MAKE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH A PRIORITY.
In loving memory of Jeffrey Ward
May 9, 1989 - July 2, 2018
Our story begins with Jeff Ward, a passionate motocross and hockey fan, loving son, devoted brother, proud dad, and loyal friend who tragically died by suicide in 2018. Jeff lived and breathed the thrill of the track, especially at Walton Raceway, his favourite place to ride. His loss left a profound void in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.
Inspired by Jeff’s legacy and in loving memory of his life, the Ward family founded Racing for Mental Wellness, a compassionate movement dedicated to shining a light on mental health, advocating for suicide prevention, and building a strong support network so that no one in their local or motocross community has to face these struggles alone.
Racing For Mental Wellness
"As Jeff’s family, and with deep roots in the motocross community, we knew we had to do more than mourn his loss. We had to take action. That’s how Racing for Mental Wellness was created, as a way to honour Jeff’s memory, raise awareness about the struggles that are too often left unspoken, and ensure that no one in this community ever feels like they’re racing alone. This isn’t just a cause to us. It’s personal, and it’s a lifelong mission we’re dedicated to carrying forward."
- Tanner Ward, Professional Motocross Racer
As motorsports run deep in the Ward family, Jeff’s passion for motocross lives on through two of his brothers, Tanner and Tyler.
Tanner Ward is a professional Canadian motocross racer, carrying Jeff’s legacy onto the national stage with every race.
Tyler Ward shares that same drive and dedication, competing passionately in sprint car racing.
Together, their love for motorsports continues to fuel the mission behind Racing for Mental Wellness—reminding others that no one has to ride or race through life alone.
Tanner Ward
Canadian professional motocross racer competing in the premier 450 class of the Canadian Triple Crown Series as a rider for the Priority MX Thor GasGas Race Team. Tanner combines skill and passion to compete at the highest level of Canadian motocross.
Tyler Ward
Races in the competitive 360 Sprint Car class, making his mark at Ohsweken Speedway—his home track known for high-energy dirt track racing. Backed by his key sponsors like Left Lane Alignments, Great Lakes Appraisals, KR Communications, King Performance Diesel, Wilder's Custom Painting, and Race Winning Brands Canada.
At the core of Racing for Mental Wellness is a mission to break the silence, end the stigma, and ensure no one in our community feels alone in their struggles. What began as a tribute to Jeff has grown into a movement rooted in connection, compassion, and purpose.
This is more than a cause—it’s a lasting commitment to champion mental health, create space for meaningful conversations, and build a stronger, more supportive community.
