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Meet the passionate team behind Whistler Sailing. From certified instructors to dedicated volunteers, discover the people who bring sailing to life on Alta Lake. Meet our team Behind every great tack and gybe is a great team - meet the faces that make it all happen! FrancoisHebert Francois Hebert General Manager Francois Roy Hebert is the General Manager of the Whistler Sailing Association and a nationally certified Level 3 NCCP coach with over 25 years of experience in outdoor leadership. At the helm of WSA since 2011, Francois has grown the organization into a dynamic sailing hub that welcomes more than 1,700 student-days each summer. He oversees program development, coach training, and community engagement while also leading the charge on innovative offerings like Wing Foiling instruction. Francois holds Sail Canada’s Competition Development (formerly “Orange”) Race Coach certification and is a recognized Sail Canada Instructor Evaluator. He plays a key role in mentoring the next generation of coaches, with a focus on performance, safety, and fun on the water. His leadership style is grounded in calm, confident decision-making—whether managing a busy sailing school, running instructor clinics, or coaching athletes in challenging conditions. With a strong background in both ski and sailing disciplines, Francois currently serves as a Training Supervisor at the Whistler Blackcomb Snow School, supporting a team of over 1,500 instructors. He holds CSIA Level 4 Instructor and CSCF Level 3 Coach certifications, and has logged over 200 days heli-ski guiding. This extensive experience in high-performance coaching and operational leadership brings added depth to his work on the water. Known for his steady presence and technical expertise, Francois is committed to helping sailors of all ages build skills, confidence, and a lasting connection to the sport. He was recognized for his leadership in risk management by the Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA) Safety Mogul Award in 2022, honoring his significant contribution to the safety culture at Whistler Blackcomb. Under his direction, Whistler Sailing Association also became one of the first sailing schools in Canada to implement mandatory helmet use for everyone 18 & under, setting a new standard for safety in the sport. Francois is also a highly competitive Laser sailor. He won the ILCA 6 (Laser Radial) Provincial Championship in Squamish in 2018, and more recently captured the title at the 2023 ILCA 7 (Laser Standard) U.S. Masters National Championship in San Francisco. Leadership Team At the helm of Whistler Sailing is a committed leadership team charting the course for community connection, youth development, and a love of life on the water. General Manager Francois Hebert A lifelong sailor with a steady hand at the helm, François keeps Whistler Sailing on course and full speed ahead. Head Coach Learn to Sail Programs & Race Team James Cannon Second in command on and off the water, our Head Coach steers the team with skill, heart, and a sharp eye for wind shifts. The Digital Helm Jill Wynott From website to communications, Jill keeps Whistler Sailing’s digital sails trimmed and on course. Senior Sailing Instructor Jeff Baird A steady presence on and off the water, Jeff leads with experience, empathy, and a talent for bringing out the best in both sailors and staff. Sailing Instructors From fine-tuning techniques to chasing perfect wind, these are the faces who shape our sailors and lead the charge on the water. Senior Sailing Instructor Conor Warner Our Pirate Guru, Conor brings energy, expertise, and a love of the lake to every lesson - always ready with a laugh and perfect sail trim. Sailing Instructor Lira Ilyasova With vibrant energy and a creative spirit, Lira keeps the team smiling and the sails flying - always ready with a joke and a splash of colour. Sailing Instructor Charlotte Spencer After instructing in Halifax and Kingston, two of the country’s premier sailing hubs, Charlotte brings valuable experience and fresh energy to the WSA program this season. Sailing Instructor Andreas Radtke With a steady hand on the sheet and an eye on the horizon, Andreas is always ready to trim, tack, and take on whatever the wind brings. Sailing Instructor Zoe Williams With a steady hand and a creative spark, Zoe brings quiet confidence to every boat, always adding her own artistic touch to the fleet. Sailing Instructor Pippa Warner