The Canadian Ski Council (CSC) has announced Hugh Smythe as the recipient of its 2009 CSC Founders Award.

Smythe, the former Whistler Blackcomb (WB) executive who recently retired after 43 years in the industry, is to be honoured with the award at the Canadian State of Ski and Snowboard Industry Conference next Tuesday (July 7) at the Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa.

Smythe, who started as a ski patroller on Whistler Mountain, spearheaded the development of Blackcomb Mountain, having convinced the Aspen Skiing Co. to invest in the project. He directed its construction and its opening in 1980 and was involved its its purchase by Vancouver-based Intrawest in 1986. Smythe retired as senior vice-president of Intrawest Mountain Resorts on March 12, but continues to offer his expertise as an advisor.

“Hugh is one of the most experienced and respected individuals in the ski industry,” Colin Chedore, president Canadian Ski Council, said in a statement issued on Monday (June 29). “Throughout Hugh’s career, his knowledge and expertise has redefined the levels of customer service, safety and guest satisfaction that customers have come to expect when they visit ski destinations around the world.”

Tickets are available for purchase from the Canadian Ski Council at (705) 445-9140.