Get to know the Board 2025-2026
Name:
Dale Mikkelsen
Profession?
RMOW General Manager of Climate Action, Planning, and Development
Describe your position/role:
El Presidente - this is my fourth 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?
8th 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?
I'll lean into post-ride beer. I love the support we have from our local breweries for all of our events, dig nights, and toonies. But a big bonus for us in Cheakamus is the new Happy Hour at the hostel - great place to wrap up a Cheakamus/Flank ride and hang out with friends.
Best part of the 2025 riding season?
Obviously riding and re-riding and re-re-riding trails in Whistler is always a highlight. The biggest highlights in Whistler this year was better putting together longer continuous singletrack loops using trails like Industrial Disease and Singletrack Mind. A super fun new ride we put together was the Low Elevation Whistler Eastside Link-up putting trails together from Cheakamus to Wedge using the Valley Trail as a connector. Over 50km and over 2,000m of unique and varied trails. Looking forward to refining this next year. Outside of Whistler, finally exploring Quesnel with friends was a great long weekend away and something everyone should do. Too close not too!
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 organizations priorities or 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. The VP of course also serves to support Trevor (Executive Director) and WORCA in the President’s absence. This past year has been spent on WORCA's strategic plan, events, and a broad range of "background" tasks that are less fun but keep the organization moving forward.
Years of experience on the Board?
9 years. 3 as Secretary and 6 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. Flashback. My reasons for loving it grow by the day. Living in Cheakamus it ends up being a part of so many rides, be they long or short. It's open early in the Spring and stays rideable late in Fall. My kids adore it as well and it won't be long before I can't keep up to them, so I need to take advantage of riding with them for as long as possible.
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 2025 riding season?
Getting to bring both my kids to Trail Nights for the first time. Then getting to ride with them and hearing my youngest son beam with pride whenever he rode "his" berm on the new exit of AMPM.
Name:
Marisa Harder
Profession?
Manager at BDO Canada
Describe your position/role:
Providing financial oversight to the organization and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations regarding the financials.
Years of experience on the Board?
2025 will be my second year
Why did you join the Board?
I've had so much fun over the years biking in Whistler that I wanted to be able to give back to an organization that provides so much for our community and hopefully my skills as a CPA can help!
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Bring on the Weekend and Dark Crystal
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
Getting to meet new people and talk about bikes!
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Pre-ride latte probably with a lot of sugar.
Best part of the 2025 riding season?
Competing in my first toonie rides!
Name:
Layla d'Emanuele
Profession?
High School Teacher at Whistler Secondary teaching Spanish, French, Social Studies and PE.
Describe your position/role:
I am the secretary for the Board. My main role is to take notes for the board meetings but I am also there to help any of the other Board members with their roles and responsibilities. I hope to contribute to the organization by adding my own ideas and perspectives to any of the concepts that are being discussed in the meetings.
Years of experience on the Board?
This is my second year on the Board.
Why did you join the Board?
Because El presidente told me I had to. Haha. Actually, I realized that I was going to many or all of the WORCA events and I wanted to contribute my time to an organization that has given so much to me. Moving to Whistler and not really knowing anyone in town, the events put on by WORCA allowed me to meet so many people and to feel like I was part of the community. Now, being here for more than 10 years, I can say that the WORCA family has really added to my sense of belonging in this community.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
Number one is for sure Working Class to 3 Birds! I love that combo of trails. Second would probably be Flashback over to Tunnel Vision or Heavy Flow.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
That you can be in a room with people that all love the same thing. Biking!!
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Definitely post-ride Coca-Cola!! Then I can contemplate a beer.
Best part of the 2025 riding season?
The best part of the 2025 riding season for me was the fact that I was able to do more riding than anticipated due to tearing my ACL in Dec 2024! Trust me, this is a big WIN!!!
Name:
Rachel Chambers
Profession?
Teacher at Whistler Secondary School
Describe your position/role:
I’m the Director of Special Events. This means that I’m overseeing and running our larger events, including The Back Forty, The Witsend and The Hillman. I’m keen to carry on the great work that created these races and develop them to get more riders feeling the stoke of participating in these awesome events.
Years of experience on the Board?
It’s my first year.
Why did you join the Board?