Whether scaling cliffs or steering boats, Pippa stands out. Ranked in the top 20 nationally in competitive climbing, she brings that same balance and focus to the helm - composed, capable, and always ready to lead with heart. Sailing Instructor Levi Rothdram Levi has been sailing Alta Lake since his WetFeet days - a true homegrown sailor with a lifelong love of the wind, the water, and the WSA way. Patient, playful, and always stoked to be on the water, Levi brings joy and calm to every boat he hops in. Sailing Instructor Anais Staniforth Raised in a family of sailors, Anais has wind in her sails and a lifelong love for the water - bringing natural rhythm and ease to every day on the lake. Sailing Instructor Ruby Gee Joining us from Eagle Harbor Yacht Club, Ruby brings a love for sailing and water. Always ready to hoist the sails and make the most of every breeze, she’s excited to share her passion on Alta Lake. Sailing Instructor Devan Radtke Devan grew up through the WSA Race Team and now brings that same stoke and energy to his new role as an instructor. A dedicated Optimist and Laser sailor he’s logged countless hours on the water with friends and family, building skills, confidence, and a true love for the sport. Sailing Instructor Phil Hargreaves Full of curiosity and stoke, Phil is a true WSA original. Whether he’s sailing or diving into his new passion for Wing Foiling, he brings questions, enthusiasm, and boundless energy to every day on the lake. Chief Morale Officer Indy With a wagging tail and a nose for adventure, Indy is our newest recruit - ready to help the team as an assistant coach and keep spirits high on and off the dock. The Wing Crew Meet the crew riding the cutting edge - our wing foil instructors bring stoke, skill, and safety to every session on the water. Lead Wing Instructor Founder of the Wing School Francois Hebert As the leader of our wing foil team, François brings expertise, steady guidance, and a passion for sharing the thrill of flight over water. Wing Instructor Patrick Tunnicliffe Patrick pairs incredible foiling skill with a deep love for community, always bringing riders together and lifting the stoke on and off the water. Wing Instructor Sandra Bicego A true wind sports enthusiast, Sandra brings unstoppable passion and infectious stoke whenever she’s not off chasing wind across the globe. Wing Instructor James Cannon A multi-talented sailor and winger, James brings versatility, skill, and a calm confidence to every session on the water. Wing Instructor Egon Odras A multi-talented wing foiler and pump foiler, Egon brings unmistakable style to every session - powered by incredible athleticism and a firm belief in fast-looking sunglasses. Wing Instructor Simon Beller A lifelong local and wind sports natural, Simon grew up carving lines across Alta Lake - bringing deep roots, local knowledge, and laid-back stoke to every session. Wing Instructor Marc Alfaro Patient, calm, and endlessly supportive, Marc brings a steady presence to every wing lesson - sharing his passion for wind and motion. Guiding the Vision Made up of passionate volunteers and seasoned sailors, our Board of Directors helps steer Whistler Sailing through calm waters and strong gusts alike - always with heart and direction. Commodore & President Patrick McCurdy As Commodore, Patrick is the steady heart behind Whistler Sailing, offering guidance, vision, and unwavering dedication to the community. Planning & Facilities Mick Gannon Mick brings vision and expertise to every project, playing a key role in shaping and improving the facilities that support Whistler Sailing. Regattas & Events Maria Cannon Maria is the driving force behind our most memorable events, bringing organization, energy, and a love for community to everything she does. Treasurer & Secretary David Stein As Treasurer and Secretary, David keeps our finances shipshape and our records in order - the quiet anchor behind the scenes. Memberships, Race & Adult Recruitment David Ellis David champions our membership, racing, and adult programs - always working to grow the fleet and welcome more sailors to the community. Fundraising Megan Risk Megan plays a vital role in our fundraising efforts, helping to secure the support that keeps Whistler Sailing thriving and growing. Director at Large Alex Nichols An avid wing foiler and passionate advocate for innovation on the water, Alex brought his vision to life by inspiring the creation of Whistler Sailing’s wing program. PatrickMcCurdy

