Stoneham (QC), Canada – Last March 2010, Stoneham Mountain Resort north of Quebec City officially became a National Training Center for both locals and worldwide athletes. This winter the resort’s freestyle ski and snowboard offerings are evolving with new infrastructures and services, thanks in part to input from pro rider Nicolas Bonne.nOriginally from France, Bonne was not only part of the team that built the halfpipe for the first Winter X Games Europe held last season in Tignes, France, but also worked for three years as part of HO5 Freestyle Park Development Company, well known for its work in France. This season, Stoneham will be benefit from his expertise.

“I see Stoneham’s Snow Park as a big playground where I’m more than happy to spend the season,” Bonne says.

Stoneham’s TELUS Winter Sports School is now collaborating with Snowboard Firm to offer training to bring both skiers and riders to an elite level. Snowboard Firm is teaching Stoneham’s instructors new skills that will then be transferred to their students. TELUS Winter Sports School is also offering new specialized programs called Young Talents on a seasonal basis or à la carte that target kids who are willing to focus on their favorite specialty, such as freestyle.

Stoneham will host the LG/FIS Snowboard World Cup, Feb. 14-20, 2011. In conjunction with the pro competition, Stoneham will stage the Snowboard Jamboree, a celebration where amateurs can compete and party. Stoneham officials are also already gearing up for the 2013 Snowboard World Championships, Jan. 16-27, 2013.