05/13/2026
“Partaking in Triple Plank and having the opportunity to create an award in tribute to Martin Gallant was humbling,” says , craftsperson of this year’s inaugural “Slashhhh Award” honouring our friend Martin Gallant, who sadly passed away from cancer.
brought unmatched energy to Triple Plank every year — hyping everyone up and even building the banked slalom start shack one season (seen in the shot of Lenny dropping in, 2023). For the award, Lenny incorporated wood specimens collected from Martin’s house into the piece itself.
“He had such a deep appreciation for the spalting and figure in maple,” says Lenny. “Martin led by example and carved his own path through life with energy, flair, style, and a unique way of being.
“One of the qualities we all loved most about Martin was his ability to tell stories. At we believe storytelling is a superpower, and Martin had mastered it. He could captivate you completely, pulling you into the present moment with his dynamism. It may have been his broken English or his attitude — either way, his energy was infectious and deeply woven into our snowboard community. Triple Plank is a testament to community, and Martin was — and will continue to be — part of it. Huge props to Nat and for bringing Martin out in style to this year’s Plank and for everything they do to keep his spirit alive.”
“To the organizers, and it felt clear that the ‘Da Good Life Award’ should go to JF Pelchat. When we looked at his energy, his contributions to the community, and his natural ability to tell stories, he stood out immediately. He comes days early to help dig the course, sessioned with his girls and crew, and spread good energy everywhere he goes, especially when the shirt comes off.”
Martin and JF first met in kindergarten, reconnected through snowboarding as teenagers, and later shared the early Whistler snowboard scene (and showed the world that the French Canadian scene was a force to reckon with). Their impact helped shape the culture and community we continue to celebrate today.
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