Wing Foiling Lessons and Programs on Alta Lake by Whistler Sailing Association Youth Wing Foiling Summer Camps Learn to Wing Foil on Alta Lake this Summer! Join us for an unforgettable week of wing foiling on Alta Lake! Our 5-day Youth Wing Foiling Camps are designed to introduce young adventurers to one of the fastest-growing and most exciting water sports. Wing foiling combines the best elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing. Riders use a lightweight, inflatable wing to catch the wind while balancing on a hydrofoil board that glides above the water. It's a thrilling, dynamic experience that builds balance, coordination, and confidence on the water. Throughout the week, young sailors will learn the fundamentals of wing control, board handling, safety, and riding techniques, progressing from land-based practice to getting up on foil. Book now Equipment Wing A handheld, inflatable wing that generates lift from the wind. The rider holds onto the wing with their hands. Hydrofoil The hydrofoil lifts the board out of the water as it gains speed, reducing drag and allowing for a smoother ride. A board without a hydrofoil using a daggerboard and fins is initially used for learning. Board Inflatable Learn to Foil (LTF) board with daggerboard. The hydrofoil is attached later once wing handling and basic manoeuvres are achieved. Safety Riders often wear a wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket for protection and buoyancy. Book your spot now. Book now

Whistler Sailing is a local non-profit association formed by a group of passionate sailors. We are a fully accredited sailing school offering learn to sail programs and kids and youth summer camps to our community. Welcome to Whistler Sailing Book your 2024 program 2026 Programs Now Available! Book now Featured from the clubhouse 2026 Programs Now Available With programs for all ages and skill levels, we’re excited to welcome sailors back on Alta Lake. Looking for the best job in Whistler? Whistler Sailing is hiring summer sailing coaches. Learn more here. 2026 Youth Wing Foil Camps Two weeks scheduled to choose from. Kids & Youth Sailing Camps Learn to sail to advanced racing tactics. About Whistler Sailing The Whistler Sailing Association is a nonprofit organization composed of recreational dinghy sailing enthusiasts. WSA is a fully accredited sailing school which teaches the Sail Canada curriculum. Learn More What we do Kids & Youth Camps Private Lessons Memberships Boat Charters Wing Foiling Whether you are just starting your sailing journey or a seasoned sailor, Whistler Sailing is here to help you meet your goals. The Latest News 2026 Summer Sailing Programs Now Open for Registration We hope you had a wonderful holiday season and a great start to the new year! With all this snow on the ground, it may be hard to picture sunny days on Alta Lake—but we’re already looking ahead to summer. ⛵❄️➡️☀️ Our 2026 sailing programs are now live and available to book. From youth learn-to-sail camps to advanced racing and adult programming, we’re excited to welcome sailors of all ages and experience levels back on the water. Spaces fill up quickly each year, so we encour ⛵ Whistler Regatta to host the 2026 BC Optimist Championships We’re excited to share that the 2026 Whistler Regatta will also serve as the BC Optimist Championships this year. Hosting the provincial Optimist fleet on Alta Lake is a special opportunity, and we’re thrilled to welcome young sailors from across British Columbia to Whistler. Please note that the Whistler Regatta will take place earlier than usual this year, running on July 18–19, 2026. The earlier date allows us to accommodate the BC Optimist Championships. More details abo Wrapping up a windy summer on Alta Lake ⛵ A huge thank you to everyone who came out for our 2025 Haul Out and Annual General Meeting this past weekend! It was amazing to see so... Subscribe Our Initiatives Whistler Sailing is currently involved in numerous projects. Learn more about our initiatives and ways to get involved. Our Projects Our Sponsors Thank you for your continued support. Meet our Sponsors Donate

