WHISTLER, BC, April 1, 2008 -- Investigators have uncovered a scandal involving North America's premier ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb, and the notorious and unpredictable 'Old Man Winter.'

According to investigators, Whistler Blackcomb paid Old Man Winter an undisclosed sum of money to "delay the arrival of Spring." Whistler Blackcomb has received a total of 959 cm (31.5 feet) of snow so far this season due to Old Man Winter. This transaction also resulted in the arrival of 170cm of snow throughout the month of March, including one incident where 31cm (12 inches) of snow fell over a 24-hour period.

Old Man Winter denies allegations that he accepted money to rough up Spring.

"Look, these allegations are false," he told reporters earlier today. "I was just doing my job here. The skiers and riders wanted snow so that�s what I gave �em. I�m not responsible for any harm done to Spring."

Whistler Blackcomb refused to comment.

However, further evidence indicates that while Old Man Winter held on to his end of bargain, Whistler Blackcomb was working on the back-end with its own snowmaking department.

Jodie McCutcheon, Snowmaking Senior Supervisor for Whistler Blackcomb disclosed that the mountain has been busy pumping 4.2 million gallons of water throughout the month of March to ensure excellent snow coverage for skiers and riders in the event that Spring does appear.

Meanwhile, skiers and riders appear happy with the delay of Spring and are busy enjoying the 267cm base (8.8 feet).

Spring is now suing both Whistler Blackcomb and Old Man Winter, claiming they are breaking international weather rights. The case is ongoing, but with this morning�s bite of frost in the valley, experts are indicating this could be a lengthy trial.

Consistently ranked as North America's top ski and snowboard resort, Whistler Blackcomb continues to raise the level of mountain excitement for its guests. With the landmark Peak to Peak Gondola project underway, the return of the popular Symphony Amphitheatre, and a host of other on-mountain improvements, this winter promises to be one of the most exciting yet. Located a scenic two-hour drive north of Vancouver up the spectacular 'Sea to Sky' Highway, this resort is home to the continent's two greatest vertical-rise ski mountains - Whistler and Blackcomb. With over 17 alpine bowls, four glaciers, 200 trails, 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and a one mile vertical rise, the choices of where and what to ski/ride at Whistler Blackcomb from beginner to advanced terrain are staggering. Joined at the base by a vibrant pedestrian village filled with restaurants, patios, cafes, shops, galleries and spas, and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this four season resort is spectacular. Check it all out at whistlerblackcomb.com.