A large field of professionals and other riders from the region are expected to compete in the Aidan Webber Memorial Race on Sept. 9. (Dreamstime)

By Dan Marshall

Remembering Aidan

Nanaimo BMX to host fourth annual Aidan Webber Memorial Race

Sep 2, 2023 | 5:59 AM

NANAIMO — An annual BMX race remembering a local rider is returning once more.

The Aidan Webber Memorial Race and Pro Am will be at the Marie Davidson Bike Park on Saturday, Sept. 9 with between 200 and 300 competitors expected.

Co-organizer Nicole Webber said many professional and amateur riders who raced with her son make a point of returning to Nanaimo for this event.

“The same group do come out with extras joining each year. Alex and Ryan Tougas are both national team riders who raced with Aidan. Ben Leslie is a local who was a pro the same time as Aidan. Dylan Butcher is an amazing dirt jumper and Lucas Feguson is another racer who usually comes back.”

The weekend has been specifically chosen this year not to clash with other BMX events on the pro circuit. It should allow riders from the Island and mainland to attend.

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Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with the racing at 1 p.m.

There will also be dirt jumping throughout the day.

The Aidan Webber Legacy fund continues to be active as well with beer and burger fundraiser set for the Old City Quarter Pub on Friday, Sept. 8.

Aidan passed away in a workplace accident in March 2018 and the legacy fund was set up in his name to promote youth participation in cycling and sport.

Nicole said the fund is giving back to the local community.

“We have concentrated on awarding bursaries to a child in the Nanaimo/Ladysmith school district. In the past they’ve received a $1,500 scholarship based on need. These bursaries are for those moving on to post secondary while being a community builder and athletic.”

With the Memorial Race going into it’s fourth year Webber noted help has come from all over the Island

“I raised my kids for the first half of their BMX careers in the Comox Valley and the Cumberland track has many volunteers that come and assist with this race. My son Quinn and I live in Parksville now and the BMX track in Qualicum are a great community of riders who knew Aidan and some of them will be coming, as well as families from Victoria BMX”.

Details of the race are online at the Nanaimo BMX Facebook page.

The donation site for the Aidan Webber Legacy Fund can be found here.

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