Editor’s note: Make It Missoula is all about making and sustaining connections between Missoulians and Western Montanans. If your business or non-profit has a community event coming up or an informative, locally-focused press release to share, let us help you spread the word! Send your press release to info@makeitmissoula.com.
Rail Jam to Benefit a New BMX Park in Downtown Missoula
The youngest of 7 kids, Tanner had the energy and athleticism of all of his siblings combined. He taught everyone he met how to live life to the fullest and to never back down from a challenge…
Sadly, a horrible car accident took Tanner’s and his dear cousin Trevor’s lives. This tragic event cut short a life that was headed toward greatness on the ski hill as a freestyle skier who was stomping double back flips, shifty 360s, and Rodeo 5s!
When he wasn’t on skis he was riding all over Missoula on his treasured orange BMX bike, hitting all kinds of jumps and constantly inventing new tricks with all of his buddies. He inspired his friends and people who barely knew him to “max the fun meter” and “never waste time sitting around.”
It is that type of energy we hope to share with you as we embark upon our first project to memorialize Tanner Olson, with a BMX park built in his name in downtown Missoula, where kids of all ages can safely go and spend the day with friends having fun and making everlasting memories.
This Saturday, November 3, the second annual Ride for Tanner Rail Jam will bring snow, riders, big air, and big fun to Caras Park. Admission to the event is $5, with proceeds going to benefit the construction of the new BMX park in Missoula. There will be cash prizes, raffles, giveaways, music, and more from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m.
If you would like to join the I RIDE FOR TANNER mission, please email Tanner’s mama, Kathy, or like We Ride for Tanner on Facebook.
If you want to donate but can’t make it to Saturday’s Rail Jam, donations can be sent to:
Tanner Olson Memorial BMX Park
6226 Lower Miller Creek Road
Missoula, MT 59803
(406) 861-6179