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by bmxultra.com
The range of BMX T-shirts that are available today is simply amazing. I saw an S&M zombie rider T-shirt on the S&M website and being a big fan of BMX and zombie films I thought I have to grab one of those. It wasn't until that point that I had realised just how many BMX T-shirts there are to choose from. So instead of just grabing the Zombie Rider T-shirt I ended up with six new BMX T-shirts.
Not only are the T-shirts very cool in their own right, they let other BMXers know you are in the club and let the world know "I am a BMXer, loud and proud". They also make a perfect gift for the BMXer(s) in your household.
Check these out.
S&M Zombie Rider (front and close up)
Intense BMX (front and back)
Intense Tires (front and back)
THE (front and back)
Sinz and Fit
Elite Cycle Imports (Australia) have all of them in stock, ask your local bike shop for more information.
by bmxultra.com
We have already heard encouraging storys about how the Olympics has influenced people into contacting clubs and getting along to race meetings and training sessions. This is awesome for the BMX racing community, you can't ask for better publicity. But the Olympics happens once every four years so we need to ride the wave, now!
A lot of people who are running events and volunteering have been involved in BMX for quite some time. They set up systems that work for them and riders learn to accept it. I think it's time to reassess everything from the way we promote the sport, to entry forms, to the way we run events right the way through to getting the results out. We need to be more accomodating or we will never grow as a sport.
We need to welcome new people with arms wide open, but we need to make sure they can get involved easily and that we don't drive them away because they aren't licenced, don't have the right bike, will have to compete against the local club champion, or a world champion. There is generally a solution, or atleast a work around, for everything.
There is nothing more important than keeping fresh faces coming into our great sport, so if you have a new rider come into your club to check things out, even if it's just to watch you should find someone who can spend some time with them to explain how things work and basically let them know how much fun it is. Give them a bike to ride around on, don't scare them off saying you need a $2000 bike, because we all know you don't need anything of the sort, people just choose to pay that sort of money.
There are a whole lot of things that we could pin point and offer solutions to, but it comes down to the club to identify ways to exploit the publicity gained through the Olympics and convert interest into licenced riders. Going to the local newspaper to promote club days and open meetings is a good start. Growth will start at the grass roots level and some of those new riders will progress naturally through to national events.
The time is now, don't wait and miss this great opportunity.
Eastfield BMX Club press release
Local Eastfield Rider and defending Eastfield Experience Champion Michael Chasteauneuf is the first big name to commit to the 2008 Eastfield Experience. “Last year my winning run really started at the Eastfield Experience, I won that and went on to win the AA Pro division at the 2008 State Titles. I am pumped to defend my title. I know the club is working on getting some interstate riders there this year and I have heard Tony Harvey will be riding the event. So this year it will be a lot tougher to win.”
This years NAB/Moro Olive Oil Eastfield Experience will be held on the 28th of September. There is $3000 in the AA Pro pool and is the richest one day race in Victoria. For any further information log onto www.eastfieldbmx.org.au. Phone Wayne Berryman on 0429 605 356 or email theberrymans@optusnet.com.au
NBL press release
Attention all Pro Men: Rennen Design Group is sponsoring the Pro Men’s Holeshot award on Saturday at the NBL Grands. $250 goes to the winner of the Rennen Holeshot and if the winner is using a Rennen Sprocket, they earn a bonus $250 cash.
The NBL Pro Spectacular will run Saturday afternoon and will crown as many as four new champions this year. Visit http://www.rennendesigngroup.com/ for more info on their products. For more information about the NBL Grand National, visit www.nbl.org
NBL press release
NBL Skills Clinic - Get some extra track time with professional instruction before the Grands.
Date: Wednesday, August 27 – Derby City BMX Track
Registration: 4:30pm – 5:30pm at the track (Warm up starts at 5:00pm)
Clinic: 5:30 – 8:00pm
Fee: $30
Instructors:
From Standard Byke Co: Randall Neave, Chase Crawford, Dougie Fresh, Nick Benetti, and Peter Jensen
From BAWLS / Intense: Danny Caluag / Stephanie Barragan
BAWLS Guarana press releaseBAWLS Guarana
Miami, FL – In continuation of the brand’s commitment to BMX racing, BAWLS Guarana announced the launch of a limited-edition line of BMX racing-branded cans, now available nationwide. Proceeds from the sales of these BMX cans will go to support the growth of BMX racing in the US.
Fresh off the sport’s debut at the 2008 Summer Olympics, BMX racing is a still-growing force in the extreme sports community. Proceeds from all BAWLS BMX can sales will be donated to the American Bicycle Association (ABA) and the National Bicycle League (NBL) – the nation’s two BMX racing sanctions – to benefit new track building, rider development and local racing programs.
BAWLS Guarana is a long-time backer of BMX– the brand serves as the “Official Energy Drink” of both the ABA and NBL and is an active sponsor of several pro riders. “BAWLS Guarana’s involvement in BMX racing over the last two years has left me and our employees hooked!” commented Founder and CEO Hoby Buppert. “These cans allow us to thank the BMX racing community for their ongoing support.”
"We're very excited about the release of these new cans,” said ABA Marketing Director Shannon Gillette. “This shows the continued commitment that BAWLS Guarana has towards BMX racing and the ABA BMX programs. It's great working with companies like this!"
“The new BAWLS BMX-branded cans promise to help raise awareness for BMX and in turn, directly benefit the development of the sport at grass root levels,” said Kevin O’Brien, NBL’s director of marketing. “BAWLS Guarana continues to support NBL and BMX Racing and we are proud to promote the launch of their newest initiative at the NBL Grand National.”
The cans will be unveiled this weekend at the 2008 NBL Grand Championships in Louisville, KY. Can artwork also features the logos of the ABA and NBL. The debut of BAWLS Guarana’s BMX cans also marks the start of the brand’s annual BMX contest, promoted on the limited-edition packaging. BAWLS fans can enter to win one of 25 limited-edition BAWLS BMX racing bikes, made exclusively by Intense BMX. No purchase is necessary to enter at www.bawls.com.
About BAWLS
BAWLS is the brainchild of entrepreneur Hoby Buppert, CEO of Hobarama, LLC, who named the beverage for the caffeinated “bounce” the drink packs. Widely distributed to local supermarkets, convenience stores (7-Eleven, Speedway/SuperAmerica), Target, Microcenter stores and gaming venues; BAWLS is a premium, non-alcoholic, carbonated beverage made from the guarana berry harvested in the Amazonian Rainforest. The caffeine found in BAWLS Guarana contains the same amount of caffeine as coffee and nearly three times that of traditional sodas due to a naturally occurring form of the stimulant found in the guarana berry. BAWLS’ unique refreshing flavor tastes like a citrus infused cream soda and its popularity continues to grow among caffeine-deprived, refreshment-seeking techies, students, professionals and athletes in need of a Bounce. For more information, visit www.BAWLS.com.
by Peter Dylewski
Several months ago, Joey Bradford set up the Joey Bradford Disability Fund. Joey watched many professional BMX racers who made their living from our beloved sport gets injured and have no way of paying their bills or making income while hurt. You can learn more about this beneficial organization here: http://www.joeybradforddisabilityfund.org/ From time-to-time there are professional BMX racers who are in need of help and this is one of those times. I work with the fund to help get the funds to the riders that deserve a hand, and no one is more qualified for this than our good buddy, Jason Carnes.
