D.A.N.E Jam 2017
Some of the crowd, stoked to have a crew arrive despite the time change. Photo: Tyson Jones-Peni
Six years have passed since Dane Searls' passed away, it never gets any easier to think of the reason why this jam is held. But all you can do each year is have Dane in mind while you get the trails running as good as you can, and then enjoy laps with some friends on the day, in celebration of the life of a trail riding, BMX badass.
I have to make special mention to Dane's mum, Jenni. Each and every year since the jam's inception, Jenni has made the trip to Canberra in support of the jam and to be around those who were friends and fans of Dane. Thanks for making the trip Jenni.
Despite the fact the start time had to change from the late afternoon to 9am, there was still a solid presence and the focus was definitely on riding. Thanks to those who showed up and cut a lap or spectated in Dane's honour.
Scott Greentree was around and shot some badass photos that you can see below with a few of my own, thanks Scott.
RIP Dane Searls.
- Tyson
Kris McCreath grabs the seat in front of the crowd while Dylan Lewis and Harti share a hug and miss it. Photo: Tyson Jones-Peni
Harti didn't miss a chance to get whipped out though. Chris was up at the trails early with a small crew, doing final prep work to make sure it was ready to go. Then ripped hard. Photo: Scott Greentree
Speaking of putting in time at the trails, Rhysty might have been up there at 6am this day. It's not the first time he is up there at dawn anyway. Puts in work and then lets a oppo table fly as a reward. Photo: Tyson Jones-Peni
Tyson Jones-Peni with the table on Halloween after running some tires through the step-down line. Photo: Scott Greentree
Kris McCreath (AKA Parrot) is one of few who put in many hours on the shovel at the trails and it shows; he lays down the law once it's time to ride! Seat grab one foot table. Photo: Tyson Jones-Peni
Chris 'Ando' Anderson is one of Dane's oldest friends, which makes it very awesome to be able to hold an event that Ando is able to attend. And shred. Him and Shane Biffen (in the bowl) tore it up. Thanks for coming! Photo: Scott Greentree
We don't get to see Tyrone Edwards at the trails too much, but seeing him blast like this, makes me want to see him at the trails more often! Every set juiced till it was dry. Photo: Tyson Jones-Peni
This year we were able to commemorate Dane's life and legacy with this amazing photo by Raine Turnbull, which we have turned into a limited edition, large format poster print. If you would like a copy, they are available here (or click the photo), with all proceeds going to the costs of running the jam.