Getting snowboarding tips from Olympic snowboard champion Ross Rebagliati is something most kids only dream about.

The creation of Kelowna Mountain, a new ski resort planned on Chute Lake Road, may make that dream a reality after officially signing Ross Rebagliati as their new director of Snowboarding and Skiing.

The multi phase project has plans to create a four season residential resort including a golf course, ski hill and snowboard park.

Co-owners of Kelowna Mountain, Nicola and Mark Consiglio, are more than excited about having Rebagliati join their project calling it 'a real coup for Kelowna.'

For Rebagliati the decision to move to the Okanangan was easy.

“I am excited about living in Kelowna with its great weather and healthy Okanagan lifestyle.” says Rebagliati.

He adds that the opportunity to plan a mountain literally from the ground up was an offer he couldn't refuse.

“Being a snowboarder and skier, the chance to help design a hill from scratch is something I've always dreamed of doing.” says Rebagliati.

The former Olympic icon also has plans to relocate his school, The Rebagliati Alpine Snowboard Training Academy (RASTA) to Kelowna Mountain where it will officially open next year.

Rebagliati stresses that his academy is not only for pro's but will focus on riders of all levels looking to improve.

He explains that a major goal for Kelowna Mountain is to create a youth amenities orientated facility, something he hopes he can expand on.

"I will definitly be available on a fairly regualr basis for the kids of Kelowna and I'd like to think my presence will help generate new interest in snowboarding and skiing." says Rebagliati.

Although many of the amenities for the resort are still in the early development phase, Kelowna Mountain plans to have the snowboard park and half pipe open for this winter.

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