BMX club hosts its first race of 2024
Club treasure Linky Wheeler said their main aim and wish is to get more riders across SA so the sport can grow into a recognisable one in the country.
The Kempton Park BMX Club hosted its first club race of the year on January 28.
“Each club in Gauteng has three club races a year. These are fun races and a great way to get into the sport,” said Melanie Sears, the chairperson of Kempton Park BMX Club.
“Each club will host an event and encourage new riders to give it a bash. We have novice and expert categories and award them separately. We also have a new balance bike series for toddlers and aspiring young riders.”
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Sears said the Kempton Park club has a U5 age category. This year, the youngest participant was aged just four.
The club was established in the mid-1980s.
Sears explained that their plans for 2024 are to grow the sport and get new riders interested.
“We are finalising our programme for development riders to give opportunities to young people who have the dedication to train and apply themselves but not the means to do so.
“We encourage the private sector in the vicinity to get in touch with us if this is something they want to get involved with,” said Sears.
“Our club is open to members and non-members alike. You do not have to be affiliated with our club to race.”
She said they have five new official affiliates to date.
“Once you compete nationally, you must be affiliated with a BMX club.”
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Sears said the sport caters for varied goals and commitment levels.
“You can be a casual rider or go all out. Training is recommended twice a week as a minimum.”
Official training sessions at the Kempton Park BMX Club take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 16:00 to 19:00 and Saturdays from 09:00 to 12:00.
“We had 83 riders in our club race, which includes the balance bike series.
“This is phenomenal for a club race and we are grateful for the support from the community and the greater BMX fraternity for the successful day,” said Sears.
“I love watching the young people develop in skill and confidence. Their personal growth, sportsmanship and comradery are what we celebrate here at Kempton BMX.
“I always say, start and finish every race, have a good attitude and say ‘well done’ to your fellow riders,” she added.
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Sears said she was exposed to the sport as a mom in 2021 when her son, Matthews Sears, wanted to get involved.
“We have been hooked ever since, and now my eldest, Nicholas Sears, rides as well. I have acquired a cruiser and plan to race during the year and start a mommy’s class.
“We have many children come to the club who battle with anxiety and ADHD, and I have seen a marked improvement in self-management from children who start BMX. They realise they are wonderfully made and realise their true potential,” said Sears.
Some winners from the club race included Alexander Kingsley, Ariella Jansen van Vuuren, Liam Potgieter, Daniel Voges, Massimo Perregil, Hlompo Letwaba and Nathan Brits.
Club treasurer Linky Wheeler said their main aim is to grow the sport in SA.“February 4 marked the start of the Gauteng Regional Racing.
“The series consists of 16 races that will be held over eight events throughout the year at Kempton BMX Club, Cradle BMX Club and Alrode BMX Club. Points accumulated in this series will determine the category winners.”
For more information, email kemptonbmx@gmail.com
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