192 riders took part in the VIMX event at the Wastelands in Nanaimo on Sunday, May 1. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Dan Marshall

Race Weekend

Nanaimo’s Wastelands buzzing again after second event in VIMX racing series

May 3, 2022 | 3:05 PM

NANAIMO — Nearly 200 racers spent the first day in May competing in a Vancouver Island Motocross (VIMX) event at the Wastelands track.

Nanaimo Motocross president Ward Wiltsey said entrants of all ages took part in the second round of the VIMX Island Championship Series.

“We start with the little ones they’re three to four years old right up. Then we have our pro classes and our 40 plus vet classes.”

Divisions were contested over two races with the results combined to rank competitors.

Some weekend rain did little to dampen atmosphere at the Wastelands, however it did cause some operational challenges with heavy machinery used to help maintain the track in between races.

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“We had to delay our practice to Sunday morning because of weather but other than that it went very well.”

(Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

Wastelands hosted three events in 2021 as regular racing got underway post-pandemic restrictions. Two races were part of the VIMX series while a March season opener served as a club race.

Wiltsey added many kids and adults turned to motocross throughout shutdowns in other sports.

“Our membership at the Wastelands almost doubled through the pandemic. A big percentage of those are new riders. It’s been great for our sport to see new people into it.”

A full list of results for the event is available on the VIMX website, with division winners from the central Island listed below:

• Ramido Galdames (Nanaimo) – 1st, 50cc open
• Baelen Macklem (Qualicum Beach) – 1st, 65cc Open
• Dylan Ramirez (Qualicum Beach) – 1st, 85cc 12-16 years old
• Lucas Evans (Nanaimo) – 1st, Beginner Open
• Nick Syrotuck (Nanaimo) – 1st, Plus 30
• Luca Mihoc (Nanoose Bay) – 1st, Tykes 4-8 years old
  (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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