Crankworx 2013 - Views From the Village

Aug 12, 2013 at 12:15
by Richard Cunningham  

None of the following images have much to do with bikes, but they convey a telling aspect of the week-long festival. We haven't lost our souls to technology. We come here to ride. We come here to be with our friends.
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Author Info:
RichardCunningham avatar

Member since Mar 23, 2011
974 articles

108 Comments
  • 41 6
 This is what I love about Whistler, such a dog friendly town, and the dogs are so freaking awesome!!! Best decision I ever made moving to Whistler from Australia!!
  • 3 10
flag SFRacing (Aug 13, 2013 at 0:12) (Below Threshold)
 Yeah true, but I also begrudge the amount of Aussies here sometimes :-P the lure of amazing riding and lift access got me!!!
  • 5 1
 yeah!!! i would never move to whistler if it wasan't such a dog frendly town!!! me and my big bad dog....
  • 4 33
flag philip92 (Aug 13, 2013 at 3:20) (Below Threshold)
 That sucks, fucking overpopulation. I always wanted to live there, and now not anymore. Why do get the beautifull places always get fucked by humanity....
  • 6 1
 @beatifix "You couldn't throw a snowball without hitting an Australian" haha made me laugh
  • 2 25
flag DragRider (Aug 13, 2013 at 3:41) (Below Threshold)
 dont care who live there as much it concerns riding bike or snowboard but get the dog's out of the slope plz Smile
  • 7 3
 I love how the URL is Crankworx 2103, even comes up like that if you share it on Facebook. The "locals" in Whistler are often quite bitter and entitled. One had a moan at me for wearing a helmet while snowboarding. Naturally I told him where to go. It's still the best place on earth.
  • 18 6
 Are you guys crazy? Let's start with Philip, Whistler is not over populated. Especially if you're from the Netherlands, but even by Canadian/North American standards, it's not. The town has 1/10th the population density of your entire country. And that's the actual town. Go to the village during crankworx, and yeah, it can feel overpopulated.

And the locals here are all super nice. Aussies are great, and would be my #1 choice of any group to take over a town I live in, but it doesn't mean that the locals aren't friendly. First of all, it was started in the 60's so you're not going to find a lot of people that didn't move there from somewhere else. Even people that have lived here for 20+ years are still stoked on the place. I've met the odd bitter old hippy that's been here too long for his own good Wink but in the 2 years I've lived here 99% of the people are extremely happy to still be here.

And I gotta be skeptical on the helmet thing. Everyone wears helmets on the slopes now, why would he call you out? And how do you know he was a local?

