Get to know the Board 2023-2024
Name:
Dale Mikkelsen
Profession?
RMOW General Manager of Climate Action, Planning, and Development
Describe your position/role:
El Presidente - this is the last year of my third two-year term. Who knows if I've got another two years in me, or if the membership will think I'm worth voting for again. But I'm super happy to be in the role and hope we can keep leading the way in trail stewardship, community-based events, camps, and new trail construction. As the President, I guess I oversee and support all Board members, liaise with engagement groups and our members, and support Trevor, our most excellent Executive Director, in any way he needs it. More importantly, my role is to help set an example and just "be there" - toonies, trail nights, events, and committees. Sit, listen, learn, and respond.
Years of experience on the Board?
6th year as President, and 2 years prior as Fundraising Director.
Why did you join the Board?
Because WORCA members, staff, and board are really the best people in town. Who wouldn't want to be a part of the bike, trail, and stewardship culture of riding in Whistler? And free pizza at the Board meetings. People should really join the Board!
Two favourite Whistler trails?
So many good trails! I tend to fall in love with a different zone each year and spent more than a normal amount of time riding that zone. This year it was right in my backyard with the ever-expanding Cheakamus network. The end-of-season rebuild of Hindsight is incredible. And so stoked to welcome trails like Southern Accent, Roca Verde, and Salsa Verde to the list of trails that WORCA can help to support and become advocates for in the future.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
Every single person that buys a membership and recognises membership isn't about events, or trail nights, or camps... membership is about supporting trails and the advocacy for mountain biking in Whistler.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
With Hammer Roasting now gone, I guess it's beer! And endlessly stoked for the support we get from our local brewers, Whistler Brewing and Coast Mountain Brewing.
Name:
Omer Dagan
Profession?
Whistler Blackcomb Business Development
Describe your position/role:
Vice-President. The VP position has a lot of flexibility, and the priorities of the role changes from year to year and depending on the person holding the title. Practically speaking, this means supporting other Directors with their portfolios, and devoting time to a broad range of projects/initiatives. As I have a background in political science, I’ve devoted a significant portion of my time to the governance and policies of the organization. The VP of course also serves to support Trevor (Executive Director) and WORCA in the President’s absence.
Years of experience on the Board?
7 years. 3 as Secretary and 4 as VP.
Why did you join the Board?
Riding bikes in the woods is an incredible privilege, and I feel thankful to live somewhere people dream of biking. Joining the Board was a way to show appreciation for my good fortune, and to help create the best possible experience for more mountain bikers in our community and from elsewhere.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
1. High Society. It was the first double black in Whistler that I managed to connect all the pieces together on. It holds a special place in my heart because I worked for so long to “unlock” that trail. 2. Any trail that ends at a park, a lake, or with ice-cream. Having two young kids on bikes has changed my perspective of what’s “fun” about going out for a ride.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
That it means different things to different people, but always comes down to loving bikes.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Coffee. Always coffee.
Best part of the 2023 riding season?
Getting to ride Flashback with my whole family for the first time, knowing all the effort the community has poured into that trail, was a pretty amazing experience. After that, watching so many of the world's best bikers race 1199 at the Canadian Open DH is something I'll never forget.
Name:
Moira-Ann Handford
Profession?
Part-time Controller for Coast Mountain Brewing.
Describe your position/role:
Treasurer is a mandatory board position, responsible for financial oversight. So I basically review anything financial that WORCA takes on, as well as ensuring we are in compliance with any government regulations that impact our financial situation. Of course, Trevor, our ED, is also an accountant, so he makes my job very easy.
Years of experience on the Board?
This is my fifth year.
Why did you join the Board?
I am a big believer in volunteers making the world go around, especially when it comes to sport. I am also a big believer in giving back to organizations or communities who have supported me.
Our family has benefited so much from the amazing trail network in Whistler, and will continue to do so for many years.
So it was a no-brainer for me to volunteer with WORCA. As a CPA, I figure I can bring the most value to the Treasurer role, though I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty at trail building nights, or have an opinion on anything that comes up at the Board level that requires some discussion!
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Yummy to Foreplay and Chipmunk Rebellion.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
The passion that everyone involved has for the trails and our riding community. The professionalism that everyone brings to the Board as well as the organization itself. I love to volunteer but I hate having my time wasted on inefficient boards or meetings. With Trevor as ED and Dale as El Presidente, WORCA is an extremely well run entity that I’m happy to give my time to for many years to come.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Beer (Coast Mountain Beer, shameless plug for my employer), and chips, always chips.
Name:
Kayla Dodson
Profession?
