A group of investors including freeski superstars Seth Morrison and Tanner Hall has acquired cat-skiing and boarding company Retallack Resort and Alpine Adventures Ltd. The new Retallack now will be based in Nelson, British Columbia.

The investors – all of whom are expert skiers, snowboarders or other adventure sports enthusiasts – are already working hard on improvements to Retallack’s winter operations, as well as a major overhaul of the company’s summer business.

Retallack Managing Director, Chris McNamara, said that the new owners were thrilled to have acquired some of the best terrain in the backcountry skiing and boarding industry, and excited about their plans to realize the company’s full potential.

“Retallack is now 100 per cent owned by skiers, snowboarders and other adventure sports enthusiasts – that means our decisions are made by riders, for riders,” he said.

“Our first priority is to build on Retallack’s reputation for outstanding terrain by providing exceptional service to both new and existing customers.”

The new owners would take care to ensure that the revamp of Retallack’s operations was in keeping with the company’s status as the greenest backcountry skiing and boarding destination in Canada, Mr McNamara stressed.

Retallack Director Sales and Marketing, Phil Pinfold, said that the company was honored to welcome Morrison and Hall on board as investors.

“Seth Morrison and Tanner Hall are two of the greatest freeskiers the world has ever seen – the fact that they are willing to invest in Retallack is a testament to the legendary quality of our terrain and snow,” he said.

In addition to Morrison and Hall, Retallack’s new ownership also includes a strong local contingent.

The new owner’s have committed to a multi-year improvement plan. Immediate plans include a revamped guiding program, new staff accommodation, and the purchase of two new biodiesel-powered snowcats for the 2007/08 winter season. Further details will be announced with the launch of company’s new website next month.

Retallack is situated on the banks of the Kaslo River deep in the heart of the Selkirk Mountain Range, approximately one hour’s drive from Nelson. Located 3,000 feet (1,000 metres) above sea level and surrounded by majestic peaks reaching as high as 10,000 feet (3,000 metres), the lodge holds a three-and-a-half star rating from the Canada Select Accommodations Rating Programme, which reserves its three- and four-star ratings for “above average” and “exceptional” accommodation respectively.