All you gotta do is get out there and start talking to people in this town and you realize how awesome it is and the people that inhabit it are. Best place on earth filled with the best people on earth!
  • 4 3
 I never said he called me out. We were talking in the gondi for a bit before he started on the whole helmet thing, but you better believe me when I tell you that he was having a proper moan about it before I silenced him with some concussion stats and my own personal experience. He then proceeded to stfu. It is the best place on earth but it is filled with people just like anywhere else, and of course the bitter old twat (Like the guy I met).
Having researched it as a resort for an MSc course I can tell you that the population density (I think you need to look up this term because from the way you're using it I don't think you understand it) is actually very high for a town of its size, and the true population is not represented by census because most of it is transient. Technically there are around 10,000 residents of the area. However, the true population at any one time is estimated to be many times this. It is a fact that there are not enough bedrooms in Whistler for the number of people estimated to be there by census stats. This problem is compounded by the fact that affordable housing is one of Whistler's biggest problems, especially due to development legislation in the area.
Whistler is a great place but don't throw around your generalisations without getting your facts straight. And I can assure you that I am the wrong person to argue with about this, I know the tourism and development aspects of that area inside out.
  • 1 2
 agreed. i've been to whistler every crankworx/joyride fest. i learned early that it's good to hit the last weekend of the festival and then to stick around for the week after. it's a pretty sweet transition from total mayhem, party, and perhaps too many of us tour-ons all over the place, to a full on exodus and nearly an abandoned village scene in comparison. it's a nice breath of fresh air for us and for the locals ... until, of course, the next event that rolls through town with another batch of folks. great place, and the ebb and flow of people and events all year round there is what keeps us coming back! on our way thursday morning ... with our 2 sheps as well of course. they love the place and all the smells, oooooeeee .. braaaapp!
  • 1 2
 You're right the place never feels that crowded except at Crankworx and Telus, but redrook is dead on, the population is way bigger than everyone thinks. I didn't really meet anyone that wasn't sharing a room with at least one or two (sometimes a lot more) other people. And I met the odd narky local that likes to moan at kids too when I was there. But like he (redrook) also said, it is the best place on earth. I wish I could get across there more often.
  • 1 2
 Absolutely, it's a fantastic place and I love it to bits. Which is why it annoys me when people defend it with BS rather than the true, awesome facts about it.
  • 3 2
 Once, I tried to ride with my Golden Retriever (named Rowdy, {for a reason}) and he kept on biting my leg...
  • 1 2
 @coupstair: Probably won't get that week-after-emptiness this year as Ironman Canada is happening the weekend after Crankworx.
  • 5 4
 I don't know what BS facts you think I used to defend Whistler, but even if you take into account the tourists at the height of the busiest times in Whistler, it still has a lower population density than the Netherlands. Hell, if every bed was full and people were sleeping on couches, it's still less populated than most places in Europe. Scotland would be one of the exceptions. And yes, I understand population density, it's not the most complicated equation (pop. per km²). Wink And for the record, I wasn't arguing with you about this stuff, I was pointing out the hypocrisy in Philip's post. But now that I know you studied Whistler for a school course, I will refrain, as you must be an expert. lol What do I know, I just live here.

Look at me though, sounding like a bitter local. Big Grin Truth is I love this place and I do take issue with your original post saying locals are bitter and entitled. I just don't see it. They're awesome people that really accept that this place is a tourist attraction and so many are willing to go the extra mile to make sure people visiting have a great stay. It's also an awesome place to live. Expensive? yeah, but we moved here because housing was actually CHEAPER than in Vancouver and we could afford a house.
  • 4 5
 Living somewhere is not a credential in itself. I live in Scotland but I know bugger all population stats about it. Having researched Whistler in terms of sustainable tourism I can assure you I know the stats. I live on earth, but I know nearly nothing compared to all existent knowledge. Also, as I said, population density does not actually account for the genuine population at any given time, which is actually likely to be as high, if not higher than the Netherlands (404 p sq Km). Officially Whistler's pop dens is (57) which is a complete load of bs. Factor in transient workers, tourists and of course, those with no paper trail, and it is a lot higher than 404, considering it is only a few sq km and there are tens of thousands of people there at season highs. Oh and your affordable housing BS is exactly that. Housing is not cheaper on average in Whistler than in Van. Hence you municipality is currently under pressure to provide more affordable housing, and is also under pressure to kerb migrancy in the area while providing for more sustainable tourism from orgs like IIED who are pushing frameworks like TNS. In this regard however, Whistler is ahead of quite a few other resort communities in terms of provision.
  • 3 3
 JScott, sometimes you just have to accept that someone else knows their shit.
  • 5 2
 I retract the bitter and entitled remark, that's an unfair generalisation. But a small minority are, unfortunately those are the ones which stand out for that very reason. Usually if you're working and you try to tell them off/tell them what to do, and they give you shit about "not even being from here" and "you just don't get how it works here", right after they've jumped the queue or broken some safety rule. Because, you know, if you're local why should you abide by the rules that everyone else has to? That's what irked me about some people. But like I said, they were the small minority, Hence I'll probably be moving back in the next 2 or 3 years! Hopefully even see you around JScott!
  • 7 4
 holy shit everyone is missing the real problem! Asians
  • 4 4
 Whistler is not a few sq kms, it's 161 sq kms. so in order to put Whistler over 404/per sqkm they would need 65,000 people. Will Whistler have that many people at one time? Yes, but you don't count Boston's population density on that day of the marathon do you? Wink Whistler has a population of 10,000 full time and 20,000-30,000 transient That makes a population density of 248 per sq km at the high end. If every bed is full (whistler has a bed cap of 62,000 and roughly 55,000 are developed) then you might approach the higher end of the population density, but that's not a true reflection on the population of a town.

