Liam Beedle Named Inaugural Recipient of Kris Yip Memorial Foundation Junior Cyclist Grant
The Kris Yip Memorial Foundation is proud to announce Liam Beedle as one of the inaugural recipients of the 2026 Junior Cyclist Grant Program.
Liam's story is a powerful reminder that success in cycling is not always measured by podium finishes or race results. Sometimes, it is found in perseverance, community involvement, and a genuine love for the sport.
Over the past several years, cycling has grown from a way to spend time with friends into a true passion. Liam has embraced every aspect of the sport, from following professional racing and maintaining a training diary to committing himself to structured training and seeking out new challenges on two wheels.
His dedication is evident not only in the miles he rides but in the attitude he brings to every opportunity.
Perserverance Through Adversity
Like many athletes, Liam has faced setbacks along the way.
Over the past two seasons, he endured the frustration of breaking both of his arms, injuries that forced him away from racing and disrupted his plans. Yet even during recovery, he refused to lose sight of his goals.
Unable to ride outside, Liam continued training indoors on a trainer set up in a near-freezing garage. When injury prevented him from participating in the Tour de Smithers, he chose to stay involved by volunteering with course setup and timing instead.
That commitment to showing up, even when circumstances are difficult, is exactly the kind of resilience the Foundation hopes to celebrate through this grant program.
A Champion for Community
While Liam's determination impressed us, what stood out most was his deep appreciation for the cycling community.
Cycling, for Liam, is about more than competition. It is about friendship, mentorship, and creating connections with people who share a love for riding.
Through Smithers' youth cycling program, he helps younger riders feel welcome, supported, and confident as they develop their own skills and passion for the sport. He rides alongside cyclists of all ages, encourages newer riders, and contributes to the positive culture that makes cycling communities thrive.
Those actions reflect the values Kris embodied throughout his life: kindness, encouragement, and helping others succeed.
Looking Ahead
Liam has an exciting season ahead.
His goals for 2026 include competing at Gravel Nationals, returning to the Tour de Smithers after injury, and taking on the 95-kilometre Kris Yip Memorial Fondo. Above all, he hopes to continue enjoying the simple joy of riding bikes with friends.
His coach described him as a natural rider with an infectious smile, a strong work ethic, and a genuine love for cycling. Those qualities were evident throughout his application and made him a deserving recipient of this inaugural grant.
Carrying Kris's Legacy Forward
The Junior Cyclist Grant Program was created to support young athletes who demonstrate not only athletic potential, but also the character, perseverance, and community spirit that Kris Yip represented.
Liam exemplifies those values.
Congratulations, Liam. We are honoured to support your journey and look forward to cheering you on throughout the 2026 season and beyond.
The future of cycling in Northern British Columbia is bright.
The Kris Yip Memorial Foundation extends its sincere thanks to the Prince George Community Foundation and Engage Sport North for their support of the Junior Cyclist Grant Program and their commitment to helping young athletes pursue their dreams.