Whistler’s Quest to Host the UCI MTB Triple Crown

A Historic Bid for Mountain Biking Glory

In 2001, Whistler was on the brink of hosting the prestigious UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) MTB World Cup Triple Crown event, but things took a turn. The UCI received a total of 11 bids from various groups in Whistler between 1991 and 1999, yet only one stood out enough to succeed.

Foundation of TEAM Management

In 1998, Marika Koenig and Claire Bonin established TEAM Management, an events company dedicated to mountain biking festivals. They launched the inaugural Whistler International Classic, a race that allowed professional riders to accumulate UCI points. This signature event laid the groundwork for a new multi-day festival named the Summer Session, which encompassed a variety of activities, from competitive racing to social events like bachelor auctions. TEAM aimed to showcase Whistler as a viable host for a World Cup event.

Securing the Bid

By September 1999, TEAM submitted a comprehensive bid to the UCI, drawing support from Cycling BC, the Canadian Cycling Association (CCA), and various local tourism and municipal stakeholders. Their efforts culminated in UCI awarding Whistler the coveted bid just four months later, igniting hope and excitement in the community.

The Downfall of the Dream

Despite the initial success, challenges emerged shortly thereafter. W3, a consortium that included Whistler Blackcomb and other stakeholders, sought to take over management but lacked the necessary expertise. The situation led to a premature decision to withdraw from hosting the World Cup just seven months before the scheduled event. This abrupt change left the community feeling disillusioned and confused, with many letters expressing support for TEAM appearing in local papers and questioning the reasons behind the withdrawal.

Impact on Local Events and Future Prospects

As a result of the fallout, TEAM canceled their planned summer events, including the third annual Summer Session, leading to the eventual shutdown of their business. Moreover, there were concerns that this unfortunate turn of events could adversely affect Whistler’s bid for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, as the UCI President at the time, Hein Verbruggen, had connections to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Competitors Emerge: Grouse Mountain and Sun Peaks

Meanwhile, other resorts, notably Sun Peaks and Grouse Mountain, entered the fray to claim the opportunity. In March 2000, Grouse Mountain was confirmed to host the Triple Crown from July 4 to 8, 2001, along with subsequent World Cup events in 2002 and 2003. Although initial hesitations scrubbed the plans due to inadequate on-mountain facilities, assurances were made regarding access via the Skyride, which could transport up to 1,200 people per hour.

Change and Growth

With the addition of Gestev Inc., experienced organizers who had previously managed events in Mont-Ste-Anne and Mazatlan, the first Grouse Mountain hosted event thrived. However, interest in mountain biking at Grouse waned until the recent opening of a new Bike Park this summer.

Local Resilience and New Ventures

For Whistler, losing the Triple Crown left a significant void during the summer season. Mountain biking had long been a summer staple, prompting local organizers to step up. Paddy Kaye and Chris Winter launched Joyride Productions in 1997, aiming to attract freeriding events. They proved instrumental in managing trails and organizing events for the Summer Session.

The Dawn of Joyride

In 2001, with the absence of major events, they pulled off the Joyride Bikercross, perfectly timed just one day before Grouse Mountain’s World Cup, capturing pro riders who were keen to participate in both events. This grassroots success led to enhancements and the eventual incorporation of the slopestyle competition, culminating in the birth of Crankworx—a massive summer festival for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Conclusione

The tale of Whistler’s near-miss with the UCI MTB Triple Crown showcases the complexity of organizing international sporting events and the impact on local tourism and community engagement. While the lost opportunity stirred initial disappointment, it also paved the way for future festivals that have made Whistler a key player in the mountain biking circuit.

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