As for the housing stats. Whistler, like any resort town, has a shortage of affordable housing for the residents. But I wasn't pulling numbers out of my ass when it comes to Whistler vs. Vancouver www.theglobeandmail.com/life/home-and-garden/real-estate/whistler-real-estate-a-bargain/article7321682 This article (and you can look up supporting references online) clearly shows that Whistler housing is cheaper than Vancouver. Can there be discrepancies in a study like this? yes, but working in finance, development and real estate myself, I know for a fact you can get more for your money in Whistler than you can in Vancouver. I've worked in both markets and it's not even close. Look it up right now. And don't go comparing Surrey or Burnaby... We're talking Vancouver vs Whistler.

So, yes cheeselord, I would accept that someone knows their shit, WHEN they know their shit. But no amount of downvotes you guys give me changes the fact Whistler A.) has a lower population density than the netherlands (even if you cherry pick the peak times) B.) has cheaper housing than Vancouver. C.) locals are nice.... okay, this is debatable. lol And I'm not helping right now.

But, all disagreements aside, I'd have a beer with you anytime redrook, since you're from Scotland, and more importantly Edinburgh. So you're alright in my books. Smile
  • 2 4
 Yeah, it's a pretty stupid argument. Maybe I'll just head on down and go heckle my buddies in the Garbanzo DH going on right now. Cheers!
  • 2 1
 In the Netherlands live about 16 - 17.000.000 people.. If you compare the population in Whistler with the Netherlands. I think there are many people walking around. That is what it sounds like, right? in a comparison like that.

I've always thought that Whistler was a nice quiet little town, with less people who love nature, cycling, wintersports... I love that.
Yeah it can be busy, but it's a paradise for people who love sports. I just never thought it was that popular..
Sorry for the shitty comment, i am actually glad that it got so many negative votes, showing that people not think that about Whistler. I just read the article about tourism, popular, party shit.. and was like, ohh, there goes my dream..
  • 3 5
 Whistler is a really quiet little town actually. You have to come down and see it. It gets busy in the village on weekends and during events. but you can escape it very easily. When I first moved out here I thought it would be all about money, flashy tourism, but it's not. It's a nice family resort. You can ride trails all day long and avoid basically everyone, but the park can get busy during crankworx and weekends. But other than that, it's really a great place. Sorry to get defensive with your original comment, but it just shows how much we love it here!
  • 2 1
 Thanks! Planning to go next summer to Whistler, just for vacation.
I should have shut up until i actually have been there.

I am feeling the Whistler love again, WHOO!! Big Grin
  • 3 1
 JScott, I'm curious how your (canadian) house mortgages work exactly. Cuz my american math shows that at around $2000 a month for a $350k house, with $70,000 down and a grand total of $600k+ with interest by the end. That seems pretty expensive, given resort town wages are usually "okay" pay. And I'm also planning a trip to Whistler. Hitting my brothers home town of Portland and then mapping a trip north, hitting what ever is rideable on the way. I had a friend who flew out there for a TREK new model release day. Said it was awesome.
  • 4 1
 It is not a cheap place to live. It's not cheaper than Van, hence why most people I met in "normal" salaried jobs who were permanent residents tend to live in Squamish or Pemberton. A half a million $ house is not cheap imo. Despite all of this it is a fantastic place, but noone should buy the quaint little mountain town image, because it is not that. It is a bustling, lively, colourful place full of people and things going on. It is constantly alive save for the few weeks between summer and winter seasons, then it is pretty dead. But otherwise, it's busy. No, it's not downtown London (UK not OT) or Van, but for a town that size it is busy.
  • 2 2
 Wall of text turns me off. Essay site usthat way>>>
  • 3 2
 less skanky aussie chicks and more local (or Canadian) girls would free up some space. i know i'll get neg propped for saying that. i said "skanky", the non-skanky ones are alright. aussies in general are a hell of a lot cooler than americans in any case.
  • 3 2
 ITT: retards arguing about over-population in a country that has less than 4 people living per square km.
  • 4 1
 @DarrenDouche, I think I read somewhere that 85% of Canadians live within 100 miles (160km) of the US border, so someone might be right or not.. Whistler is in that range... haha.. All I know is Whistler looks like a fun place to be if you ride a mountain bike... Whom ever lives close and can ride there regularly is pretty lucky...
  • 3 0
 @oldschool, payments in that scenario would be closer to $1200 per month, but you're not getting much for $350K in Whistler. And to be honest redrook, you can't even get a house for half a million. Notice I didn't say it was cheap, it's just cheaper than Van. Wink It is though, seriously, I lived in Van for 12 years, here for 2 now. Housing is cheaper here. It's just a flat out fact. You guys can downvote all you want, but it won't change that fact. Up until 2009 things were different, but now it's cheaper here. Groceries and eating out in general is more expensive, but most other things are the same. Squamish and Pemby yes, they're cheaper than Whistler.