I love mountain biking and wanted to support the work that WORCA does. I’ve volunteered and worked for many bike races and events, so when Dale gave me the nudge, it seemed like a great way to give back.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
LSD- An under-the-radar trail, but I really love this as a no-stress in nature ride that I usually add on to larger laps in Cheakamus. It has a few beautiful waterfalls and bridges, ends close to Loggers Lake for summer dips, and is what a physio should order for when you’re injured but still need to pedal.
LESS- A long enough ride to warrant good snacks and always rides well (thanks to Dan and the team!).
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
The community, especially the volunteers!
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Post-ride cake.
Best part of the 2025 riding season?
The fall this year was pretty good; it felt like we got so many sunny last laps!
Name:
Olly Duquemin
Profession?
Describe your position/role:
As Community Events Director, I help support WORCA’s legendary Toonie rides—though Laura deserves credit for most of the heavy lifting! My focus is on developing new, fun social events that align with WORCA’s core values and strengthen our community. I’m here to assist the Board in any way I can, bring fresh ideas to the table, and make sure our events continue to be something riders look forward to.
Years of experience on the Board?
This will be my first year.
Why did you join the Board?
I’ve spent 13 seasons riding Whistler’s trails, and this year marks my tenth year of calling this place home. Joining the Board felt like the perfect way to give back to the trails and to WORCA. When I heard there was an open spot, the timing couldn’t have been better! I’m stoked to help keep the Toonie rides awesome, pitch in wherever I can, pick up some new skills, and share my perspective. Got ideas for social events? Track me down at a Toonie—I’d love to hear them!
Two favourite Whistler trails?
My favorite trail is usually the last one I rode. If I had to choose, I’d say anything on the west side—because the west side is the best side! I’ll never turn down a Blackcomb lap though. #KeepWhistlerJanky
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
When I’m out riding, grinding up a climb, I often think about how lucky I am to be on these incredible, well‑maintained trails—and they’re free to ride. (Of course, buying a membership is the least you can do.) Then on Thursday evenings, I show up for a Toonie ride and I’m blown away: I get to ride, eat, drink, and even win some amazing prizes.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Coffee before, during and after.
Best part of the 2025 riding season?
The best part of my 2025 riding season was tackling Lord of the Squirrels with my dad and getting to show my niece around the bike park.
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 fourth 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 2025 riding season?
I had the great privilege of joining a few rides with some of our local builders, including several members of WORCA's trail crew! There's no better guide down a trail, and it's great to hear stories about the challenges and successes of all their hard work. I also got to play guide myself for a couple of days, for a friend who had never ridden in Whistler. It was amazing to hear how much they loved our trails, and it made me remember how lucky we are to be part of such a great community of riders and trail lovers.
Name:
Sarah Hryciw
Profession?
Professional Engineer. I’m a manufacturing consultant and also work for a youth STEM outreach non-profit.
Describe your position/role:
Director of Advocacy. In this role, I hope to foster greater inclusion, and ensure that all trail users feel welcome and represented by WORCA. I’m also head of catering for trail nights.
Years of experience on the Board?
I’m new this year!
Why did you join the Board?
I think WORCA plays a vital role in our community, not just in maintaining and advocating for trails, but in bringing people together through shared outdoor experiences. That’s why I’m committed to engaging underrepresented groups who enjoy WORCA’s trail network, including seniors, trail runners, dog walkers, and riders who prefer green and blue flowy trails like me. I want everyone to feel that they belong in Whistler’s trail culture.
Two favourite Whistler trails?
I love following around Ben and the Chief Stick Officer, maintaining trails all over the valley. My favourites are the blues around Lost Lake and Green Lake and Muffin Man holds a special place in my heart.
What’s your favourite thing about WORCA?
I love the WORCA community and our volunteers! There’s nothing better than sharing a well-deserved bowl of Witsend Soup with the crew.
Pre-ride coffee or post-ride beer?
Pre-ride coffee. A fancy one. With oat milk.
Best part of the 2025 riding season?
Volunteering at the Hillman finish line. I love being in the thick of all the action!
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 third 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
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, and managing our membership system. 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?
2026 will be my 9th 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 right now I would say Flashback and Lord of the Squirrels, especially after the great trail crew work in 2025.
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?
Probably more like pre and post-ride electrolytes to feel good during and after each ride!
Best part of the 2025 riding season?
Toonie Rides and Bike Park laps during the main season and then 3 weeks of exploring the mountain bike trails in Tasmania in November was amazing!
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.