BMX athletes in Nanaimo, B.C., now have access to an upgraded Marie Davidson BMX Track, following a $1.9 million renovation. Designed by Olympic BMX track builder Tom Ritz Design, the track features a recycled concrete and asphalt foundation, sealed with a dust suppressant and soil stabilizer, allowing for year-round use as the only track of its kind on Vancouver Island. The facility also includes a five-metre start hill, an official’s platform, and an increased track surface area. The track has been well-received by riders like Maple Nychyporuk, who appreciates the larger size and increased rhythm of the new track compared to the old one.
Funding for the upgrades came from various sources, with $1.5 million provided by the Canada Community-Building Fund and $330,000 from B.C.’s Growing Communities Fund. The Nanaimo BMX Association also contributed $50,000 towards the project. The president of the association, Craig Hashimoto, expressed gratitude for the support from the City of Nanaimo in revitalizing one of the oldest BMX tracks in the province. While the track is currently open for casual and club use during the day, preparations are underway to install a hydraulic start gate and compressor in the spring before competitions can officially begin. An official opening is scheduled for 2025, with the track set to host the Harbour City Nationals event in July.
Nine-year-old rider Maple Nychyporuk and 18-year-old rider Ryley Cofield both praised the new track for its improved features and the opportunities it presents for training and competition. Nychyporuk highlighted the track’s larger size and enhanced rhythm, while Cofield emphasized how the new track will help riders like him prepare for higher-standard races and improve their skills. The new track has received positive feedback from riders who appreciate the upgrades and look forward to utilizing the facility for their training and competitive needs.
The City of Nanaimo’s investment in the redevelopment of the BMX track reflects a commitment to supporting local sports and recreational facilities. The upgraded Marie Davidson BMX Track now offers a modernized and improved space for BMX athletes to hone their skills and compete at a higher level. The inclusion of a year-round track on Vancouver Island provides riders with a unique opportunity to train during all seasons, contributing to the growth and development of BMX in the region. With plans for official competitions and events on the horizon, the renewed track is poised to become a hub for BMX enthusiasts on the island.
Overall, the upgraded Marie Davidson BMX Track in Nanaimo, B.C., represents a significant improvement for local BMX athletes, offering a state-of-the-art facility for training and competition. With support from various funding sources and the dedication of the Nanaimo BMX Association, the track now provides a larger, more challenging, and year-round track for riders of all ages and skill levels. The impact of the renovations will be felt throughout the BMX community, as riders benefit from enhanced facilities and opportunities to develop their talents. The completion of the project marks a milestone for BMX in Nanaimo, setting the stage for a new era of growth and success in the sport.