Isn't this supposed to be about Dogs? Oh, and Whistler is better than Vancouver for dogs too. Wink
  • 22 0
 *waits for the discussion about 29" or 26" dogs being better*
  • 3 1
 As big as possible, don't want my dog breaking when i wrestle with him. Hence I got a Leonberger Smile
  • 4 1
 All these dogs rides a 26"
  • 7 0
 Hm....then my dog really needs some training, since it only seems to ride someones leg from time to time Frown
  • 2 2
 My dog can ride a surfboard....
  • 9 0
 my new 650b dog runs much better over roots
  • 4 1
 Looks like a Sheppard.....
  • 22 3
 It seems pinkbike has gone to the dogs
  • 25 0
 You must be barking mad.
  • 16 0
 The photos gave us time to paws for thought.
  • 5 9
flag reverend (Aug 13, 2013 at 1:36) (Below Threshold)
 Check out that Bitch!
  • 2 6
flag MiniReign580 (Aug 13, 2013 at 3:11) (Below Threshold)
 Thats no way to talk about a lady
  • 15 0
 So if a cat has 9 lives, does a dog get a new leash on life?
  • 2 5
 yep i couldn't see a bike even on the background Wink PINKDOG has nothing common with PINKBIKE Smile
  • 6 0
 Dam PB, road PODs and Dog features? Oh no, I bet I'm in the doghouse with that comment...
  • 3 1
 JK, I love my dogs!
  • 3 0
 Hey, if you can't lick 'em, join 'em.
  • 1 2
 this article was bollocks. not the dog's.
  • 8 0
 Ahhh that explains it. I was eating my pizza and noticed RC getting all artistic taking pics of dogs yesterday, I thought he lost his mind lol.
  • 6 0
 I think he did a while ago...
  • 5 0
 Reading some of these posts always makes me laugh.

How can pictures of dogs start a full on debate about population?

Haven't been there for a few years, but heading out again next year.

All I can say it was one of the most friendliest places I have ever been.

It was far from crowded in the summer. Even during crankworx I didn't think it was ridiculous. Yes there are a few people but compared to the devon and Cornwall in the summer it felt tame.
  • 11 5
 Anyone who doesn't like dogs should be put down.
  • 5 0
 Anyone who doesn't like rats should be poisoned Anyone who dosen't like whales should be harpooned Anyone who doesn't like mosquitoes should be beaten to death with a rolled up newspaper.
  • 2 0
 Seeing someone beaten to death with a rolled up newspaper would make one hell of a video for YouTube.
  • 2 0
 Agreed that there is so much more to Whistler than just the bike park, hanging out at the GBB is a must for an afternoon! There are some great people around. However, I have just got back from a trip to Whistler and Silverstar......and I have to say that if I were ever to go back, I would put Silverstar on top of my list. Above Whistler.

