Park's vertical, giving riders 3,400 vertical feet to ride top to bottom.”

The Garbanzo expansion is scheduled to open on June 26.  Season passes, priced at $299 plus GST, will go on sale beginning April 24.  This year's day ticket prices are as follows: $39 for adults, $35 for youth and seniors, and $19 for children.  For more information on the Garbanzo expansion and Whistler Mountain Bike Park programs and events, please visit www.whistlerblackcomb.com/bike.  To buy your season pass call

1.800.766.0449.