About BMX Racing
BMX Racing started in the late 1960s, as “kids from the neighborhood” in Southern California mimicked the motorcycle stars of the day riding on dirt lots that were at the end of many streets back then.
They taped paper pie plates to their handlebars with the number of their favorite motocross hero, and raced around, twisting their right hand grip and making motorcycle sounds.
It didn’t take long before those neighborhood kids met up with kids from other neighborhoods, ultimately leading to the first organized BMX race in July of 1969 at Palms Park in Santa Monica, CA.
From its early roots, BMX Racing was a family sport. Moms, dads, siblings, aunts, uncles and grandparents all came out to the track to cheer-on their racer. Some volunteered to be a starter, scorer, announcer or corner marshal. Sisters and brothers started racing or became the official family photographer. Other adults coached the kids in their little group.
Fast-forward 47 years, and BMX Racing is still every-bit a family sport as in those early days.
Modern-day BMX Racing welcomes riders from four years old to well-over 60 yrs of age. Fun fact: The eldest BMX racer is Phares Parsons from Georgia, at 82. Three generations of the Parsons family frequently race together at events throughout the South.
“Riding bikes” has created some of the best childhood memories for generations. And though kids don’t ride around the neighborhood like they used to, the local BMX track is the perfect place to continue that two-wheeled tradition of fun, family and fitness.
Photo: Stephen Greco - Valley Focus Media
About the League
BMX Racing is an individual sport. Everyone rides, every time, regardless of how proficient or inexperienced. That is one of the key benefits most new families list when asked why they like the sport. “Nobody Rides the Bench in BMX Racing.”
The League allows new families to learn how the sport works, and riders to progress gradually, riding only with other beginners. At this level, the focus is on fun, developing bike handling skills, spending quality family time, and meeting new friends.
In addition to all instruction & racing, each BMX Racing League season includes a League jersey, number plate, end-of-season award & pizza party, as well as access to loaner bikes & helmets.
Participants are encouraged to complete two League seasons before graduating up to the track's “Open Racing” program, as Novices.
