Coal Hills BMX is kicking off its 11th year this Saturday, at Village Park in Cumberland, with all welcome. Registration is from 10 to 10:45 a.m. and racing starts at 11 a.m.
New riders are always welcome and to celebrate the track is offering a free American BMX Association (ABA) trial membership for one day. This lets new riders try the track, receive guidance and instruction from knowledgeable and friendly track volunteers, then race and receive their trophy for competing in their first race.
Through volunteer hard work, the track has undergone a facelift and promises to be an exciting course for riders of all skill levels. Kids as young as four years old experience the thrill of hearing their names called over the loudspeaker as they bob up and down the half-track or quarter-track segments that are tailored for beginners.
Run bikes, training wheels even mountain bikes are all welcome. Riders need only a helmet and the desire to have fun to participate. Come and see why the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has endorsed BMX as one of its most exciting sports.
As if riding the bumps and making new friends in a fun atmosphere is not enough, this year's concession – grilling local non-hormone or medication beef hamburgers and turkey dogs, served on locally made fresh buns – will conquer everyone’s appetite. The concession has made a concerted effort to provide yummy and healthy snack options for hungry riders and their folks.
BMX racing is a non-qualifying thus inclusive sport. Riders of all skill levels are encouraged to race at the local, island, provincial and national level. An ABA membership ($55/full tracker, $25/half tracker, $20/quarter tracker for one year) entitles the rider to participate in ABA races held all over the world with Island tracks in Quallicm, Parksville, Nanaimo and Victoria. Also included is a one-year subscription to the official BMXer magazine.
Every month at Coal Hills, a trophy race is held where participants receive their own trophy and great sense of accomplishment. Along the way, parents watch with pride as their children grow confident and develop independent riding skills.
All riders are matched in their own age groups and skill levels to foster an atmosphere of encouragement balanced with personal achievement. Curious or interested? Check it out this Saturday. Too busy? Don’t fret, you can join any time this year to have fun as the season runs from April to October.
For more information contact Nikki at 250-339-0370, check out the website at www.coalhillsbmx.com or follow the fun on Facebook.
– BMX Coal Hills