BMX is short for Bicycle Moto cross and is a sport for the whole family to enjoy.

It's fun, it's exciting and it's challenging!!  Racing is done on a dirt track with lots of jumps, obstacles and corners to challenge a rider's skills, from start to finish.

The sport of Bicycle Motocross began in the early 1970's in southern California.  A handful of riders started riding their stingray type bikes off road in vacant lots and fields.  Not much competition, but lots of fun.

Today, the sport of BMX is sweeping the country and the world.  There are over 150,000 riders of all ages racing organized races at permanent tracks across Canada and the United States.  BMX racing is clean, exciting fun that whole families can get involved in, whether it be as a racer, spectator, pit crew or track volunteer.  BMX has something to offer everyone.

Races are organized according to age groups and skill levels so everyone gets the opportunity to compete on a fair and competative basis.  All riders compete for trophies/stickies and points thar are published in the BMXer magazine which each rider receives every month.

Races are organized into girl's classes and boy's classes, then subdivided into age groups and skill levels.  Age classes can range from 5yrs & under to adults.

Depending on the number of entrants, you race against other riders the same age, give or take a year.  Races are also organized by skill.  If you are a new rider, you start as a novice and race against other novice riders.  After you win eight races, your skills have improved and you move up to the intermediate class.  After 25 more wins, you move up to the expert class.

BMX racing does not require a lot of expensive equipment.  Most racers start with their 16" or 20" street bike.  By removing the chain guard, kick stand and other hazardous attachments and adding some inexpensive padding to the frame, handle bar, and stem, the bike will be ready to race.

All bikes must have rear brakes only which must be in good working order.  All equipment must be safe and in good condition in order to compete.  Bike safety checks are done at the beginning of every race to encourage proper maintenance and upkeep, including safety equipment.

First a helmet is required.  Full face protection in madatory for anyone 16 years & under.  We follow the guidlines as laid out by the ABA in their rule book.  The helmet must have a permanent strap attached, snaps are not allowed.  The helmet must have sufficient padding and be of good quality, and fit properly (very important).

You will also need to wear a long sleeve shirt, long pants, and running shoes with good gripping soles. We also reccommend wearing gloves to protect your ten digits.

You can race your BMX bike right here in Kelowna at the Kelowna BMX track.

Simply visit the track during paractice (Mondays 6:00pm - 7:30pm) or race times (Wednesdays), and ask for a membership application at the moto shed.  You can watch the races, talk to other BMX families or give it a try yourself.