New Website Update

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New Website – project background and update:

In early 2022 member Tom Hudock spearheaded a member survey in an effort to gain a better understanding member’s perceptions about the VMC, our ‘brand’ so to speak. What are the good points, the strengths and what were our weaknesses? One of the recurring comments was the website was old looking and difficult to navigate. There were also a range of negative comments received about the club being old & stodgy, cliquey with some even noting a friction or divide between riders based on different bike types. Others said that they appreciated VMC for its history, Cycle Part for its unique beauty and the opportunity to ride off-road so close to home.

Following a lengthy review of the original survey results, member Bobbi Bjornholt scheduled Member Forums to explore ‘User Wants and Needs’ of a new website. From this it became clear of a desire for a modern looking, updated website with enhanced member functionality. One of the most repeated asks was to allow membership renewal on-line and pay annual dues directly using a credit card right on the website. Another common ‘want’ was to pre-enter and pay entry fees and submit waivers on-line. All of this is in keeping with current practices and wasn’t a huge surprise. We also learned more about security risks and urgent steps need to simply secure ownership of the VMC domain to avoid it being hijacked (which I learned is a real thing).

We carried on exploring options and costs and eventually agreed on contracting with a Vancouver based website studio to design and build an all-new website that would include a host of new attributes and added member services. At the same time, we also did not want to lose any of the club’s history when migrating to the new site. The further we looked at this, the more complex the design became.

Priority One (Phase 1) was to offer our member’s ability to login to their own account and renew their memberships each year. It was decided that Phase One would be followed by the ability to sign up and pay entry fees online. An annual ‘waiver’ was to be included when renewing which would be satisfactory for the entire season.

Finally, after months of delays and mis-steps, it became clear that the design studio we had selected failed to comprehend the VMC’s actual needs. Later it became clear that they had neither the experience or expertise required to build the complex platform we contracted them to do. They we over 6 months late completing Phase1 of the project and it was incomplete and not fully functioning.

When the site was launched on November 1st clearly there were a number of hiccups straight from the gate, with ongoing bugs and glitches encountered. We were forced to terminate that design & build contract and started dialogue with three other potential new web designers to fix the bugs and move this project forward to a positive conclusion. Fortunately, we were referred to Dillon, son of a VMC member. Dillon lives away from VI and works in this world every day. After his in-depth review of our site and drilling into the list of issues we identified we executed a new contract with CTS to repair the issues identified and prep a move forward to improve the overall user experience when logged in to the website. His effort is currently underway with the first update expected to be launched on or about February 1st.

The VMC’s website as it sits today (01/10/2025) is working well for the most part. As of this writing over 200 members have logged in to their account and updated their personal profile with about 150 successfully paying the annual dues directly on the site. To this end, the previous dues payment options remain available. For those that don’t like navigating websites, e-transfer remains the next easiest and safest option.

Detailed member feedback is welcomed as we progress down the path of debugging and generally improving the site. To fix glitches the Tech Man needs have detailed information of what exactly happened, when  and where. Then we can replicate the problem necessary in trouble shooting. Anyone member in need of assistance navigating the site can should committee member Peter Grant text 9053209480.

One thing we Peters2 have learned is a new website build is never ‘done’. There are continued upgrades to be reviewed and added paired with regular maintenance. The world of websites is indeed mired in code words and phrases which are mostly an unknown language for regular mortals.

New Member’s – Responsibilities and Contributions

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from the Lookout by Peter Grant – A Summary and Explanation for New Members

New Member’s – Responsibilities and Contributions

A dictionary’s definition of the word “Club” is an association of people with common interests !  With the start of the new year and the new website launched, with new rules voted on and accepted last year, more responsibility has been given to each and every club member to stay involved and connected and make sure their contact info is kept up to date.

Recently the Executive Committee proposed a tightening of the rules for New Member’s to complete their first year’s ‘requirements of admission’. As required by the Bylaws, this amendment has been put-up for vote at the January meeting for approval by the membership. Essentially this change will allow fast-tracking the revocation of membership if a new member fails to complete their first-year requirements by December 1st. Any new member in this situation will continue to have the opportunity to appeal and request an exception (extension or exemption).

Every new member has basic obligations that must be completed before they are provided with a Gate Key/Fob. If this is asking too much an applicant is welcome to withdraw.

