Sun Peaks Unveils 2026 Ambassador & Athlete Squad as Summer Season Opens June 13

From emerging young racers to a 42-year-old downhill veteran, Sun Peaks Resort has named eight local riders and creators to the 2026 Sun Peaks Squad, the resort’s summer ambassador and athlete team showcasing the range of mountain bike culture and talent in the region.

Now entering its third year, the program includes both returning members and new voices, bringing together riders and creators who will help tell the story of the season through racing, riding, trail updates, athlete content, events, and first-hand experiences from the mountain and village.

The announcement comes as Sun Peaks Resort prepares to open its main summer season on Saturday, June 13, 2026, with lift-access biking and hiking returning to the mountain. The Sunburst Express and Sundance Express chairlifts will operate daily from 10am to 7pm through early September, with extended operations through end of September until 5pm.

The 2026 Sun Peaks Squad

The Squad is divided into two streams: a Sponsored Athlete Stream for riders focused on training, racing, and competition, and an Ambassador Stream for riders and creators focused on sharing the Bike Park experience, mountain culture, and community stories throughout the season.

“This year’s team represents a diverse cross-section of backgrounds, ages, and riding styles, from emerging athletes and seasoned racers to riders who simply love the sport and find joy in sharing the stories behind the culture and community that make mountain biking in our region so special,” said Christina Antoniak, Director of Brand & Communications at Sun Peaks Resort.

“We’re incredibly proud to have a Squad representing the Sun Peaks Bike Park. Supporting these riders and helping elevate their pursuits is an important part of showcasing the passion and talent within our biking community.”

Athlete Stream

• Louis Lapierre, 14 – DH Racing, Enduro, Freeride, Slopestyle & XC

• Lily Holly, 17 – DH Racing & Freeride

• Megan Pretorius, 15 – DH Racing & Enduro Racing

• Jon Smith, 42 – DH Racing

Ambassador Stream

• Brandon Dupuis, 17 – Enduro Racing, Bike Park & Trail Riding

• Conor Systrom, 35 – DH Racing & Trail Riding

• Amelia Burrill, 22 – Bike Park & Trail Riding

• Hiroto Takagi, 29 – Freeride & Trail Riding

Throughout the season, Squad members will collaborate with the Sun Peaks Resort marketing and communications team on trail updates, riding content, athlete stories, events, and summer moments from the mountain to the village.

For full Sun Peaks Squad bios, social account links, and program details, visit www.sunpeaksresort.com/sun-peaks-squad-summer-2026.

Opening Weekend Highlights

Summer operations kick off a day early for 2026 Bike Park and Hiking Season Pass holders with Pre-Ride and Hike Day on Friday, June 12, from 2pm to 7pm. Pass holders will enjoy early lift-access riding, a selection of hiking trails, and a complimentary hot dog at Masa's Bar + Grill from 3pm to 5pm, while supplies last.

On opening day, Saturday, June 13, Harry Bear will be in the village from 10am to 11:30am. Guests with a valid lift ticket or season pass can enjoy a beverage, included with their pass/ticket, at Lift and Lager Summer Kick-off at Masa’s Bar & Grill, a partnership with Granville Island Brewing.

The mountain is in great shape heading into opening weekend, with operations teams expecting to open a large selection of Bike Park trails. Several pedal-access community trails on Mt. Morrisey are already open, marking the earliest these trails have opened thanks to the work of the Sun Peaks Recreational Trail Association trail crew. Hiking access is also anticipated on trails up to Top of the World. As with all early season operations, lift and trail access remain subject to weather, trail conditions, and operational requirements.

Visit www.sunpeaksresort.com/summer-opening-day for opening weekend details.

Final Chance for Bike Park Best Buy Pass Pricing

Best Buy pricing on the 2026 Sun Peaks Bike Park Season Pass is available through June 12, with savings of up to $141. Pass holders get unlimited lift-access riding throughout the summer season, plus discounts and pass holder perks, including complimentary lift tickets at other bike parks in BC. A new Twilight Season Pass was launched this year, providing late afternoon access from 4pm-7pm, an affordable option at only $295 until June 12.

Details and pricing are available at www.sunpeaksresort.com/compare-bike-park-options.