Pretty much anyone who has been around the BMX scene for a while knows Jason Carnes the Vet Pro/Masters Class racer. Jason has had a nightmare of a year.
Jason's first major injury of '08 happened on January 26 at Estrella BMX in Phoenix where he suffered two broken ribs, a crushed kidney and was hospitalized for nine days, five of which were spent in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The injury also required a stint to be inserted in his kidney requiring 6 weeks of no physical activity resulting in his return to racing being delayed for four months.
Shortly after his return, Jason was severely injured yet again in Atlanta on June 22 where he sustained a compound fracture, multiple broken and dislocated bones in the left wrist as well as a severely dislocated right shoulder with a torn labrum and rotator cuff. The wrist injury required a lot more time in the hospital and three surgeries. The shoulder will also require major surgery in the future. These severe traumas and the recuperative procedures will require months of rehabilitation keeping Jason off the track and inhibiting his ability to earn much needed paydays and contingencies for at least six months.
Jason has given much of his life to BMX and now is the chance for us in the BMX community to give a little bit backto him in his time of need. This is exactly why the Joey Bradford Disability Fund was created - to help out dedicated BMX Professionals in their time of need. Donations can be made directly to the Joey Bradford Disability Fund on line at the web site. http://www.joeybradforddisabilityfund.org/ .
Those who can't donate to the fund can help in other ways. With the NBL Grands right around the corner, we'd also like to encourage every Pro out there who has ever enjoyed the hospitality and shade of the Redline pit to show some love by donating a signed jersey to the cause. Jerseys will be auctioned off at the NBL Grands providing not only a chance to help out Jason, but for riders to get one of their favorite Pro's jerseys. PLEASE come by the GT pit and see Jerry Bradford, who will be spearheading this effort. If you can make a product donation, Please let me know as well.
Any and all help is much appreciated by Jason and those of us who love him.
ABA press release
Reno, Nevada. – GO211.com, in conjunction with the American Bicycle Association, is proud to bring you the LIVE "FREE" webcast of the ABA’s Blackjack Nationals, a ABA BMX PRO Series event hosted at the Reno Livestock Event Center. Tune in for all the race action starting Saturday, August 30th, through Sunday, August 31st. This weekend will be another great one for sure! It all starts on the August 30th, at 10:00am Pacific time with a pre-show for the Blackjack Nationals. GO211.com will then go right into the "LIVE" action packed event coverage starting at 11:00am Pacific time for the duration of the days event. GO211.com will kick things off again at 7:30 Pacific time with another pre-show webcast, followed by the "LIVE" action feed at 8:00am sharp on August, 31st. The Blackjack National in Reno, Nevada is always noted as one of the best BMX events of the year, and this year will not be a disappointment. The facility, the track, the dirt, the racers, and the fans all seem to come together to make this a can't miss event!
Click here for all this weekends action! - http://www.go211.com/u/blackjacknationals08
Also be on the look out for some GO-PRO helmet cam footage of the ABA BMX Blackjack Nationals race track!
Remember, if you can't make it out to this awesome event or you can't get to a computor this weekend and miss all of the race action. GO211.com will have all the Main Events (plus Pro Quarters, Semis, and Motos), interviews, and shows posted on GO211.com the week following the event. Be sure to check out www.GO211.com and www.ababmx.com for more details.
About GO211.com:
Go211.com is the leading community and video site for lifestyle sports created by and for action sports athletes and enthusiasts. It's the place to hang with the Pros and friends to get behind-the-scenes video, blogs, photos, webcasts and podcasts from featured contributors along with other action sports fans. Go211.com offers a broad range of exclusive content submitted directly from the athletes. The Go211 Pro Team roster includes Danny Kass, Jeremy Jones, CJ Hobgood, Christian Hosoi, Hannah Teter, Ross Powers, Donny Robinson, Alise Post, Kyle Bennett, Randy Stumpfhauser, Mike Losness, Seth Wescott and Kelly Clark, among others.
by bmxultra.com
Here's the second of our Intense Tire Systems tires review, the ITS Haalo tire. This is the perfect tire for this time of the year in Australia. Cold wintery and wet. If you are looking for something with a little more grip then check this out.
Crupi press release
Congratulations to both Liam Phillips of England and Scott Erwood of Canada for a job well done at the Olympics. Although they did not make it through to the finals, they made everyone here at Crupi and all Crupi families from around the World proud! Please help us in congratulating both of these talented riders!
by AOC/Gennie Sheer
Graves, the world number two, qualified easily for the final claiming 2nd, 5th and 3rd in his three semi-final runs and drawing gate three on the final starting ramp. He launched out of the gate overcoming a slow start to surge ahead of his rivals and lead into the first corner. But disaster struck on the second corner when American Donny Robinson clipped South African Sifiso Nhlapo who crashed taking down Frenchman Damien Godet and Graves in the process.
Latvian Maris Strombergs won gold with Americans Mike Day and Donny Robinson taking silver and bronze. A bruised and battered Graves limped over the line for sixth place.
"I've got a pretty bad cork over the top of my thigh which is giving me a bit of curry right now and I'm sure I'll be pretty sore tomorrow," said a disappointed Graves whose rear tyre punctured in the pile up. "I didn't get the best start but put myself in a good position in the first corner.
"I was just leaning into the second corner in behind Maris (Strombergs) and I got hit from behind and was on my head before I knew it," said Graves. "It's pretty frustrating when it's out of your control but that's racing.
"I gave it the best go I could and didn't leave anything behind so I'm happy with that but would have liked a medal."
Team mate Kamakazi missed the final after a mixed performance in the semi finals.
"I definitely wasn't on fire like I was the other day, but I got out there and gave it a go so no regrets," said Kamakazi. "This whole experience has been right up there in the clouds for me and this has been the biggest day of my life and if I can get another chance at this I'll be there (London 2012)."
In the women's competition Callisto lost her chance of a medal when she crashed on the first corner.
"I slid out on the first turn and I just sort of sat there and a few tears ran down my face... it was a race that could change your life," said the 20 year old who says she'll now aim for 2012 in London. "This Olympics has been a big learning experience and I still have a lot to learn but I'm really looking forward to it."
She wasn't the only one to hit the dirt with pre-race favourite and reigning World Champion Shanaze Reade of Great Britain losing it on the final turn into the home straight to finish last. Anne-Caroline Chausson of France was outstanding all day to claim the gold with her compatriot Laetitia le Corguille second and American Jill Kintner third.