  1. Attend a monthly meeting when invited, where they will be asked to stand for introduction. The applicant’s sponsor should attend as well.
  2. Attend an Orientation Session (approx. 1 hr) as scheduled.
  3. Contribute 2 works days (12 hours) working on a sanctioned project, activity or event. Alternately, members are needed to assist with a number of ongoing committees activities or administrative support.
  4. activities must be recorded both on the New Member Report Card and also logged online in the member’s Personal Profile

The basis of the new member requirements is to ensure they fully understand the history and mission of the VMC, member duties and responsibilities and contributions of support to the club as members have for over 100 years. Cycle Park is not run as if it were a commercial enterprise. Our gem requires each members’ continued contributions to maintain, protect and build, helping both on the property and within the clubs very structure as a Not-For-Profit member run group. If this were a commercial off-road riding area the costs for playing would likely be three, four or more times higher.

We have seen a few replies that don’t seem to accept the principle which says it is every member’s duty to support the VMC.  In the case of new members, what is asked is that they pitch in to help maintain, protect and build upon the legacy that has been given to them and all members. If not for the efforts of our predecessors, the jewel we know today as VMC Cycle Park simply would not exist in any form. Cycle Park is truly unique in Canada. Imagine owning a 170+ acres of riding land within 20 – 25 minutes’ drive from the city core in Vancouver, Calgary or Toronto! To be clear – not all work contributed to the VMC need be holding an axe or shovel. There are basic administrative tasks which might require only an hour a week to complete and take some pressure off others.

Recently we heard from a newer member that didn’t know or understand the reasoning for closing a large section of Cycle Park to riding during the extended dry ‘fire ban’ season. Or why certain areas are ribboned off while being prepped for an event. To those I’d suggest that they need to think about the 100+ year legacy of the VMC, attend a monthly meeting, ask questions of other members and consider what is the core meaning of Club and what are our responsibilities to the club and the general community. Other examples might be: why is the hill-climb course off limits for any daily riding or why are some obscure trails ribboned and closed off?

We’ve also heard that some new admissions found it difficult to attend a 1-hour new member orientation session. Director Brent Donaldson  hosted seven (7) Sessions in 2024 and is seemingly always willing and available to help Orient a new member, about responsibilities and do’s and don’ts. Other new admissions reported that they felt it was a burden to be ‘forced’ to contribute two work days (12 hours) when joining the club. Again, I’d suggest these are people who simply wish to ride off-road somewhere and clearly don’t understand the actual meaning of CLUB. Membership is a privilege not a right.

….. more to come about Sponsor’s Responsibilities on next Lookout

Boxing Day Trial December 26, 2024

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Despite a rainy, windy day 16 riders competed in the damp conditons.

There was a nice mixture of twin shock and and modern bikes.

Brent Roler  was 1st with 0 points lost in over 40 sections.

Ian Cotthier was 2nd with 1 point lost.

Mark Roler was 3rd with 5 points lost.

Special thanks to the Committee:

Hugh Williams

Kevin Ash

Dave Fair

Tristian Barry

 

And thanks to Brent Donaldson for running the Barbeque.

 

A good time was had by all.

 

TMFF Victoria (Toronto) Motorcycle Film Festival March 7, 2025 @ The Vic Theatre

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The 8th annual TMFF motorcycle film festival will take place in Victoria on March 7, 2025

TMFF Motorcycle Film Festival

Schedule & Tickets
Join us at The Vic Theatre on Friday, March 7, 2025 for a night of the newest and best motorcycle films curated from around the world.​​​

Doors open at 7:00 PM.

Show starts at 7:30 PM and ends at approx 10 PM.

Includes a 15 minute intermission.

19+ Event. Licensed Theatre. No Minors Allowed.

Description of films and links:

Free Ride Spirit
The Freeride Spirit is a visually stunning journey that captures the essence of freedom on two wheels. Set against breathtaking landscapes, this film follows enduro riders from different countries and cultures as they soar through vast, untamed terrain, embracing the thrill of riding offroad. With sweeping cinematography reminiscent of classic surfer and skiing films, The Freeride Spirit celebrates the pure, unfiltered joy of motorcycling and the deep connection between rider and landscape.

Motorcycle Mary Born in Alaska on the brink of World War II, Mary McGee’s early years were shadowed by fear. However, under the care of her older brother Jim, she learned to overcome her anxieties – a skill that would prove invaluable on the racetrack. Following Jim’s lead, she embarked on an extraordinary racing career, starting with cars where she consistently outpaced her male rivals. But it was on motorcycles where she found her true passion and sense of freedom, becoming the first woman to race motorcycles in the United States. Despite facing sexism and personal tragedy, Mary’s determination never wavered. She continued to push her limits, becoming the first person to solo the gruelling Baja 500 on a motorcycle.

