Robert Parsons

Robert “Bob” Parsons was a prominent figure in the Canadian Alpine ski racing community. He started the C class racing program at Mount Seymour in the late 1960s and earned his credentials as an International Technical Delegate (TD) for the International Ski Federation (FIS). Parsons was the Assistant Chief of Course for the 1972 World Cup at Grouse Mountain. He went on to be Chief of Course for the 1975 World Cup and all National races held in Whistler from 1970 to 1978.

One of Parsons’ significant achievements was his instrumental role in the formation of the Vancouver Ski Team in 1971, which later became the BC Ski Team. He was also a founder of the Vancouver Ski Foundation, which organized the successful Vancouver Ski Show & Swap. The proceeds from this event subsidized many young ski racers. Parsons founded the Weasel Workers, a team of volunteers dedicated to making speed courses safe. The Weasel Workers are renowned for their skills and expertise in race course preparation. Many travel across Canada and beyond to support major Alpine races. They were a key ingredient to Whistler Mountain hosting the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Alpine events.

Parsons’ legacy continues through the Bob Parsons Memorial Downhill, an annual speed race organized by the Whistler Mountain Ski Club. The 2024 event marked the 44^th anniversary, attracting over 70 athletes from Canada and the United States. Each year the Bob Parsons Memorial Fund grants bursaries to aspiring B.C. ski racers in support of their development. Parsons embodied a vision and passion for Alpine racing, always striving for the highest level of everything he touched. He helped to nurture some of the world’s best athletes, in addition to always supporting the grassroots level of young ski racers.