Australia's other starter Tanya Bailey also missed the final. She was relegated to last place in her first run and crashed in her second of her semi finals.
by bmxultra.com
More about what went down later, but for now here's the finals results
Women
| Rank | Bike Number | Name | NOC | Date of Birth |
Time | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
2 |
CHAUSSON Anne-Caroline |  France |
Oct 08 1977 |
35.976 |
|
2 |
22 |
le CORGUILLE Laetitia | France |
Jul 29 1986 |
38.042 |
+2.066 |
3 |
33 |
KINTNER Jill |  United States |
Oct 24 1981 |
38.674 |
+2.698 |
4 |
96 |
WALKER Sarah |  New Zealand |
Jul 10 1988 |
38.805 |
+2.829 |
5 |
144 |
DIAZ Gabriela |  Argentina |
Jan 02 1981 |
39.747 |
+3.771 |
6 |
55 |
CALLISTO Nicole |  Australia |
Nov 12 1987 |
1:19.609 |
+43.633 |
7 |
56 |
COOLS Sammy |  Canada |
Mar 03 1986 |
DNF |
|
8 |
1 |
READE Shanaze |  Great Britain |
Sep 23 1988 |
REL |
Men
| Rank | Bike Number | Name | NOC | Date of Birth | Time | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
1 |
STROMBERGS Maris |  Latvia |
Mar 10 1987 |
36.190 |
|
2 |
365 |
DAY Mike | United States |
Oct 19 1984 |
36.606 |
+0.416 |
3 |
10 |
ROBINSON Donny | United States |
Jun 17 1983 |
36.972 |
+0.782 |
4 |
717 |
JIMENEZ Andres |  Colombia |
Aug 27 1986 |
39.137 |
+2.947 |
5 |
72 |
van den WILDENBERG Rob |  Netherlands |
Mar 02 1982 |
39.772 |
+3.582 |
6 |
53 |
GRAVES Jared | Australia |
Dec 16 1982 |
2:19.233 |
+1:43.043 |
7 |
105 |
NHLAPO Sifiso |  South Africa |
May 13 1987 |
DNF |
|
8 |
69 |
GODET Damien | France |
Nov 10 1986 |
DNF |
by bmxultra.com
The weather gods weren't too kind on Beijing yesterday, heavy rain caused the semi finals and finals for BMX to be postponed until today 9am Beijing time. Beijing's forecast for today looks perfect for a day of fast action packed racing, 30°C and sunny. Actually I wouldn't be surprised if we see the athletes in their ice suits to cool down between races again.
Here's a nice link of Mike Day's helmet cam on the Olympic Replica track in Cali., USA.
Revised channel 7 (Australia) viewing schedule
Friday 22 August
For qualifications, seed times, TV schedules, links and other information check out our Olympics page.
by Glenn Suridge
When: Saturday August 23rd
Where:
Knox BMX Club
Cost: $10 per rider
The clinic will start at 12 pm SHARP . Please be there by 11.45
We will be covering everything from gate technique cornering jumping and sprinting and more
Riders must bring all safety gear .Canteen will be available for drinks
Spots are filling fast so call me or email to book your spot AND NO CLIPS
0416 92 7474
glensuridge@optusnet.com.au
by bmxultra.com
It's the business end of the BMX racing program at Beijing on today, there will be 3 rounds of semi finals where only the top 4 from each semi will progress to the final for both the males and females and then the presentation of the first Olympic Medals for BMX racing.
So strap yourselves in folks, you are in for some action packed BMX racing like you have never seen before, the stakes have never been higher and there has never been this many spectators for a single BMX race.
If you missed any of yesterday's action check out this link to catch up:
http://au.sports.yahoo.com/olympics/video/-/sports/bmx/
The BMX racing starts today at 9am Beijing time. (Aus EST - 11:00, USA PDT - 18:00, USA EDT - 21:00)
For qualifications, seed times, TV schedules, links and other information check out our Olympics page.
by bmxultra.com
Well the first day of Olympic BMX racing was well covered by Australia's media with the men's quarter finals on prime time TV and BMX fans from all over the country were able to see the timed seeding runs via webstream.
The timed runs were almost incident free with the only serious crash by the favourite to take the Gold medal for the womens class, Great Britan's Shanaze Reade. Shanaze bounced back to take the second fastest time behind French rider, Anne-Caroline Chausson.
It was a mixed day of carnage, surprise and disapointment. It was Latvian Maris Strombergs who took the fastest lap in the first run, only to be relegated to the second fastest when American Mike Day put in a blinder of a second run. In the men's quarter finals some of the favourites, including Australia's Luke Madill, Robert DeWilde from the Netherlands, Czeck rider Michal Prokop, Frenchman Tomas Allier and Jonathan Suarez from Venezuela missed the cut for the semi final. It just goes to show the depth of the 32 strong field at Beijing. American Kyle Bennett fell heavily in his final round but still managed to scrape through to the next round with an apparent dislocated shoulder. Riders looking good going into the semi are Australia's Jared Graves, Mike Day, Maris Strombergs, Latvia's Arturs Matisons, South Africa's Sifiso Nhlapo and New Zealand's Marc Willers. With all three Americans in one semi together it will make for some exciting racing as riders push towards the finals. The fastest time in the quarters was posted by Raymon van der Biezen, keep an eye on him.
I'm certainly looking forward to seeing the women in action tomorrow, exciting times ahead.
Maybe with Madill out of the running the Australian commentary crew could employ Luke to help explain the sport and give some inside information the riders to the wider public.
by bmxultra.com
It's been five long years since the IOC announced that BMX racing would be a medal sport at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and the day is finally here. Today at 9:00am Beijing time 48 BMX racers from 17 countries will be immortalised in the Olympic history books on this very special day in the history of BMX racing.
People are still asking the questions though. Is BMX worthy of a spotlight on the Olympic stage? As a passionate BMXer you might what to answer that question. Take a stand for your sport. I'm sure everyone has a favourite rider or at least a country they would like to see take the medals. But none of that matters now. As they say we are in the hands of the Gods. BMX is now an Olympic sport and six athletes will walk away with the first ever BMX Olympic medals.
Personally I hope that the media and the general public embraces BMX for what it is, whether they will or not, time will tell. But by the looks of things BMX is about to get it's 15 minutes of fame.
As a BMXer be proud of your sport, wear your favourite BMX t-shirt, but most of all don't forget to watch the Olympic qualifying today and the semis and finals tomorrow.
For TV schedules, links and a whole more information check out our Olympics page.
by bmxultra.com
Jerry Landrum, of bmxmania.com, has been following the major international events for a long time now, and is very much a part of the furniture when it comes to BMX racing. When BMX makes it's Olympic debut today Jerry will be at gound-zero taking photos and getting right amongst the action as it unravels. We asked him a few questions about BMX, bmxmania.com and the Olympics.
bmxultra.com What made you start bmxmania.com?
Jerry:
I had been on the internet for a while, back in the 90’s and a little thought scampered thru my mind and said, “Hey, I ought to make a web site!” I’ve been doing it ever since.
bmxultra.com: When was it?
Jerry: I think my first efforts were in February of 1996.
bmxultra.com: What has kept you motivated to keep it going all this time?
Jerry: I love BMX, that’s the bottom line. I’ve always been involved in media stuff, so that end of it comes naturally, but I’d be off making money running a sign making biz or something like that if it weren’t for being able to express myself thru BMX.
bmxultra.com: What is it that keeps you involved in BMX?
Jerry: Like I said above, I LOVE the sport. Meeting cool people, like “Ultra Shane”, all of the great pro racers that I get to know, getting to see the world, but mostly just the feeling of watching crazy BMXers MOTOR down a straightaway, hit a big Ol Jump and fly thru the air, all at warp speed, that’s just such a rush, I never get over it. (One of my FAVORITES is to stand at the bottom of a UCI Supercross Starting Hill taking photos and have Luke [Madill], Kyle [Bennett], or Arturs [Matisons] absolutely FLY past me as they head downhill to hit up the first straight, now THAT’s BMX. Reminds me how Rad The Movie would have wanted racing to be if it could have been made practical.)
bmxultra.com: Do you remember where you were when you heard that BMX was included in the 2008 Olympics?
