In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1986. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: The final race of the 1986 speed skiing World Cup circuit took place on Surprise Bowl on Whistler Mountain at the end of April 1986, gathering about 100 of the world’s fastest skiers.
Question: What led you to take up speed skiing?
Kent Wills – Carpenter/1985 World Record Holder – Vancouver
For the thrill of the sport and for the competitiveness. I also like to meet people and to travel. Plus the rush of adrenaline is incredible. When you’re running 200 kph you’re actually smiling because it’s so much fun.
Dana Meeks – World Cup winner/speed skiing – Enum Claw, Washington
I started 10 years ago. I do it because it’s an exciting thing to do in the wintertime. I was a ski bum for a long time and burned out on freestyle. This gives it a whole new purpose. The real race starts at about 110 mph and at about 160 things start flashing past and it really goes roaring fast.
Stewart Wilkey – Fastest British skier – Great Britain
It’s the best possible buzz I can imagine. Well, maybe the second best. My brother races as well. When I finished school I was looking for a sport that was fast and a bit different.