Why would you do that on that?
Embarking on a solo journey around the globe is an adventure in itself, but doing it on a hand-built, 10-foot long, fully rigid chopper takes a unique kind of courage and determination. Why Would You Do It On That captures a moment in the incredible odyssey of Charlie Weisel, a rider who defies convention at every turn. Director Christian Taro catches up with Charlie on the open road to delve into his extraordinary life, the challenges of his journey, and the one question everyone asks, “Why would you do it on that?”

Days in January
Days In January is a visual meditation on solitude and the quiet strength found in riding alone. Set in the barren, snow-covered landscapes of Scandinavia, this short film follows Emil Duvander as he rides alone through the frigid winter months. With no dialogue, the film immerses you in a world of stark beauty and serene stillness, where you’re left to confront your own thoughts amidst the cold and desolate environment.

The Rider
Unsafe, uncomfortable, unreliable and the only vehicle where you are the windshield, “The Rider” is an extremely savvy and sassy exploration of why on earth real riders entertain insanity and mount these literal death traps. Told through the unique lens of moto-filmmaker Roberto Serrini, his latest documentary “The Rider”, is proudly presented by BMW for their 100th year anniversary which celebrates the (insane) rider in all of us.

While were here
Aaron’s relationship with his dirt bike has been vital throughout his entire life. It has always been his doorway to a sacred space. After experiencing the unexpected loss of his long time partner, Aaron’s relationship with his bike took on an even deeper meaning than he could have ever imagined. By getting on the bike and stepping through that doorway, Aaron was able to grieve and find some semblance of joy in his life again. More than just a machine, his motorcycle has been a passage to healing, growth, and a conduit to feeling close to beloved again.

A wilder Way
Experienced adventure rider, Suzanne Jolly relearned to ride after a head injury and finally feels capable to take her dream trip: an adventure in a remote boat-access only area on British Columbia’s west coast.

She invites three other women to join her, even though they’ve never ridden all together. The crew load their bikes & gear on a small boat, as they explore what it means to truly love adventures in the wilderness. They work together to deal with a number of surprises in a story likely never to be forgotten.

2024 Boxing Day Vintage Trial December 26, 2024

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VMC Vintage  Boxing Day Trial December 26, 2024

Merry Christmas everyone!

Victoria motorcycle club is putting on a fun filled vintage Boxing Day trial on December 26th.

It starts at 9 AM

Dig out your old trials bike’s (Suggested pre-1999 – but bring any bike you want and come play).

There will be no fees, and therefore no trophies, but it will be great fun!

Sections for the vintage are junior and intermediate friendly so modern bikes are welcome.

Sections will be laid out to make them rideable – no heroics required.

There will be a barbecue. (Also looking for volunteers for this – get your 2024 hours in – Call Brent Donaldson 250-532-7644).

Come out and enjoy the improved club facilities, meet old friends, and have fun with the whole family.

 

Congratulations to Roger Boothroyd, the latest VMC inductee into the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame.

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On Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 3 PM at the Aria Conference Centre in Surrey BC Roger will be receiving the 2024 Bar and Hedy Hodgson Award.

This award is given to those who have contributed to the Betterment of Motorcycling in Canada.

If you wish to attend and support Roger, (tickets $125) contact mailto: halloffametickets@yahoo.com and let them know that you wish to be seated with Roger ( tables of 10).

If you have any questions please contact  MClegends@aol.com

Roger, a VMC club member since the 70s has sat on many committees and also served on the executive.

He has won the VMC Memorial Trophy, the Activity Award, and is a five-time winner of the Matson Award, which is given for contributing the most motorcycling – which he considers his most treasured award.

Over the years Roger has enjoyed photography, particularly taking pictures at club events. This has led to the largest collection of VMC photos of anyone in the club. He has borrowed older members’ photo albums and has scanned all the photos for the club to enjoy. Roger also has all films and videos that are being converted to DVD.

In 2002 he took over the publishing of the club’s newsletter which always included some historical content, and continues it to this day.

He is also the go to person in the club for information.

Roger worked hard supplying all the information to have the Shanks family inducted into the Canadian motorcycle Hall of Fame and both the VMC and Vern Amor through his work had been inducted into the Canadian Hall of Fame and the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame.

He and Gary Nostrand produced a coffee table book of vintage motorcycles of Victoria, and also the Victoria motorcycle club history book.

Roger has 63 consecutive years of VMC membership and has lots of memories to look back on.

If you want to know anything about motorcycling in British Columbia, ask Roger.

The Victoria motorcycle club wishes to thank Roger for all his effort over the years, and even more importantly is camaraderie and friendship.

Three cheers!