Discover the rich legacy of sailing on Alta Lake-from early 1900s adventures at Rainbow Lodge to the vibrant community spirit of the Whistler Sailing Association today. Explore a century of wind-powered passion, local traditions, and bold innovation on Whistler’s iconic waters. History of sailing on Alta Lake Origins: A century of wind and water Before Whistler became a ski mecca, Alta Lake was the heart of summer adventure. In 1914, Myrtle and Alex Philip purchased 10 acres on the lake’s west side and founded Rainbow Lodge. Boating, fishing, and hiking were the core attractions—and yes, even back then, sailing was in the mix. You can see Alex Philip sailing in a 1935 video , gliding through waters right where Whistler Sailing Association stands today. Why Alta Lake? The southerly thermal winds and breathtaking mountain backdrop make Alta Lake an ideal venue for wind-powered sports. It offers consistent afternoon breezes and safe, freshwater conditions -perfect for beginners and pros alike. The Alta Lake Sailing Club (1966) On May 1, 1966, the Alta Lake Sailing Club (ALSC) was formed, bringing together enthusiasts to enjoy the lake's prevailing southerly winds. Operating out of Cypress Lodge, the club hosted events like the Jelly Fish Races and the annual "Regretta," a playful nod to the end-of-summer blues. The club's charter emphasized camaraderie over competition - a spirit that WSA continues to uphold today. Alta Lake Sailing Club Charter "Let it be known to all that on the first day of May, 1966 the Alta Lake Sailing Club was formed to bring together all those who would enjoy the prevailing southerly on Nature’s Jewel in the shadows of the great giants. Only a happy heart may sail in our Ranks—This being the foremost requirement. Competition shall be second to friendship brought about by a common bond. Club commodore will be elected each September and will appoint able assistants and plan the activities of the following season. A master log of all activities shall be maintained and be passed on to his or her successor." The Windsurfing Wave: 1975–1990s Windsurfing caught wind in Whistler in the late 1970s, turning Alta Lake into a summer hotspot for board enthusiasts. The first windsurf board was introduced to the lake by Mark Dufus in 1975, and from there, it was full sail ahead. By 1981, the sport was booming. Two local businesses, Whistler Windsurfing and Blackcombe Sports, offered rentals, lessons, and even club memberships through the Blackcombe Boardsailing Club. The lake buzzed with activity - from weekly races in the Whistler Windsurfing Summer Series to major events like the BC Windsurfing Championships. Whistler’s shores saw more than just local competitors. Jinny Ladner and Andrew Stoner, both community mainstays, earned spots at the 1981 Windsurf World Championships in Okinawa. The Whistler Fall Festival’s “Great Waters Race” even featured windsurfing as one leg of a team relay-though sometimes the wind didn’t show up and paddles had to. Though windsurfing waned in the late 1990s, it left a lasting legacy of adventure and innovation on Alta Lake - one that’s now being reborn with wing foiling. The rise of Whistler Sailing Association (2008–Present) In 2008, a passionate group of Whistler locals founded the Whistler Sailing Association (WSA) to reconnect the community with its natural playground—Alta Lake. What started as a grassroots effort soon grew into a certified sailing school nestled at Cypress Lodge, now shared with The Point Artist-Run Centre. With a mission to make sailing accessible to all, WSA offers programs for every level and age—from first-timers to seasoned racers. WSA was incredibly lucky to cross paths with Dave Patterson from the RMOW. Dave, a windsports enthusiast, shared the vision of the club and helped move WSA to its present site - one which offers excellent launching and natural harbour protection from the wind. The founding board was led by President Patrick McCurdy, whose vision and drive helped lay the groundwork for the organization’s early success. In 2011, Francois Hebert joined as Head Coach, bringing a dynamic mix of coaching expertise, community energy, and program-building momentum that helped WSA solidify its reputation as a premier sailing hub. Key Milestones 2008: Whistler Sailing Association founded as a nonprofit 2007-2010: Mobile Optimist Sailing School comes to Whistler 2011: Establishing of Sailing School in its current form 2011: Hosted the first Tasar Class Regional Regatta 2012: Hosted the BC Optimist Championships 2013: First Annual BC Circuit Regatta 2013: WSA acquires Fleet of Pirates 2015: New dock system built 2017: Over 1000 participants come through the door 2020: Sailing is somewhat Covid proof - summer camps still take place 2023: WSA Race Team created 2024: Introduced wing foiling lessons Be part of the legacy Whether you want to learn to tack, foil, or race, Whistler Sailing Association welcomes you aboard. Come sail with us -and ride the wind like those who’ve loved this lake for over a century. Looking ahead The future at Whistler Sailing Association is powered by wind, community, and bold ideas. As we continue expanding our programs, we’re not just teaching skills; we’re shaping the next generation of lake stewards and water lovers. Our vision includes growing our fleet, enhancing our lakeside facilities, and deepening our role as a hub for outdoor education in Whistler. Whether you’re six or sixty, a first-time sailor or a seasoned racer, WSA is charting a course where everyone has a place on the water.