Sport Scientist with Canadian Sport Institute Pacific working with Alpine Canada.
Describe your position/role:
I am the Secretary for the Board. Although I take the notes, I hope to bring ideas, leadership and diversity to the Board and the organization. I will aim to contribute ideas such as the Women’s Dig Nights (click for a recap from last summer) and support the ideas of others to promote, sustain and develop cycling and all that it encompasses in the community.
Years of experience on the Board?
Third year.
Why did you join the Board?
I found myself showing up at every dig night on Tuesday and getting to know the deep-rooted members of the cycling community and how wonderful and passionate everyone is. Much like everyone else, I love riding my bike and I wanted to give back to something that brings me so much joy, and be around people who feel the same way. I think WORCA does an amazing job at creating many events and programs suited for everyone and I am a huge advocate for inclusivity and wanted a chance to further push this and for other people to feel empowered to join or try something they may have never tried or been nervous to try before.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Favourite lap will always be the neighbourhood lap - Heavy Flow to Hindsight to Lower Tunnel Vision. Now that I can ride it, am I allowed to say A Line?
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
That we can talk about trails and bikes as in-depth as a snowpack mid-winter.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Nothing like a post-ride beer and a some chips.
Name:
Kat Pohran
Profession?
Marketing Manager - I work primarily on the consulting side, as well as dabbling in event operations.
Describe your position/role:
In my Race Director role, I get to create and finetune opportunities for the Whistler riding community to get out on the trails in social and race settings. I’m responsible for making sure that you, riders, are having a great time in friendly competition on a week-by-week basis! I work with our awesome sponsors to put you on varying trail types, enjoy an awesome après, and win sweet prizes :)
Years of experience on the Board?
Third year.
Why did you join the Board?
I’m pretty new to the whole biking scene, but really loved the community that welcomed me in. I felt this would be a great way to give back.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Love a quick lap of Hey Bud, or a backyard loop in Bayshores, usually Tunnel Vision - Hindsight.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
The commitment to developing (planning, building, maintaining) a network for people to ride their bikes on/in.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Book-ends please!
Best part of the 2023 riding season?
The majority of my riding this year was done close to home, but I was still able to get out and enjoy some mega days with mega friends, hitting favorite trails in a more skilled way than last year as well as exploring some new ones!
Name:
Quinn Lanzon
Profession?
Marketing guy at OneUp Components.
Describe your position/role:
Most of my time and energy goes towards the Back Forty. It took two years to finally get the first event off the ground, due to COVID, but I feel like we’ve got a good event that will continue to grow. Our first edition was a success, raising around $7,000 for the trails. We hope to grow that number, improve the race experience and deliver a much improved après experience for 2022.
Years of experience on the Board?
Been on the board since 2017.
Why did you join the Board?
The first time I attended the WORCA AGM they were looking for a new PR Director. No one in the audience raised their hand so I volunteered and it kind of went from there. I’d only been living in Whistler full time for 6 months at that point.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Dark Crystal and A Line.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
The mix of people on the board leads to thoughtful discussion and different points of view. This year, I think we’re pretty close to having gender parity on the board, too, which is exciting.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Coffee at all times. Beer on special occasions.
Best part of the 2023 riding season?
The Back Forty this year was definitely the highlight for me. Can't believe how much this event has evolved in its short 3 year history. Already looking forward to next year. June 8, 2024. Be there!
To read more about Quinn, and his epic 2500km bike ride to the Northwest Territories (in 11 days!), see this fun interview by our friends, and WORCA sponsors, Origin Outside.
Name:
Ben Hryciw
Profession?
Professional Engineer working in nuclear safety analysis.
Describe your position/role:
Director of Trails. I'm responsible for running our volunteer trail nights during the riding season, and I participate year-round in planning and discussions regarding our trail network.
Years of experience on the Board?
Just starting my second year.
Why did you join the Board?
Two reasons:
Firstly, I loved spending time out in the woods to improve our trails and I wanted to do more to help contribute to our community.
Secondly, because lead trailbuilder Dan Raymond told me to, and I'll do almost anything to look cool for the trail crew :).
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Scotia Nova feels like the perfect climbing trail - nice line, not too steep, great tread, shady in the summer, and plenty of watering holes for the dog. And if you don't like a lap down Del Bocca Vista, what do you like?
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
I've been amazed by the professionalism of the staff and leadership team - everyone works so hard to contribute to our trails and to the entire outdoor community. It's also been impressive to see the diversity of skills, interests, and abilities of the many people who support WORCA through memberships, participation at events, and just plain old riding on the trails.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Nothing like a cold beer to cut your thirst after an afternoon ride in the summertime! Keep those fruity sours 'a comin'!