Jerry: Yes, very clearly. I was in Lausanne, Switzerland with UCI Johan and Brian Lopes. Not that I run with those guys just a daily occurrence, but I was there photographing the UCI’s Inauguration of their new BMX Training Track. I stayed an extra day, just to hang out at the UCI World Cycling Center on the Monday after the event on Sunday and we went to Lusanne, because Lopes was shopping for Porsches (I wasn’t! J) and while we were “shopping”, Johan told us that his boss told him that the IOC had just asked him to come up with a presentation on making BMX Racing an Olympic sport for 08. Wow! I couldn’t believe it, but Johan said that if they asked for it, there was a very high probability that it would happen. Of course, I was ‘sworn to secrecy’.
bmxultra.com: What did that announcement mean to you?
Jerry: To be real honest, I wasn’t quite as impacted as many people. While I’m not a pessimist, I’ve always had in the back of my mind that there’s not ONE thing that will make BMX “popular”, so I’ve never thought that it would be good for BMX in that it’ll make the sport GROW a lot, with hundreds of new riders flooding local tracks. There is a matter of pride in the accomplishment of BMX racing being viewed as a legitimate sport, with a berth in the Olympics. That’s awesome and we, as a sport will always be able to see that as an accomplishment.
bmxultra.com: What impact did you expect it would have on the sport?
Jerry: I guess I kind of answered that in the question above, but one last thing that I think has really had an impact is that some Pro/Elite riders around the world have gotten some pretty cool opportunities to make money and get support due to the Olympics.
bmxultra.com: What are your favourite websites?
Jerry: You’d think that I knew everything about every BMX web site, but I don’t have much time to visit many other BMX web sites because sometimes I’m working on BMX Mania and related projects 8 to 12 hours a day. The first thing I hit up in the morning is Fox News, to catch up on some news from overnight, then I dial in my Sirius Satellite Radio account online and listen to my favorite radio while I work on Mania. BMX wise, when I do have time, it’s bmxultra cuz Shane Jenkins is very creative and always has cool new stuff and BMXNews.com, cuz whoever runs that sometimes has fun stuff to check out that I have no clue about. Besides that, I visit ABABMX.com, NBL.org and UCI.ch to research stuff, cuz those groups are the ones that in my sphere of influence. OH! BMXmania.com. I read that one from cover to cover every day! Ha! I visit LOTS of BMX sites, when I get news coming in from people that send in news releases, because I don’t like to post news that I don’t know anything about. DaleHolmes.com site is always cool. I’m pretty bad, though, I don’t get around near how I should. I never go to VintageBMX.com unless someone gives me a direct link to the thread, because I can’t navigate all of those threads and still have time to do my own thing! That’s a MASSIVE operation.
bmxultra.com: You have been travelling to nearly as many major UCI events as the guys who were in the running for Olympic spots, what's the vibe you get?
Jerry: Very professional. Those UCI Supercross races are all bid on by outside organizers or groups like BMX Australia, and they pay to get the privilege. The UCI event team (Johan, Tom Ritz, Matti, Kyle and Corinne) come in and run those things and they are pretty well done. It’s sure not like NASCAR or the big MX events, but for BMX, it’s quite the great leap forward. I wish the riders could have access to more money, but with the possibility of races like what Jay Miron is doing in Canada with the ERA (Elite Racing Assoc.), offering BIG money prizes and great racing opportunities, maybe people can put together a more realistic pay “structure”. Overall, I would say that the international “vibe” is strong. There’ll probably be a drop off after the Olympics, but we’ll see. Maybe not. It’s hard to tell, cuz it’s SO expensive to do all of that travel all over the world, but it sure is fun.
bmxultra.com: Are the guys chasing Olympic glory putting all their eggs in the one basket?
Jerry: It’s not that much different than how the ABA/NBL thing has run with riders in America over the years. In the U.S., after the season is underway and the leaders kind of get sorted out, riders in the lead kind of decide if they’re going after one title or the other dependent on how well they’re doing in that particular sanction. It’s the same with the SX series. When some riders “knew” that they weren’t going to make the cut, you started NOT seeing them at the races. Mike Day, zeroed in on the World Circuit sometime last year, but he’s got support from some sponsors, has spent a lot of time living on Team USA’s resources in Chula Vista. It’s worked for him, but everyone doesn’t really have that option. I don’t think it’ll hurt those guys. It’s a pretty small group and when they do come out and race more “normal” races, people will be excited to see them and they’ll probably get as much support as they did in the past, if not more, so no, they haven’t really put all their bike parts in one gear bag.
bmxultra.com: What do you think of the Supercross events?
Jerry: OOPS! I did it again! I answered that question along with a previous one. But, overall, I LOVE them. I like to travel, and I like to see great BMXers racing on crazy tracks, so I like them. They aren’t for everyone, but they’re fun to watch.
bmxultra.com: Do you think that a supercross style track for the Olympics is the way to promote BMX?
Jerry: Yes, it’s certainly one way to promote the sport. It’s getting a lot of attention, and for years we’re heard top riders saying that they got sick of riding tracks that little kids can ride, which always seemed kind of dumb to me, cuz we’ve had to have little kids and parents at races, paying the pros way by providing a money base for the sanctions to provide Pro Purses. Now we have a series where the tracks can NOT be ridden by anyone but Elite Athletes and even then, some riders who are Elites. Also, to the best of my knowledge, no one has been injured on the big starting hill, and outside of Bubba’s wreck in Beijing, not any MAJOR injuries specifically due to the track being “extreme”. I’ve seen more injuries to Elites on the more “normal” tracks.
bmxultra.com: I mean it's not like Beach Volleyball create a special court surrounded by sharks to make it more appealing, but they did change the women's uniforms to make it more of a spectacle.
Jerry: It’s a spectacle, for sure. It seems to me that it’s good racing and fun to race, it’s about the only racing that I see as I travel around the world where the people in the crowd are NOT there because they race or brought their kids to race. In Madrid, the stadium was FULL of people who had no clue what was going on. They had a great time, cheering on the riders, and I’ll bet that the percentage of BMXers in the crowd was far less than 50%. No one else can say that, anywhere in BMX.
bmxultra.com: Thanks for the interview Jerry, maybe we should do a fully blown interview soon
Jerry: Thanx for the opportunity to do this interview, Shane. Your site has long been one of the premier BMX racing sites, keep up the great work.
Check out bmxmania.com fo the latest updates from the Beijing Olympics at www.bmxmania.com
by bmxultra.com
Today's review is the ITS Micro Knobby. It's quite impressive just how much grip these tires provide in the right conditions. Click here to check out the review.
by bmxultra.com
We have invested a little time over the weekend to put together an Olympics page which has information about the track, the racing schedule, and a whole bunch of links to relevant websites and TV schedules for Australia and the USA.
