Thursday, December 20

Whistler Blackcomb Nears Record

Press Release

Whistler Blackcomb is expected to break their December snowfall record within the next few days. The previous mark of 380 cm or 150 inches was set in the winter of 1994/95. The resort was bombarded on the last three Saturdays with at least 48 centimetres of snow per day. The current measured accumulation for December is 358 centimetres or 141 inches - and December is just half complete.

The morning snow-report voice of Whistler Blackcomb, Chris Strome, has been amazed at the intensity of the recent storm systems. "I have reported on some huge snowfalls over the years, but nothing like this. In the last week alone, Whistler Blackcomb has received almost two metres of snow. We're on pace to shatter the December record."

Whistler Blackcomb has received 198 centimetres or 78 inches in the last 7 days and enjoys a settled base of 2 metres of snow. Environment Canada is calling for continued snowfall this week.

Whistler Blackcomb is owned and operated by Intrawest Corporation. Intrawest is the leading developer and operator of village-centred resorts across North America. The company owns ten mountain resorts, including Whistler Blackcomb, North America's most popular mountain resort. Intrawest also owns Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Florida and has a premier vacation ownership business, Club Intrawest. The company has a significant investment in Compagnie des Alpes, the largest ski company in the world in terms of skier visits and a 45% interest in Alpine Helicopters Ltd., owner of the largest heli-skiing operation in the world. Intrawest Corporation's shares are listed on the New York (IDR) and Toronto (ITW) stock exchanges. The company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia and is located on-line at www.intrawest.com .