Sport Tourism Canada’s STEAMPRO economic impact assessment reveals that the 2025 29029 Whistler event generated approximately $2.9 million in total economic activity in British Columbia, including $2.3 million in Whistler alone.
Held on Blackcomb Mountain, the challenge required participants to repeatedly ascend nearly 4,000 feet of vertical gain per climb, completing eight ascents to “reach the summit of Everest” without ever leaving British Columbia. The combination of steep climbs, rugged alpine terrain, and the endurance test of repeated ascents makes 29029 a uniquely demanding physical and mental experience that showcases Whistler as both an outdoor adventure leader and an economic driver.
The 29029 Whistler challenge continues to serve as both a major tourism driver and a signature participant experience for the community. Survey results show that 89% of attendees travelled to Whistler specifically for the event. Many extended their trip, with 67% adding additional days before or after the event, generating increased business for local hotels, restaurants, retailers, and tourism services.
The event also generates long-term value for the destination, as the vast majority of visitors indicated they are likely to return to Whistler. This underscores the lasting tourism and economic benefits that large-scale experiential sport events can deliver.
“Working with Sport Tourism Canada has provided us with credible, third-party reporting that demonstrates the positive impact our event brings to the Whistler community,” shared 29029 founder Marc Hodulich. “We truly value our relationships within Whistler and look forward to many more years of positive impact and meaningful partnership in the local area.”
“We were pleased to support the organizers of 29029 Whistler in evaluating the economic benefits of hosting this unique endurance challenge,” said Derek Mager, Sport Tourism Canada’s Senior Consultant and Program Manager of Economic Impact, who analyzed the data and prepared the report. “The results demonstrate not only the direct contribution to Whistler’s businesses, but also the broader tourism and economic impacts that events like this generate for communities across British Columbia and Canada.”
Are you interested in using primary data collected from event attendees at your event? Work with an STC Economic Impact Consultant to analyze the actual economic impact of your event in a specific Canadian community. Contact Sport Tourism Canada today to learn more.