If you have any information you think could be useful to your fellow BMXers just send it through. Even if it's just links to articles, interviews, and so on I am sure that everyone will enjoy it.
by Ian Maclachlan
The Factory
Film Update - We just spent 3 days last week with Luke Madill, Tanya Bailey, Jared Graves and Kamakazi and the coaching staff of Cycling Australia. I wont go into what the team did over the the week for reasons i am sure you all understand but i will tell you that whatever the result they will make us proud. All of the athletes have had a massive journey over the last year and half not to mention since the announcement of the sports inclusion into the Olympics was made in 2003. The extensive traveling, sacrifices, new beginnings, comebacks, rivalry, retirements, highs and lows come to this point. The Aussie team flew out on Friday Beijing bound to prepare for the big show on the 20th and 21st. For our film it was valuable time with the team and we continue to thank the boys and Tanya for allowing us to be around at such an important time of their preparation. The boys in our film have always been accommodating not to mention the Australian coaching staff who without their consent this film would not be the documentary that it will be. Tanya Bailey is a champ too, one of the nicest riders we have met and it was great to capture on tape even if just a speck a little of her of her own Olympic journey. A lot of people have asked why we are not going to Beijing. In the short of it its like this, being a communist country their are very tight constraints on media in China even at our level and even on a normal day. You can get into the country with a little dv camera but when you have a $12000 HD camera then things change. I wont even go into the red tape that is involved. You just cant waltz in with a broadcast looking camera without the right visa and expect to be able to pass through the airport. So then we could go and take a little dv camera and pretend we are not there filming (already done it once) but the team is in the Olympic Village so access is not great. Also Channel 7 has the broadcast rights so there was never a chance of getting in the venue with equipment. Besides we feel that this is their time, the business end of the season. Time to just worry about themselves, they will have enough media commitments to worry about already. We will instead focus our money to catch up with Khalen Young and his family in the U.S for a last chance to get footage and to checkout Khalen’s chase for an ABA title. Once the Olympics are over we will be still flat out for a while getting footage and interviews. Then will come editing, actually money needs to come first then editing. That was a plug for sponsorship if anyone would like to jump on board. We have a goal to have the film ready for Christmas but seriously something in the sponsorship world has to happen. Our bank managers don’t answer calls anymore but we don’t take it personally. We are both excited and sad to think that our journey of following the boys is almost over, the thing is but we are all friends now and I don’t think that will change so we kind of can't wait to kind of hang a bit without having to do an interview afterwards. It will be great to be not so guarded about what you say to who about what to each of them. We have been keepers of 8 or so riders information over the last year and a half and have been lucky enough to capture it on film for you all.
This more of a view than an update -
What an awesome week this is has been already, counting down the days until we see one of the most exciting sports in the Olympic program. Not sure about anyone else but I am standing a little prouder about our sport this week, no more hiding what we do on the weekends in fear of the normal reaction to racing BMX. Time to let everyone know who we are and what we do and it’s displayed this week by our countries best. It will be all over all to soon but enjoy the week and enjoy the 2 days of following the teams progress. When all is said and done and the jury sits waiting for what the Olympic inclusion did for the sport, whether or not long term gains are made with participation, sponsorship and profile. Remember the riders who mostly since 2003 have had that Olympic idea in their minds, then committed their lives to giving themselves the best chance whether privateer or industry/government backed to make it to the Olympics. Our pioneers, each countries best of the best and not just the riders that are competing at the Olympics. Every rider who said to themselves that they would give it a shot over the last couple of years, to raise the bar within themselves. The Olympics is not just one race, its the last and biggest race of possibly the sports most competitive year and a half. Every rider involved has made up the story of this historic period, so when the internet forums start up not long after the show is over and maybe those big changes don't happen, for the sports elite it has been the biggest time of their lives. I believe that the change will come from the riders within the sport, tell me that every junior out their come mid week, seeing the countries elite's that they see down at the local track in their hometown's wont get that feeling that one day that could be them. What an awesome oppurtunity for our junior riders and maybe a few at home to set themselves a 4 or 8 year goal the day after watching the team compete at the ultimate level, to achieve sports highest honor. All of the involved riders have their own personal story of success and failure during the last couple of years. Some have gained more in their personal lives that have outweighed the lure of a gold medal which is a massive success within itself. So before we look at what it has done for our sport, lets look at what it has done for our riders. 32 guys and 16 ladies line up this week and i can account for the Aussies that they are feeling faster than they have ever felt in their entire careers. Congratulations to all BMX Racers across the world who have made us proud and continue you to make us proud by giving our sport a competitive and professional show every time. I know that there would be ex riders from all over the world who would give anything to be in these riders shoes, maybe not clips and a Supercross track but to commit ourselves to achieving a massive goal and to even to say that they had a shot at it. I remember a night at Windsor BMX track in Brisbane 20 years ago as a fifteen year old shredder and the rumor at the track was that BMX Racing was finally going to be in the Olympics. We were all so stoked of the possibility of this happening not for what it would do to the sport but for a chance that maybe we one day could compete for a gold medal. Its taken 20 years to now finally make it. Again i say congratulations to the riders, their families who must be going through their own Olympic journey and the whole sport for that matter. Win, lose, coverage, no coverage, changes, no changes I am stoked to be a BMXer. Watching Australians compete in sports we don’t participate in is one thing but you cant top cheering on your own in the sport you love.
Good luck to all riders this week, enjoy the the finale of the journey.
The Factory Competition
The Factory has 2 “Life Behind Bars The Olympic Journey” t- shirts to give away signed by the Australia’s men’s team – Luke Madill, Jared Graves & Kamakazi. The shirt is the same design as worn by The Factory crew around the track. We are looking for a display of Olympic spirit, film yourself wishing our men’s and women’s team good luck or maybe you are having a gathering or a party that you can film a bit for us. Have the camera rolling while you are watching the the Aussies or film yourself after the racing congratulating the team. DV tapes only will be accepted and sorry tapes cannot be returned, with your consent there is a chance that your well wishes, show of spirit/patriotism could make it onto the Life Behind Bars The Olympic Journey finished DVD. This is why we are after DV tapes so we get the best quality possible. Videos with a bit of creativity will be awarded more points for winning the shirts but don’t let that deter you from entering, the Olympic team will eventually be shown your videos so let them know of your support and lets get heaps of tapes in from all over Australia over all generations. The shirts will go to the best 2 entries judged by The Factory team and as much as possible all entries will be on the DVD in some capacity. So be seen on the Australian BMX Racing Documentary by The Factory – “Life Behind Bars The Olympic Journey”. Send your entries to 12 Kellor Ct Upper Coomera 4209 by end of post on Friday 29th August 2008. Include your name, phone number as well as an e-mail address if you have one.
HRVfitness press release
Racing in Victoria (Australia) has been quiet for a long time, but now we are starting to see the next generation come through and take charge. With riders like Michael Chasteauneuf , Josh Callan and Team HRVfitness.com rider Mat Dunsworth. Mat has been on fire since his win at the 2008 Australian titles and two top 8 finishes at the 2008 World titles in China. He is the man to beat in Victoria at the moment with consecutive win at his last 3 races.
Also coming away with a win last weekend was another HRVFitness.com rider Madison Denholm (13 boys). Maddi's form has been up and down of late, but he is now back on track for the second half on the Victorian season. Maddi is also a former National Champion and world top 8 finisher.
Keep an eye out for team leader Tony HRV Harvey. HRV had his first race back in almost 2 years at the Knox round of the Metro plate, finishing with a second behind current Victorian AA champion Michael Chasteauneuf.
Do you want to get faster? now you have no excuse! go to www.hrvfitness.com for all your online BMX training.