We would like to show our appreciation to Barnes PowerSports and Barnes Harley-Davidson Victoria

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Barnes Powersports and Barnes Harley-Davidson Victoria have been a proud supporter of the Victoria motorcycle club for well over a decade.

They have generously let us use their building space every month for our club meetings, and supported the VMC in many other ways.

It’s important that we give back to our sponsors, and they are offering our club members a little incentive if you feel so inclined.

They are currently offering us a 20% off discount on parts and accessories at both their Langford and Esquimalt locations.

And if you’re interested in buying a Harley, they are clearing out their in-store inventory at their invoice cost.

If you’re interested in buying a Hog, This might be the time to do it.

They are also having a Black Friday leather Jacket Exchange – if you bring your tired, beat up, ripped, old leather jacket in and purchase a new one, that old rag will save you $125.

Check them out.

VMC wishes to express its Gratitude to the following Sponsors

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Highlights and Gratitude

In 2024 The VMC undertook capital improvements on the Cycle Park property including a new pavilion, power shed, a toggled power gate, improved water distribution and for the first time electrical services.

These capital improvements, changes to the parking areas, landscaping and improved trial sections could not have been accomplished without the many sponsors that stepped up and supported the club.

This support shone brightly when the VMC posted the CMA national trials event on the weekend of the 8/9 and 10th of November.

The VMC made sure the event was spectator-friendly, incorporating some well-designed man-made sections that added an extra level of excitement. 

A special thanks goes to the event’s many sponsors, whose support made the event possible:

 

True Line Contracting

H. Volk Transport, 

Cutter Industries

Stan Fry Cement Finishing, 

Moser Earth Works, 

Farhill Engineering, 

AAA Rebar, 

Willowleaf Holdings, 

Perrier Roofing, 

Landmark Sign, 

Langley Precast, 

Nichol Electric, 

Pacific Truss, 

Trio Redi Mix, 

Thetis Cove Joinery, 

Moto Trials West

Capital City Paving, 

United Rentals, 

Northridge Excavating, 

Fisher Backhoe Services, 

Global Pro Systems,

Old Dart Management.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to these sponsors.

Results of the 2024 VMC Canadian National Trials Championship Event November 9th and 10th, 2024

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Click to see Graham Turners video of the event.

Photo’s in this article are captures from the video.

Technical content was taken from the Christy Williams Richards post at the CMA Website.

The 2024 Canadian National Trials Championship kicked off and wrapped up in a spectacular fashion this past weekend at the Victoria Motorcycle Club (VMC) property. Despite the heavy rain on Saturday, nearly 50 riders gathered to take on a challenging and meticulously crafted course, designed by multi-time Canadian Trials Champion Ryon Bell, Matt Fracy, and Brandon Volk. Their efforts, alongside a dedicated team of volunteers, ensured that the event ran seamlessly. From the course layout to the volunteer support, timing, and overall atmosphere, it was clear this was a top-tier competition. The sections were tough but fair, and the event as a whole was a resounding success.

Championship Class: Murphy Aaron Dominates

In the top-tier Championship class (Trial 1), Murphy Aaron (Gas Gas; Temecula, California) stood head and shoulders above the competition, halving the scores of his closest rivals over both days. After his impressive 2-1 finish in the AMA National Series, Aaron came into the weekend on fire, navigating the notoriously slippery VMC terrain with ease. “This was the toughest event I’ve ridden all year,” Aaron remarked after the event. “Some of those sections were as hard as anything in the US National Pro lines, and even the Pro riders would have been taking points.” He went on to say that the VMC was not only the slipperiest place he’s ever ridden but likely the most slippery place in the world.

Rounding out the top 3 in the Championship class were Brandon Volk (Vertigo; Victoria, BC) and Sean Bird (Scorpa; Port Coquitlam, BC). Brandon enjoyed a more comfortable lead on Saturday (105.5-124), but Sunday’s battle saw a much closer contest, with Sean finishing just 3 points behind. Sean, who’s recovering from a hand injury suffered at the Trial des Nations earlier this year, showed he’s still more than a match for his younger competitors. This duo promises to provide some exciting rivalry moving forward, possibly even some camaraderie as they both eye the Trials des Nations in 2025.

Women’s Sportsman Class: Melissa Andrist Reigns Supreme

The Women 1 – Sportsman class was dominated by Victoria’s own Melissa Andrist (Gas Gas), who was the sole competitor but still managed to beat several male riders. Her back-to-back victories earned her another title in the long list of CMA Women’s Championship wins.

