(This is another in a series of columns about what is new and different at the 12 downhill ski resorts and cross-country ski areas in the Southern Interior.)

Apex Mountain Resort near Penticton has a secret, one even its youthful athletes weren't aware of.

"Despite being based within a smaller mountain community than most of its Thompson-Okanagan counterparts, Apex Freestyle Club recently discovered it is (and is proud to be) the largest freestyle club in the region," said Alexa Chick, head coach and program director.

The club’s membership has exploded by 13 per cent to 110 kids in full-season ski programs and 27 kids in snowboard programs compared to last season, she noted.

AFC is also a B.C. freestyle leader in gender equity, offering female-focused programs in both ski and snowboard as well as boasting more than 40 per cent female coaches.

AFC facilities at the South Okanagan mountain also serve as an international training site for moguls in early winter, welcoming teams from across Canada, U.S., Australia, Korea, Japan and other countries, said Chick.

Teams will arrive ahead of a Canadian selections event, the Canada Cup Series FIS Apex Classic Dec. 18-21 when they will compete for placement in the 2025-26 Canada Cup rankings, and the opportunity to represent their nations on the NorAm and World Cup........

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