Supported by: Avent, BMXPress, Body Science, Kompressorz, Fox, Louis Garneau and Dirt Design
by bmxultra.com
While TV programmers are trying to work out what BMX will be available on TV, channel 7 in Australia will have a live stream of the Qualifiers on August 20 at 12pm (Australian EST).
Check out this link for the full details:
http://au.sports.yahoo.com/olympics/news/article/-/4888511/
With the debut of BMX at the Olympics only a week away now keep your eyes on your local TV guides.
SE Bikes press release
SE Bikes is offering an alternative to the backpack. With the new SE Messenger bag you have access to all your stuff without taking the bag off your body. With a water resistant 1000D shell and a Nylon liner, the bags also feature an adjustable shoulder strap and chest strap to keep it secure to your body and out of the way when you are riding. Both the Wing Bag and Numberplate bag feature classic SE graphics embroidered into the flap. Internal pockets keep your small dirty items separate from the large main compartment. You know, so you don't get grease on your bananas….
ABA press release
The 2008 Olympics are well underway in Beijing, China and BMX racings' debut is just a week away. The excitement is building within the industry and fans with the anticipation for BMX racing hitting the world stage. Below are the airdates and times listed by NBC. We just wanted everyone to be aware of the dates and times so they don't miss out. Please forward this on to all your friends and family to spread the BMX word. GO TEAM USA!!
Aug. 19th 8:00-9:00pm, Primetime, Live ET/CT
Men's BMX Cycling
Aug. 20th 12:30-2:00am
Men's BMX Cycling Quarterfinals
Aug. 20th 2:00-5:00am
Men's BMX Cycling, Primetime Replay
Aug. 20th 8:00-10:00pm, Primetime, Live ET/CT
Mens and Womens BMX Cycling Finals
Aug. 21st 2:00-5:00am
Mens and Womens BMX Cycling Finals, Primetime Replay
by bmxultra.com
Here's another mini interview in our Olympic Perspective series where we ask the industry leaders about BMX racing at the Olympics. This time it's Chris the head honcho at One Bicycles.
bmxultra.com: How many riders will be at the Olympics on One Bicycles?
Chris: Arturs Matisons (Latvia)
Maris Strombergs (Latvia)
Emilio Falla (Ecuador)
Gabriela Diaz (Argentina)
Belen Dutto (Argentina)
bmxultra.com: What's your take on the Olympics now they are just around the corner?
Chris: I just let it happen, I don't want to expect too much. That way it will never be a dissappointment.
bmxultra.com: What do you think of the way countries have selected riders?
Chris: Well I know from the countries my riders race from and that was the right way tho pick the riders...the best riders.
bmxultra.com: What do you think the Olympics will do for BMX racing in general?
Chris: Hope it will give the sport a boost.
bmxultra.com: Do you think the Olympics is a good representation of the best riders in BMX?
Chris: Yes and no. Some countries have been added that have no top riders and the track is not a real BMX track as we all know.
bmxultra.com: What has more prestige for BMX Olympics or World Championships?
Chris: I think Olympics.
bmxultra.com: As a sponsor of many riders do you get better value out of a rider with an Olympic focus or European race focus?
Chris: We have always been focussing on the European races, but with the Olympics as our main goal.
bmxultra.com: Thanks Chris for taking the time to answer the questions, good luck to your riders.
NBL press release
Hilliard, Ohio: The 2008 NBL Grand National of BMX begins only 8 days following the sport’s thrilling debut at the Olympic Games in Beijing, China and once again, the highly-coveted NBL Pro titles will be decided on Labor Day weekend. Kicking off this year’s program on Friday, August 29, the pros will duke it out during the War of the Stars/UGP Open Championship to earn one last valuable national score. 24 hours later they will race their way into the history books at the 2nd Annual NBL Pro Spectacular on Saturday evening. A growing number of International stars are headed to Louisville, KY to mix it up with the title chasers and with more than $40,000 on the line, the NBL Grands will once again be the most exciting race of the year on American soil.
GO211.com, the official webcast partner of the NBL, will be streaming ‘live’ Grands coverage starting on Friday and running all the way through to the completion of Sunday’s amateur mains. Saturday’s Pro Spectacular will crown of as many as four new Pro Champions and the ‘pumped-up’ program will feature rockin’ music, the Intense ‘Build-A-Bike’ contest, and much more. Be sure to stop by the GO211 Pro Pit during the day and get autographs from your favorite pros. As part of the GO211 broadcast team, Craig Reynolds, a top pro in the NBL for many years, will make a guest appearance joining hosts Brian Fell and Tim Dinger.
Free Agent’s Kyle Bennett, the reigning NBL Champion, will be competing at the Olympics in Beijing and hopes to bring home the Gold for USA. Though Kyle may still attend the Grands, the title chase is now between his team-mate Cristian Becerine, who is racing at the Olympics for Argentina, and GT’s Randy Stumpfhauser. Race Place BMX’s Stephanie Barragan has a good lead over Redline’s Kim Hayashi but Li’l Kim can narrow the gap with a win on Friday and as we all know, anything can happen at the ‘Grands’.
In Master’s action, Free Agent’s Dale Holmes and Supercross’s Kenth Fallen will bring their year-long rivalry to a thrilling conclusion – The two veterans are tied in points with a chance for separation on Friday but Formula’s Tim ‘Ding Ding’ Dinger will be aiming to spoil the party. The Super-Ex title will also be settled on Saturday between Intense/Phantom On-Trac’s Kris Fox and Haro’s Logan Collins with Felt’s Matt Kelty holding the spoiler card.
Can’t make it or have friends who want to watch? Tune into GO211.com and watch as the NBL season unfolds in front of your eyes. Watch the ‘live’ Grands webcast and catch all of the action at http://www.go211.com/u/grandnationals08. Visit the NBL website www.nbl.org to see current standings.
The 2008 NBL Grand National is proudly sponsored by BAWLS Guarana (www.bawls.com), Intense BMX (www.intensebmx.com), Kenda Tires (www.kendausa.com), Standard Byke Company (www.standardbyke.com), UGP (www.undergroundproducts.com) Sinz Racing (www.sinz-racing.com), THE Industries (www.bmxthe.com), HotShoppe Designs (www.hotshoppedesigns.com), in association with GO211 (www.go211.com) and Camp Woodward (www.campwoodward.com).
Remaining Pro Series Events:
2008 NBL Pro Series – Top 10 after Music City
NBL Pro Men
1. Cristian Becerine, CA 172-12
2. Randy Stumpfhauser, CA 165-13
3. Kyle Bennett, TX 131-6
4. Matt Pohlkamp, OH 125-11
5. Jason Richardson, CA 116-13
6. Donny Robinson, CA 110-7
7. Philip Delizia, NJ 101-9
8. Tyler Brown, CA 97-11
9. Javier Columbo, CA 97-9
10. Barry Nobles, AL 94-7
NBL Pro Women
1. Stephanie Barragan, CA 191-11
2. Kim Hayashi, AZ 156-7
3. Madison Pitts, FL 152-9
4. Danielle Brisson, CAN 119-7
5. Rachel Smith, OH 119-7
6. Amanda Geving, FL 116-6
7. Donna Snow, FL 75-7
8. Liz Passwaters, DE 74-4
9. Alise Post, MN 50-2
10. Toni Rude, MO 50-3
NBL Masters
1. Dale Holmes, CA 191-10
2. Kenth Fallen, NM 191-10
3. Tim Dinger, NC 178-14
4. Percy Owens, FL 165-12
5. Tommy Opincar, TN 154-14
6. Jason Carnes, TX 138-10
7. Philip Potosnak, PA 122-11
8. David Bittner, CA 119-8
9. Rual Gomes, FL 108-10
10. Domingos Lammoglia, FL 104-9
NBL Super-Ex
1. Kristopher Fox, CA 177-13
2. Logan Collins, TN 171-15
3. Matthew Kelty, DE 155-10
4. Warren McDow, GA 127-10
5. Carlos Oquendo, OH 100-4
6. Gavin Lubbe, CA 92-5
7. Randall Neave, FL 91-11
8. Tyler Faoro, FL 85-6
9. CJ McGuire, FL 82-4
10. Jason Morris, CA 73-4
bmxultra.com press release
Despite the cold and wet winter weather the bmxultra.com team have been busy representing across the country.