Trial 2 – Expert Class: Alex Le Tops the CMA Podium

The Trial 2 – Expert class proved to be the most competitive class of the weekend, with riders putting up impressive scores. On Saturday, Alex Le (Vertigo; Squamish, BC) finished first with 100 points, followed by Andrew Watson (Montesa; Victoria, BC) and Rhys Hathoway (Vertigo; Victoria, BC). On Sunday, two non-CMA riders, Nik Ferguson (Gas Gas; Victoria, BC) and Trevor Wince (Gas Gas; Duncan, BC), took the top spots in this class, with Alex Le securing third.

Trial 3 – Sportsman: Aaron Wilkins Claims Championship

Ontario’s Aaron Wilkins (Beta) had a standout performance in the Trial 3 – Sportsman class, earning the CMA Championship after securing two wins. On Saturday, Wilkins was closely contested by John Faa (Vertigo; Victoria, BC), but on Sunday he pulled away with a 19-to-53-point victory. Faa finished second both days to earn the CMA silver medal, with Brian McNeal (Gas Gas; Coquitlam, BC) securing third.

Vet 3 – Senior Sportsman: Dave Nunn’s Consistency Pays Off

The Vet 3 – Senior Sportsman class saw Dave Nunn (Gas Gas; Victoria, BC) winning both days with consistent scoring, 70 points on Saturday and 59 on Sunday. Nanaimo’s Simon Kitchen (Beta) pushed Nunn hard, despite battling a back injury on Sunday, finishing in second. Ernie Ferguson (Vertigo; Victoria, BC) claimed third place but could only compete on Saturday due to injury.

Trial 4 – Intermediate Class: Steinbacher Takes Sunday Victory

The Trial 4 – Intermediate class saw a bit of a shake-up between Saturday and Sunday. Ethan Maier (Beta; Portland, Oregon) took the win on Saturday, with Shawn Steinbacher (Vertigo; Pennsylvania) in second. On Sunday, Steinbacher flipped the script, claiming victory while Maier took second, and local rider Mike Bullen (Gas Gas) rounded out the podium.

Vet 4 – Senior Intermediate: Eastman and Patterson Battle It Out

The Vet 4 – Senior Intermediate class was the largest of the weekend, with 11 riders on Saturday and 10 on Sunday. Stu Eastman (Vertigo; Victoria, BC) claimed the top spot on Saturday, but Nova Scotia’s Kevin Patterson (Vertigo) took the win on Sunday, finishing just two points ahead of Eastman. In the overall standings, Eastman secured the CMA Vet 4 championship, with Patterson taking silver. The oldest rider in the event, Bill de Garis (Vertigo; Port Moody, BC), at 84 years old, finished in third both days, securing the CMA bronze medal. Bill, who wasn’t thrilled about competing in a “young man’s class” of riders under 50, is a true testament to the enduring spirit of trials.

Women 2 – Intermediate: Delacroix Claims Victory

The Women 2 – Intermediate class featured a strong turnout with five competitors. Day one saw Alicia Lim (Vertigo; Victoria, BC) take the lead, followed by Katie McGeachy (Beta; Vernon, BC) and Jaclyn Delacroix (Vertigo; Squamish, BC). However, Day two saw a shift in the standings, with Delacroix taking the top spot, McGeachy remaining steady in second, and Emily Roberts (Beta; Golden, BC) claiming third. In the overall series standings, Delacroix took first, McGeachy second, and Lim finished third.

Event Highlights and Gratitude

This year’s event received rave reviews, with a few surprises including the first-ever use of a first-loop time limit and separate courses for each day’s competition. The VMC made sure the event was spectator-friendly, incorporating some well-designed man-made sections that added an extra level of excitement. 

The event would not have been possible without the support of the VMC’s dedicated volunteer crew, with more than 25 scorers and the tireless Clerks of the Course—Ryon Bell, Matt Fracy, and Brandon Volk—who worked countless hours behind the scenes.

A special thanks goes to the event’s many sponsors, whose support made the event possible:

 Victoria Motorcycle Club, 

True Line Contracting,

H. Volk Transport,

Cutter Industries, 

Stan Fry Cement Finishing, 

Moser Earth Works, 

Farhill Engineering, 

AAA Rebar, 

Willowleaf Holdings, 

Perrier Roofing, 

Landmark Sign, 

Langley Precast, 

Nichol Electric, 

Pacific Truss, 

Trio Redi Mix, 

Thetis Cove Joinery, 

Mototrials West, 

Capital City Paving, 

United Rentals, 

Northridge Excavating, 

Fisher Backhoe Services, 

Global Pro Systems,

Old Dart Management.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to these sponsors, and the volunteers, and riders who helped make this event an unforgettable experience.

Results:

National Trial Nov 2024 Sat Results National Trial Nov 2024 Sunday Results