Why? Because of the people and the vibe. Much more my kind of thing at Silverstar.
Whistler is great, make no mistake, a great place to hang out for a few days and ride, one of the best in the world that it is difficult to deny. However, you got it in spades Silverstar. Loved it, and all of you. I will be back, maybe not soon ( it costs to get there from here!!), but we will be back!
  • 1 0
 I agree, I think SilverStar is a better bang for the buck. Wait time for the lifts are much shorter too.
  • 3 0
 When in Whistler you've got to experience it doggy style, I mean is there any better way to get some release?
  • 2 0
 Haha nice one! You were more interested in the pretty owners!! I can see all the nail polish around the dogs. You sly guy Rchard!!!
  • 3 0
 Did you notice the nail polish on the dogs? Pic 18
  • 3 1
 I'm glad to see animals, it changes to show us MTB 9000 euros that nobody can afford ...

( Translate by Google )
  • 3 0
 that french bulldogs got a soar neck from that collar..
  • 1 0
 Yep , surprised the owner has not figured that out yet , or doesnt seem to care cos the dogs wearing a nice collar
  • 2 1
 21 is my face after nailing a line that's never been ridden and 20 is my face before it.
  • 1 2
 Can someone tell me why there's a crufts article on the frontpage?

Seriously, nobody cares about whisler or crankworx enough to want to read an article about the dogs that live there.
  • 2 0
 #14 my favourite, as its my dog, HA. Her name is Dakine!!
  • 1 0
 Now that's how a slideshow should work. VitalMTB take note - no page reloading
  • 5 4
 THAT WAS AWESOME!!~!! OH MY GOD YES I LOVE PUPS HELL YAAA WEEEEW IM GUNNA PET SO MANY PUPS THIS WEEKEND AHH
  • 1 0
 All the big dogs want a treat. All the small dogs want the camera out of their face.
  • 1 0
 No love for the best dog in there, the one that happens to share a name with a very popular fork? The Boxer!!
  • 1 0
 Yea, I think Crankworx or Whistler should get a bike/dog event going, something like trials/agility in the Olympic Plaza!
  • 1 0
 I liked the photo essay about the girls of mountain biking at crankworx better than this one about the bitches of crankworx
  • 5 4
 hmmm.... dog photo's.....
  • 5 8
 Not a big dog person but I'd take the Husky if I had to choose
  • 17 2
 i guess you dont have a best friend then.. i feel sorry for ya!
  • 2 1
 mines beer, problem is you have to get a new one every now and then
  • 3 0
 Living in an apartment blows Frown
  • 3 2
 Haha the Weiner dog was thinking about going for the flip whip
  • 2 1
 Picture 3 is a fucking Ewok i tells ya!
  • 4 2
 Dogs are smelly.
  • 3 0
 "My dog's got no nose."
  • 1 0
 Who runs the shuttles then?
  • 2 1
 Picture 16 = Gremlins ! Smile
  • 2 0
 14 / 22 wins
  • 1 0
 They were some sweet looking bitches. And a few good looking dogs too.
  • 1 0
 best crankworx coverage to date!
  • 1 0
 It's like a village for trail dogs Big Grin
  • 1 0
 you know... numer 3 is... well he is really fuzzy...
  • 1 0
 HOW did this make front page??
  • 1 0
 I see that Boxer is sporting the new ti buckle collar from Rock Shox
  • 1 0
 Nice one from PB. Made me want to bring my street dog there..
  • 1 0
 #7 trail boss. ACD 4 lyf
  • 1 1
 Where is mike levy's dog?
  • 1 1
 you his bulldog ?in his underwear !hahah !
  • 1 0
 21 is saying : NOTBAD
  • 1 0
 Wait whats Whistler?
  • 1 0
 give a dog a bone
  • 1 0
 Boston terrier "feels".
  • 1 2
 You missed the Dogo Argento!
  • 3 5
 Hahahaha didnt know it was a dog show but thats funny!
  • 1 1
 Have you been to Whistler? It's a constant dog show!
  • 2 5
 1, 5, 12, 14, 15, 19, great looking dogs!
  • 2 1
 14 - personal favorite
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