Join us for the ultimate sailing experience at our Wednesday Night Races in Whistler, BC. Embrace the thrill of club racing and master the course! Club Racing Join us on Wednesday evenings on Alta Lake for the WSA Wednesday Night race series! The series is available to all racing and season pass members. Drop in attendance is allowed at a minimal fee per person. All participants must have a basic membership and sign the appropriate waiver. Races start at 6:15 p.m. sharp. You should plan to arrive at the sailing centre at 5:30 p.m. to ensure sufficient time to sign in, rig, launch your boat and get in a few practice tacks before the start. Race nights alternate between one design Pirate Nights and Open Boat Nights where all sailboats are welcome. Buy Your Racing Membership The Course The standard course for Wednesday night racing is a windward leeward with the start/finish line in the middle of the course. We sail either 1 or 2 laps around the course depending on the wind conditions. There are typically up to three races held depending on the wind, weather and course selection. Start sequence and signals: 3 minutes: 3-2-1-Start Review the Starting Procedure & Course CourseRules Race Rules Starboard tack has right of way Rules of the road apply No hitting one another (with or without boats) Take all marks to PORT unless noted on Race Course No paddling Bribing the committee is against the rules (while anybody is looking) No sabotaging competitors boats (unless they win every race) Follow all the rules Enjoy the race If you win the race, consider sharing your chocolate bar with the web administrator Competitors participate in the races and race series entirely at their own risk. The organizing authority, host sailing association, sponsors and suppliers will not accept any liability for material damage or personal injury or death sustained in conjunction with, prior to, during, or after the races. All participants will be required to sign a waiver of liability as a requirement of entry. Was this page helpful? 👍 👎 Thanks for the feedback! Submit feedback

Join the WSA Race Team at our Sailing School in Whistler, BC! Learn from expert coaches and take part in thrilling racing initiatives. About the WSA Race Team Joining a sailing race team can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience for young sailors. The race team offers a dynamic and multifaceted program that not only fuels a sense of adventure, but also develops a wide range of valuable sailing and life skills. Training takes place on Sundays, with sessions focused on building skills, confidence, and teamwork on the water. The fleet includes Optimists and ILCA dinghies (Laser Radial and 4.7). Book Now Race Team Coach James Cannon A Whistler Sailing alumnus, James combines deep local knowledge with extensive experience coaching performance athletes. An experienced ILCA (Laser) sailor and wing foiler, James brings technical expertise, discipline, and energy to the race team program.

Whistler Sailing is currently involved in numerous projects. Explore further details about our initiatives here learn how to get involved and how you can help. Projects on the go Discover the various projects Whistler Sailing is actively engaged in. Explore our initiatives and find out how you can contribute to support these endeavors. Donate towards a project 01 Carbon Neutral This project is dedicated to making Whistler Sailing the first carbon neutral sailing school in Canada by converting all coach boat gasoline engines to electric motors. Learn More 02 All Hands on Deck The focus of this initiative is to raise funds for constructing a new covered deck area with the aim of achieving various objectives: creating a new teaching area, equipment storage and expanding usable space on site. Learn More 03 Weather Station The Whistler Sailing Weather Station, situated on our docks, delivers up-to-date information on wind and current conditions at Alta Lake. It serves as a preferred resource for many seeking the latest weather updates. Check the weather How you can help. There are various ways to support the Whistler Sailing initiatives, such as volunteering your time or making a donation. Reach out if you want to help! Donate towards a project

Find out about our sailing school's cancellation policy at 5678 Alta Lake Road, Whistler, BC, Canada. Plan your sailing adventure with peace of mind. Cancellation Policy We understand that plans can change. Cancellations are subject to a $60 administration fee per course. No refunds for cancellations made within 14 days of the scheduled start date. No refunds after the start date for the course. Sorry, no exceptions. Whistler Sailing Association may cancel any courses due to insufficient enrolment or for other reasons beyond its control. In such circumstances, registrants will receive a full refund. Rescheduling to a different week within the same program incurs no additional fees, contingent upon available space during the chosen week. Please note that changes can only be accommodated if space is available. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with an exceptional experience.

