The Nanaimo BMX community is celebrating the grand reopening of the Marie Davidson BMX Track following a significant $1.9 million renovation, transforming it into Vancouver Island’s sole year-round BMX facility. This upgrade, spearheaded by Olympic BMX track designer Tom Ritz, replaces the former track with a state-of-the-art design constructed from recycled concrete and asphalt, sealed with a dust suppressant and soil stabilizer, ensuring riders can now enjoy the thrill of BMX regardless of the weather. The previous seasonal limitations of the old track are now a thing of the past, offering local riders and those across Vancouver Island an unparalleled opportunity for consistent training and practice. This development marks a significant step forward for the sport in the region, addressing the long-standing need for a weatherproof training ground.
The revitalized track boasts an impressive array of new features designed to enhance the riding experience and challenge BMX athletes of all levels. A prominent five-meter start hill promises adrenaline-pumping starts, while a dedicated official’s platform allows for effective race management and observation. The expanded track surface, now a sprawling 4,000 square meters, a substantial increase from the original 2,800 square meters, provides ample space for riders to maneuver and execute complex techniques. This comprehensive redesign promises an elevated BMX experience, catering to seasoned riders and beginners alike, fostering a vibrant and dynamic BMX community in Nanaimo.
The positive impact of the upgraded track is already resonating with riders. Nine-year-old Maple Nychyporuk, a five-year BMX veteran, enthuses about the track’s increased size, improved rhythm, and the challenge posed by the new start hill, appreciating the step up from the “meh” old track that had become too easy. Eighteen-year-old Ryley Cofield, a seasoned international competitor, underlines the significance of the upgrade in preparing local athletes for high-level competitions. The new track’s higher standards align with international circuits, providing crucial training grounds for riders aiming to compete on the global stage, eliminating the previous training disadvantage faced by Nanaimo riders.
The funding for this ambitious project reflects a collaborative effort between various levels of government and the local BMX community. The Canada Community-Building Fund, administered by the Union of BC Municipalities, contributed a substantial $1.5 million, while the B.C. Growing Communities Fund provided an additional $330,000. The Nanaimo BMX Association further demonstrated its commitment by contributing $50,000. This shared investment underscores the recognized value of the BMX track as a vital community asset, promoting healthy lifestyles and offering a world-class training facility for aspiring and seasoned athletes.
Craig Hashimoto, president of the Nanaimo BMX Association, expresses immense pride in the revitalization of one of the province’s oldest BMX tracks. Acknowledging the historical significance of the original facility, he emphasizes the need for the upgrade to meet the evolving demands of the sport. Hashimoto commends the City of Nanaimo for its substantial support in making the redevelopment a reality, highlighting the importance of community partnerships in creating and maintaining valuable recreational infrastructure. This revitalized track now stands as a testament to the City’s commitment to supporting athletic endeavors and fostering a vibrant community space.
While currently open for daytime casual and club use, the track awaits the spring installation of the hydraulic start gate and compressor before official competitions can commence. The grand opening celebration is slated for 2025, promising a momentous occasion for the BMX community. However, the new track won’t remain idle in the meantime. It is scheduled to host the Harbour City Nationals in July, providing an early opportunity for riders to showcase their skills and experience the enhanced track firsthand. This event will serve as a preview of the exciting competitions to come, further igniting the enthusiasm for BMX in Nanaimo and beyond.
