Community Champion: Honoring Dave Ternier’s Dedication to Building Community and Trails

Community Champion: Honoring Dave’s Dedication to Trail Building and Community Building

This month, we are proud to highlight Dave Ternier, a remarkable volunteer whose passion for cycling and trail building has left a lasting impact on our community.

This season, Dave has been a key figure at Bison Butte, where his efforts have greatly impacted the trail network and cycling community. Since joining the Bison Butte Committee in 2023, he has been instrumental in organizing events like the Bison Butte Dig Nights, which bring together volunteers to maintain and improve the trails. Through his dedication, Dave has successfully united cyclists of all ages and skill levels, attracted sponsors, and fostered a strong sense of community. His commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment has not only enhanced the quality of the trails but also strengthened the bonds within the cycling community, making Bison Butte a thriving hub for riders.

Dave’s journey into cycling began later in life, but his enthusiasm quickly grew into a deep commitment to improving the cycling experience for everyone. After overcoming years of chronic back pain, Dave found a renewed sense of purpose through cycling. Over the past seven years, he has not only embraced cycling for his own physical and mental health but has also become a driving force in the development of trails and community events.

In addition to his work with Bison Butte, Dave has been a driving force behind several other key initiatives. As the Board Chairperson for Valley Life Recreation in Minnedosa and a Board Member for Trails Manitoba, he has leveraged his experience to support trail development across the regions. His work organizing Trail Talks, Manitoba’s first official trails conference, is a testament to his commitment to advancing the conversation around trail use and development in the province.

Dave is incredibly proud of his involvement in the planning, fundraising, and construction of the Squirrel Hills Trail Park in Minnedosa. As a member of the board, Dave contributed his skills from his previous experience working in weddings and special events—such as storytelling and a keen attention to detail—to help the team successfully raise $700,000 and complete the park’s construction in just over three years. He emphasizes that this achievement was a collective effort, made possible by the remarkable collaboration of the Valley Life Recreation team and numerous dedicated volunteers. For Dave, being part of this journey and contributing to the creation of a new destination for riders in Western Manitoba and the Parkland region has been a deeply rewarding experience.

Reflecting on his volunteer work, Dave fondly remembers his involvement in the Ride Like Ole events, which honor the legacy of Ole Heie, an inspiring trail athlete. One of Dave’s most cherished experiences was participating in the first Ride Like Ole ride in 2021, a deeply meaningful event held just a month after Ole’s passing. Alongside six other riders, including Ole’s parents, Dave rode 172 km in a single day through Riding Mountain National Park to share Ole’s story and highlight the trail park that Ole had eagerly anticipated. This ride had a profound impact on everyone involved, both physically and emotionally, and Dave is grateful to have been part of such a special tribute. He hopes Ole’s story continues to inspire others and encourages people to learn more about what made Ole such a remarkable individual.

Dave believes everyone has the capacity to make a difference in the cycling community, regardless of their personal circumstances. “Everyone can do something,” he asserts, highlighting the importance of contributing in any way possible. Reflecting on his own life, Dave acknowledges his immense privilege—having enjoyed a fulfilling career, unwavering support from his incredible family, and a remarkable partner named Kathryn. He appreciates the mentorship he’s received, which has helped him learn to communicate and connect with others, and recognizes the many volunteers and coaches who have guided him along the way. “The ONLY way the world turns is by stepping up, working together, and contributing to your community,” he emphasizes, feeling a strong obligation to give back and acknowledge the advantages he’s had.

Dave is passionate about the cycling and trails community, emphasizing that it is only as strong as the efforts put into it. With unprecedented investments currently being made in trail development, particularly in Manitoba, he urges others to get involved. “Everyone—and I mean EVERYONE—has 60 minutes this month to give,” he says. Even a small commitment, like participating in a volunteer trail night, can have a significant impact. He hopes that in 20 years, the community will look back with pride on the actions taken today to enhance outdoor recreation. Dave remains committed to this cause and invites others to join him in making the world a better place through cycling and trails. “It takes a village,” he adds, “and I’ll be here to help in any way I can.”

We are incredibly grateful to Dave for his unwavering dedication, hard work, and leadership. Thank you, Dave, for your outstanding contributions to trail building and for helping to build a stronger, more connected cycling community!