Calgary, Alta. (November 29, 2022) — Rooster tails of fresh powder trail a trio of ski racers as they shred in formation down Whistler Mountain.  While probably not the best conditions to hone their racing lines, judging from the big grins on their faces (covered with snow) after their run, it really didn’t matter to Mat Leduc - Former Team Canada Ski Cross, Tristan Rodgers - Paralympic Silver Medalist or Jonathan “Bear” Yeung - Alpine Canada’s youngest member of The Podium Club.  They were having fun skiing, and that’s all it matters.  

Serendipitously Bear met Tristan when he volunteered his free time to help train Mat’s U12 team (which Bear was on) at the Whistler Mountain Ski Club.  They bonded over their mutual love of speed, hot chocolate and gummy bears.  Tristan introduced Bear and his family to his Para-Alpine partner Mac Marcoux.  Mac is a Para-Alpine legend, multi Paralympic medalists and a three time World Para-Alpine Skiing World Cup title holder.  

Bear was deeply inspired by Mac and Tristan’s determination, their unwavering trust and courage to challenge themselves to compete at the highest levels.  Bear admired; “They fought against the odds and worked really hard for their dreams.”  Mac and Tristan became Bear’s heroes by proving to him that anything is possible if you possess the persistence, put in the effort and summon the courage to realize your dreams.  

Bear wanted to help Mac, Tristan and other Para-Alpine athletes: ” I am greatly inspired by the transformational donation that was made by Tim Dattels ( Alpine Canada’s board chair) to ACA earlier this year! I’m happy to support Alpine Canada’s Para-Alpine Team and I’m very proud to be part of the Podium Club.”  Bear remains committed to the Team and followed up with another donation to support Alpine Canada this year.  

In addition to helping Para-Alpine athletes, this remarkable 12 year old has been actively helping his community, especially to other kids.  

Bear shares: “I care about my community so I try to be helpful, especially to kids who are sick or have special needs.  My parents taught me that it takes a community to help a community, so I’ve been helping mine since I was 7.”