Legendary trail builder Todd “Digger” Fiander Kneeds Knees

Todd Fiander known affectionately my many in the mountain biking community as Digger has made immensely important contributions to the sport and trail building. His physical labour on B.C.’s North Shore trails helped spur on the evolution of freeride mountain biking. He also advocated for forest conservation and mountain biking as a positive force in communities. The physical wear of spending the past 30 years working on singletrack has taken it’s toll on the legendary trail builder and in mid-August he is having long overdue surgery on both his knees as first reported on Pinkbike.

While he’s continued to pursue his passion, the recovery will sideline him. In order to support the journey back to good health, a GoFundMe page has been set up.

While healthcare supports the medical cost, Digger’s living expenses and physio are not covered so a call for support has been extended to those who have been touched by the North Shore trails Digger has played such an important role in developing.

“Digger is, at heart, a pure North Shore mountain biker who found a passion for trail building early. It really is an art for him. His effect on the Shore is one of permanent longevity and commitment to his craft. Thousands of hours of volunteer time, toil, sweat and minimal recognition and finally, during the past few years, the trail builders have gotten that awareness for their contribution,” explained Andreas Hestler, from the BC Bike Race and Rocky Mountain Bicycles. “Digger, who has been there the whole time, seems happier these days now that his craft is appreciated. It won’t really change what he does though. When I see him on the trail, he usually nods and moves on; I assume to another section of trail.”

The Digge Kneeds Knees GoFundMe page has already raised $46,308 of the $100,000 goal as of Tuesday evening.