This past weekend, Lightning Creek Ski Club marked its 50th anniversary at Troll Resort, bringing together generations of athletes, coaches, and supporters for a memorable celebration of community and skiing.
The day began with a dual glalom fun race, followed by a dinner in the lodge where it all began in 1972 with Lars and Astrid Fossberg. The evening program was led by MC and current club president Falko Kadenbach.
Falko welcomed alumnus Ian Grady, who raced with the club in the 1990s. Ian shared an engaging look at the region’s ski history, tracing its roots through the early ski hills in Wells and Quesnel. Representing a four-generation ski racing family, his perspective highlighted the deep heritage of the sport in the area. More on the Troll Ski Resort history from the Canadian Ski Museum.
The evening continued with club founders John Marien and Kris Dittman, who first envisioned Lightning Creek Ski Club in 1976. John reflected on the club’s early days and growth, while one of the most inspiring moments came from Kris—who is visually impaired—returning to the slopes that day to ski and run gates for the first time in over 20 years, a powerful reminder of skill, trust, and passion for the sport.
John also spoke about the early days of the Nancy Greene Ski League, which laid the foundation for the club’s youth programming, and the strong collaboration with Prince George Ski Club to support athlete development in the North.
Denis Wood, the club’s first Alpine Chair (1984), shared stories from the early racing years, including the introduction of electronic timing, the well-known Troll Downhill, and team travel across the province. His reflections emphasized the passion, commitment, and sense of adventure that defined the era.
Falko then carried the story forward into the early 2000s, recognizing key contributors and acknowledging the challenges that led to a temporary pause in operations from 2003 to 2009.
The club’s revival in 2009, led by John Marien, Dianne and Darrel Dagneau, and a dedicated volunteer group, was highlighted by Mike Sakakibara. He spoke about rebuilding the club’s foundation, including major investments in infrastructure such as the clubhouse (2014), timing systems, safety netting, and equipment—driven by strong leadership and community support.
Bringing the story to present day, Falko emphasized the importance of partnerships with clubs, resorts, sponsors, and provincial programs, as well as the continued development of coaches, officials, and volunteers. He recognized key contributors over the years, including longtime coach Karcsi Peter and past Alpine Chair Michelle Klapatiuk, whose efforts helped shape the club’s success.
The celebration also included video messages from BC Alpine CEO Anders Hestdalen and Olympic gold medallist Nancy Greene, both congratulating Lightning Creek on reaching this milestone.
A special recognition was given to John Marien for his lifelong commitment to the club—as founder, coach, and leader. He was presented with a BC Alpine team jacket and 50-year anniversary memorabilia in honour of his enduring impact.
The evening concluded with an open mic and time to reconnect, as past and present members gathered to celebrate five decades of skiing, community, and shared passion.
Congratulations to the Lightning Creek Ski Club!
Club Merchandise!
– Thank you to Falko Kadenbach for sending in this report.