Best part of the 2023 riding season?
It's been so much fun to meet people having a great time on Far Out / Flashback. I love making my riding partners stop so that I can point out a specific rock or stump that I remember from hard work on a previous Trail Night!
Name:
Emma Logan
Profession?
Conference Sales Associate at Tourism Whistler
Describe your position/role:
As the new Director of Advocacy, I want to continue the previous work that has been done in reaching out to new riders showing them the value of a WORCA membership and encourage them to participate in some of our many events. I also want to see where we can motivate more trail users to become WORCA members and inspire the next generation to become involved in the organization.
Years of experience on the Board?
First year!
Why did you join the Board?
The trail network in Whistler is truly exceptional and serves as a playground for countless locals and visitors. It is clear that WORCA has dedicated so much into the maintenance and growth of the trails as well as developing a wide range of community events for everyone to take part in. I want to be a part of helping to preserve and grow this outdoor resource and help diversify the membership, and being on the Board is a great way to contribute.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Working Class + Howler - I love the west side trails.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
WORCA is for everyone. No matter your passion, there is a way to participate and have a great time with the community who truly love bikes.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
A coffee before a ride definitely makes me climb faster and gives me some more pep for the 2nd lap!
Best part of the 2023 riding season?
This has been my second year coaching in the WB Women’s nights and I absolutely love sharing the skills and stoke with the next wave of adults venturing into this awesome sport. I’ve also really enjoyed riding my favourite trails with my riding buddies who are always up for an adventure.
Name:
Ralph Forsyth
Profession?
Raconteur. Ski Instructor. Entrepreneur (Peak Vending Corp.) Resort Municipality of Whistler Councilor.
Describe your position/role:
Council Appointee
Years of experience on the Board?
Just completed my first year.
Why did you join the Board?
I asked the Mayor if I could be the WORCA Appointee. My kids experiences in the WORCA camps were the catalyst for me taking up mountain biking. Now mountain biking is a huge part of my family, social and work life! It’s been such a joy to see local kids become passionate riders, and the world best in so many competitions… this is in large part due to the Whistler bike culture that has spread around the world, and the work of WORCA. Who wouldn’t want to be part of that!
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Chipmunk Rebellion and Far Out/Flashback loop.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
It’s a real community builder!
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Double espresso and a little chocolate Really gets the energy up for a ride
Best part of the 2023 riding season?
Bike trip to Croatia… Amazing!
Name:
Trevor Ferrao
Profession?
WORCA Executive Director since the role was created in 2018. Before that I worked full-time as a snowboard instructor every winter and for the Whistler Mountain Bike Park Events department and Crankworx during the summer. Before moving to Whistler in 2005, I worked as a chartered accountant in the UK. I was also one of the original owners and directors that started Forbidden Bike Company and was involved all the way through to launching bike sales but resigned from that role in 2019 to focus on my job with WORCA.
Describe your position/role:
Overseeing and managing all of WORCA’s operations and working closely with volunteer directors and staff to achieve the objectives in our strategic plan. My job involves a lot of different responsibilities, from big-picture items like trail advocacy, to very detailed work like grant applications, financial reporting, fundraising campaigns, managing our membership system and maintaining our website. I am often the first point of contact for members and other stakeholders and represent WORCA as a professional organization.
Years of experience on the Board?
2024 will be my 7th year on the Board.
Why did you join the Board?
I have been a WORCA member since I moved to Whistler in 2005 and participated in the Toonie Rides every week, so I knew all about WORCA’s valuable work and its importance to the community when I applied for the ED position. I knew that I could make a significant impact by improving the whole organization using the variety of skills that I have with business, finance, events, instructing and six years of experience as a volunteer director for a national non-profit organization (Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors).
Two favourite Whistler trails?
It’s difficult to pick just two trails but my favourite loop is one that I can do from home in Cheakamus: High Side, HiHi, Business Time to AM/PM, and also the new sections of Flashback that are now open!
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
The people. Working with so many people that are passionate about trails, mountain biking, and our community.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Post-ride beer (but it has to be gluten-free unfortunately).
Best part of the 2023 riding season?
Buying a short travel mountain bike (Norco Optic) and racing the Back Forty, as well as an 18-day road trip to explore the mountain biking in Colorado (Crested Butte, Gunnison, Aspen Snowmass, Buena Vista, Durango).
To watch a fantastic video about Trevor, click on this "Why Whistler" link. "Why Whistler" is a video series produced my Tourism Whistler on why people have chosen to make their home here.