Wing Foiling Lessons and Programs on Alta Lake by Whistler Sailing Association Adult Wing Foiling Lessons Beginner to advanced wing foiling lessons on Alta Lake. Wingfoiling is an exciting and relatively new water sport that offers a unique blend of wind and water dynamics, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of water sports enthusiasts. Wingfoiling combines elements of windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing. It involves using a handheld inflatable wing, known as a wing, to harness the power of the wind and propel a rider across the water while standing on a board equipped hydrofoil. Book Now Why learn to wing foil in Whistler? Reliable, Beginner-Friendly Wind Alta’s thermal wind reliably kicks in during the afternoon, delivering steady breezes between 12–16 knots - considered the sweet spot for wing foiling. These predictable conditions allow for confident skill-building and progression. Warm, Fresh Water Alta Lake offers warm freshwater conditions, with summer temperatures reaching 20°C (70°F)—perfect for comfortable sessions in just a thin wetsuit. With no tides to consider, it’s an ideal setting for relaxed, extended time on the water. Flat Water Conditions Due to the relatively small size of the lake, Alta provides consistently flat, nearly wave-free water. This smooth surface is ideal for beginners, making learning to wing foil feel stable and approachable from the very first session. Unique Floating Barge Setup Our custom-built floating barge serves as the ultimate classroom. It’s where you’ll master wing handling techniques before transitioning seamlessly into your water session. You maximize your time on the water - no walking, long boat rides, or waiting around. It’s a great staging area and launch pad, just a few steps from the action. And with incredible mountain views, it’s hard to beat as a place to learn. Why learn to wing foil in whistler? Equipment Wing A handheld, inflatable wing that generates lift from the wind. The rider holds onto the wing with their hands. Hydrofoil The hydrofoil lifts the board out of the water as it gains speed, reducing drag and allowing for a smoother ride. A board without a hydrofoil using a daggerboard and fins is initially used for learning. Board Inflatable Learn to Foil (LTF) board with daggerboard. The hydrofoil is attached later once wing handling and basic manoeuvres are achieved. Safety Riders often wear a wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket for protection and buoyancy. Contact us to start your wing foiling adventure Book Now

Stay up to date with upcoming events, races, and programs. Explore the Whistler Sailing Club calendar for schedules, registration dates, and more. Club Calendar Event Title Event Time Event Date Change the event description to include your own content. Adjust the settings to customize the style. January 2026 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT

Support Whistler Sailing by making a donation. Choose a general contribution or a tax-receipted gift and help keep sailing accessible in Whistler. Donate to Whistler Sailing Your support helps Whistler Sailing grow our programs, maintain our fleet, and make sailing accessible to our community - thank you for considering a donation. How to donate 1. General Donation (no tax receipt) Support Whistler Sailing directly. Your contribution goes straight to our programs and operations, helping us maintain our fleet, run community sailing lessons, and expand access to the lake. 2. Tax-Receipted Donation Make your gift through our charitable partner and receive a tax receipt. This option allows you to support Whistler Sailing while benefiting from an official charitable donation receipt for your records. Thank you to our sponsors

Discover the valued sponsors behind our Sailing School at 5678 Alta Lake Road, Whistler, BC, Canada. Learn about the businesses supporting our mission! Our Sponsors Whistler Sailing relies on sponsors for survival, and their support is crucial to our mission. Their generous contributions go beyond finances, providing the foundation for our programs and equipment. We want to express our sincere thanks to our sponsors for their commitment and belief in our cause. With their support, we can continue making a positive impact in our community.