Westside Super Series Round 5
Round 5 of the Western Australian State Super Series was held under clear blue skies and very little wind – quite a change in the past month with wet weather creating limited opportunities for training and racing in Perth.
There has been a 2 month break since the last round and an over 400 rider entry list illustrated that all were very keen to get back into banging bars.
bmxultra.com Team member Matt Butterworth was entered in the Bruiser (30+) Cruiser and 30+ Open and keen to increase his points in the series standings. Going in to Round 5, Matt was leading the Bruiser Cruiser series overall and second in the 30+ Open series overall.
A 17 rider Bruiser Cruiser entry list meant a semi final for the first time since the class’ inception in 2003 and Matt transferred to the main in 4th place. However this meant 2nd last pick for lane choice which left him in Lane 7. Trailing for most of the main in 6th spot, Matt narrowly missed carnage in the last corner courtesy of a fall by Peter Allsop to take home 5th place. Karl Mustchin took home the chocolates followed by Tony Hancox and Tony Keogh in 3rd.
The 30+ Open was no less sedate with 11 riders entered. Matt easily transferred to the main qualifying in second behind Tony Hancox. This was to be his finishing position in the final with Matt mowing down come-back rider Craig Sergeant on the final straight to pick up the 2 spot. These final placings consolidated Matt’s position in the overall series with Round 6 in Narrogin on August 17.
The bmxultra.com team is proudly supported by One Bicycles, Supercross BMX, Answer BMX, Dirt Designs, THE, Profile, Sun Ringle, and Tektro Brakes.
by bmxultra.com
Well it's finally here, the official opening of the Beijing Olympics is just a few hours away. While BMX will make it's debut on the big stage it doesn't seem like there will be many, if any, BMXers involved in the ceremony. With the BMX being late in the second week it will be a week before many of the riders arrive in China.
by bmxultra.com
If you are looking for some big bars, and 28 inches just isn't wide enough click here to check this review out.
by bmxultra.com
If you remember reading an interview with Todd Parry on ultra you are right, that was a few years ago now. Since then TP has made a lot of changes, he's now racing for GHP and retired into the A pro class from Vet Pro...don't worry you read that correctly, and it's difficult for me to explain, so click here to read the interview and find out more about TP's retirement and a whole lot more.
ABA Press release
Since 1985 the ABA has Inducted Members Annually Into the ABA BMX Hall of Fame
Gilbert, Arizona— The ABA (American Bicycle Association) announced today that voting has commenced for the 2008 ABA BMX “Hall of Fame”. Each year since 1985, a select group of BMX (Bicycle Motocross) riders and/or industry veterans have been nominated. Once again this year the ABA BMX “Hall of Fame” committee has chosen the nominees from “Early BMX Pioneers”, “BMX Racers” and “Industry Members”.
The ABA BMX “Hall of Fame” is the who’s who of BMX and it consists of riders and industry members who have made notable contributions to the sport. Although the voting is open to the public, nominations are done by committee. To be honored by the committee and be added to the ballot is important, but the public chooses the final winners.
This year marks a change in voting as the ballots will be available online at www.ababmx.com. The voting will be available to the public from August 5th through September 5th, 2008. Voting is restricted to one vote per person and you must leave an e-mail address for your vote to count.
CLICK HERE TO VOTE!
Results will be announced at the ABA Grandnationals annual “Hall of Fame” luncheon on November 27th, 2008.
ABA (American Bicycle Association), formed in 1977 and headquartered in Gilbert, Arizona, is “The Sanctioning Body BMX”©. The ABA organizes BMX racing for boys, girls and adults, nationwide and Canada. With 60,000 active members, 274 racing facilities and a 27 event-national race schedule; ABA is the worlds largest promoter of action sports. For additional press information about ABA, the sport of BMX, ABA events or professional racers, call (480) 961-1903 X-144 or e-mail Shannon@ababmx.com . To find races in your area or view the national event schedule, visit www.ababmx.com.
NBL press release
Hilliard, Ohio – The National Bicycle League’s official BMX race publication, BMX Today Magazine, has released the August issue with a special Olympic preview inside. Excalibur’s Josh Meyers is the well-deserving cover-boy and there’s plenty of good stuff to read this month. Check out the in-depth interviews with Team USA’s Kyle Bennett, Donny Robinson, Mike Day and Jill Kintner plus you’ll get a peak at several of the top international Olympic hopefuls. UCI’s BMX Coordinator, Johan Lindstrom, provides his insight into the Games and there are even a few words from ‘Wild’ Bill Young.
Hot race coverage includes a full color section from South Park and coverage from the Golden State and Southern Charm Nationals. Also inside, Bring-A-Buddy points and prizes for June are updated and there’s even a new ‘Tech Talk’ section to explore.
BMX Today is distributed to all licensed NBL Members, to bike shops around the country and throughout the industry. If you haven’t received your copy in the next week, be sure to email bmxtoday@nbl.org to make sure you get a copy. For more information, visit www.nbl.org. The September issue will be distributed at the Grands and include a special Grands Preview.
NBL press release
UGP (www.undergroundproducts.com) and the National Bicycle League (NBL) joined forces to pump-up the NBL’s Open program and the new UGP Open Series was born. In addition to more than $4,000 in spot prizes at the NBL Pro Events, all riders who make 2 Open mains at National events will be qualified to enter the UGP Open Championship. And it gets even better – Any riders who make 4 or more mains are qualified for the Championship plus they receive a ‘limited edition’ UGP Number plate when they register for the Championship. (Note: if you have a class without a main, it counts the same as making the main)
2008 UGP Open Championship
Friday, August 29 at the NBL Grands (runs with War of the Stars Pro Event in the evening).
