Dave McAnerney's Legacy
Inspired by his nephew MJ, Dave McAnerney started Rider Cider for Autism in 2015. The event was founded in an effort to bring more programs and services for individuals on the autism spectrum to Kelowna.
The inaugural event soon grew into what was known as the HM Commercial Ride for Autism, an annual community-building ride that showcased local wineries and cideries, while supporting Canucks Autism Network (CAN).
CAN became Dave’s charity of choice due to the positive impact the organization had on MJ’s life. Dave wanted to ensure that any Kelowna family with a child on the spectrum could benefit from the same life-changing support.
Dave’s sudden passing just a few months following the 2022 HM Commercial Ride for Autism devastated everyone fortunate enough to have known him. With heavy hearts, the community came together to honour the memory of an incredible person gone too soon.
In 2023, the event was renamed the Dave McAnerney Ride for Autism in honour of Dave’s passion for cycling and unwavering commitment to the autism community.
Dave’s legacy lives on each year with this ride and the direct impact it has on children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum in Kelowna.
Since launching in Kelowna just eight years ago, hundreds of local families have benefited from CAN’s growing portfolio of sports and rec programs, summer day camps, youth and adult opportunities, and year-round family experiences. None of this growth would have been possible without Dave’s unparalleled effort and leadership to create positive change in his community.
Dave's dream was for every individual on the autism spectrum to be understood, accepted, and supported in all community spaces. Thank you for your support and for honouring Dave's legacy.