BMX riders of all ages and levels of experiences competed in Regina over the weekend as the 13th Ave. BMX Club hosted races three and four of the Sask. Cup BMX Race Series.
The series is comprised of four races, plus the final Grands race. It features bikers from Regina, Saskatoon, and Warman competing from ages five to 50-plus. Racers earn points at each race leading up to the championship, to be held in Warman at the end of August.
“There’s eight people in each race. We all start in the same spot, and the race takes about 40 seconds,” explained Jonah Tillman, one of the riders in this year’s event.
Tillman said he’s been racing for about five years and started because of his older sister.
“As most younger siblings, I wanted to be like my older sibling,” he said.
“I like the community. I think a lot of people are going to say that because it’s true. The community is the number one thing. It’s a large family, and everybody is always looking out for each other. So, it’s a good place to be,” said Tillman.
Tillman said there’s a lot running through his mind in the moments before the gate drops and the race begins.
“A lot of trying to shut out all the noises around me. I’m thinking about the line I’ll take on the track and what happens if somebody cuts in front of me. How am I gonna try and take back the first-place spot?” he said.
Logan Stuart is another rider at this year’s event. He has been BMX racing for over seven years.
“We started racing motocross, and then transitioned to BMX.”
Stuart said when they started the track was in poor condition but the formation of the the club was a great thing.
“We’ve been here since day one and (it’s) just been getting better and they have been taking it more seriously since then,” said Stuart.
Stuart said he enjoys the high-pace action racing provides.
“The thrill, racing, the friends you make along the way — it’s a great sport. It’s challenging, but you can’t beat the fun in this sport,” he said.
Stuart said his game plan for each race is simple: “Stay focused and just keep looking ahead. Don’t focus on the people behind you.”
Stuart said the 13th Ave. BMX Club is in need of new members.
“If you have any interest in bikes, come out and support.”