Entry Fees:
Registration: On-site, Friday 7am-4pm
Prizes:
Are you qualified? Here’s who’s in so far:
(not listed? Contact Angel Dorr at adorr@nbl.org)
7 & Under Open |
Mains |
|
12-13 Open |
|
Connor Randall |
2 |
|
Michael Jarrett |
2 |
Maximus Broach |
2 |
|
Dalton Pedota |
2 |
Nick Mc Donald |
3 |
|
William Reeves |
2 |
Ryan Powell |
3 |
|
Kyle Fernandez |
2 |
Bentley Garcia |
2 |
|
Bradley Hamilton |
2 |
David Giordano |
2 |
|
Jarred Johnson |
2 |
Kaiser Kayton |
2 |
|
Trent Newkirk |
2 |
Logan Maxey |
2 |
|
Austin Fowble |
2 |
Trevor Guthrie |
2 |
|
Nicholas Givargis |
2 |
Jeffrey Eletto |
2 |
|
Heath Hart |
2 |
Trenton Guthrie |
2 |
|
Zachary Vankammen |
2 |
Kyle Kruysman |
2 |
|
Matt Westergren |
2 |
Chloe Merced |
2 |
|
Derek Wilkerson |
2 |
William Reynolds |
5 |
|
Caleb Minthorn |
6 |
Anthony Feinstein |
4 |
|
Maliek Byndloss |
10 |
|
|
|
Kody Wong |
5 |
8-9 Open |
|
|
|
|
Colin Whittington |
2 |
|
14-15 Open |
|
Triston Judd |
3 |
|
Taylor Deltuva |
2 |
Louis Kaminski Iii |
3 |
|
Aaron Van Alstine Jr |
2 |
John Clark |
2 |
|
Kevin Bejarano |
2 |
Luigi Gigliuto |
3 |
|
Austin Boswell |
2 |
Jed Barber |
2 |
|
Joseph Hanley |
2 |
Steven Ohly |
2 |
|
Austin (Aj) Hiatt |
2 |
Jarrett Biddle |
3 |
|
Jimmy Leslie |
2 |
Tyshawn Carr |
2 |
|
Brandon Stapinsky |
2 |
Noah Roark |
2 |
|
Dan Tritz |
2 |
Gabriel Barwick |
3 |
|
Guillermo Alvarez |
3 |
Nathan Stymus |
3 |
|
Andres Arenas Correa |
2 |
Kyle Davis |
2 |
|
Jshwar Martijn |
2 |
Eli Garcia |
2 |
|
Bobby Mc Gill |
2 |
Robbie Merced |
2 |
|
Alex Palmer |
2 |
Danielle Sanchez |
2 |
|
Jonathan Roberts |
2 |
Gabe Hatem |
4 |
|
Jeremy Rommel |
2 |
Jason Baird |
4 |
|
Tay Wilborn |
2 |
Colton Mitchell |
4 |
|
Thivanka(Tw) Weerasekara |
8 |
Luke Reinhart |
4 |
|
Blake Sawyer |
7 |
|
|
|
Tas Slavin |
10 |
10-11 Open |
|
|
|
|
Brian Manning |
3 |
|
16-29 Money Open |
|
Blake Bass |
2 |
|
Jarrod Adcock |
3 |
Austin Palasota |
2 |
|
Elliot Mcgrath |
3 |
Zachary Delong |
2 |
|
William Grant |
2 |
Sky Finley |
2 |
|
Juan-Camilo Marin |
2 |
Dillon Leslie |
2 |
|
Tj Mc Queen |
2 |
Joey Caputo |
3 |
|
Mickual Glass |
3 |
Parker Maisterra |
3 |
|
Nick Lucas |
3 |
Perry De Vido |
2 |
|
Kyle Mc Rory |
3 |
Coleman Habib |
2 |
|
Cory Watts |
3 |
Lucas Howes |
2 |
|
Dale Cushman |
2 |
Colin Severson |
2 |
|
Brian Mayo |
2 |
Michael Walters Jr |
2 |
|
Ryan Mehaffey |
2 |
Myles Wamsley |
2 |
|
Andy Wright |
2 |
Ryan Wilkerson |
2 |
|
Markus Ashe |
3 |
Owen Witcher |
2 |
|
Michael Henderson |
3 |
Justin Knapper |
3 |
|
Brad Lovell |
3 |
Daniel Downey |
2 |
|
Lee Lewis |
2 |
Justin Klanderud |
2 |
|
Joshua Meyers |
2 |
Ashton Mc Graw |
2 |
|
Johnny Woodmansee |
2 |
River Daugherty |
4 |
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Thomas Zula |
5 |
Billy Lowery |
4 |
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Nicholas Long |
6 |
Gihan (Gw) Weerasekara |
8 |
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Cj Bunch |
4 |
Walter O'brien |
4 |
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Maurice Horton |
4 |
Chance Leffew |
5 |
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Alejandro Monsalve |
4 |
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Jacob Trevino |
4 |
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Weston Pope |
4 |
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30 & Over Open |
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Peter Dylewski |
2 |
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Thomas Gonzalez |
2 |
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John Pringle |
4 |
by bmxultra.com
This is our third installment of the "Olympic Perspective" series of mini interviews with leaders within the BMX racing industry.
This time it's with Crupi's head honcho Greg Swingrover.
bmxultra.com: How many riders will be at the Olympics on Crupi?
Greg: Crupi will have Scott Erwood from Canada and Liam Phillips from England competing in the Olympics.
bmxultra.com: What's your take on the Olympics now they are just around the corner?
Greg: The excitement is still building but will be even more exciting now that 2 of our riders are there. However, the real excitement for me will be after the Olympics to see what effect it had on our sport. I really hope it works out so well that it will leave a lasting buzz in our sport similar to what snow boarding did for their sport when it first appeared in the Olympics.
bmxultra.com: What do you think of the way countries have selected riders?
Greg: Selection is really difficult to pinpoint as some countries have a large field of good riders to choose from (like the USA) where other countries only have 1 or 2 guys to choose from. I know there is some controversy out there about how some countries chose their rider(s) but when it comes to an "Olympic" selection, each country has their own way of choosing and even if it is not the popular choice, it must be respected. The bottom line is when it comes to the Olympics, there are many factors to consider when making the choice like rider health and even how a rider performs under immense pressure Most people will never know why a country chose one rider over another but I believe that the rider(s) who were consistent through the qualifying races leading up to the Olympics and are the rider(s) who earned the spot for their countries entry into the Olympics should be the rider(s) who represent their country at the Olympics provided they are in good health during the Olympics.
bmxultra.com: What do you think the Olympics will do for BMX racing in general?
Greg: BMX racing in the Olympics can only be a good thing for the sport. However, it will really depend on the TV coverage it gets and how much the industry gets behind their Olympic riders once the games are over. This push could be great for the sport which will benefit everyone but if it comes out bad, then it may not make much of a difference in the long run. As an industry, we only have these summer games and the games in 2012 to get it right!
bmxultra.com: Do you think the Olympics is a good representation of the best riders in BMX?
Greg: The field of Elite riders around the world today is so deep that I believe you could take the top 60 or so riders (not just the 32 competing in the Olympics) and make a great race out of it. There are so many factors to consider about each rider like how well they do on a Supercross type track rather than a regular track, how healthy they are at the games and of course there is the luck factor which is always a part of racing. The fastest guy is not necessarily the one who will win.
bmxultra.com: What has more prestige for BMX Olympics or World Championships?
Greg: Right now I would have to say the World Championships is more prestigious since there are the best riders from around the world competing, not just the top 32 and it has such a history that makes a win mean so much more. The Olympics is supposed to be the next step above a World Championship but that will remain to be seen!
bmxultra.com: As a sponsor of many riders do you get better value out of a rider with an Olympic focus or NBL/ABA focus?
Greg: I think it is different for each company depending on their market. For Crupi, I think there is a little more value in a rider with an Olympic focus because that rider (and sponsor) are seen by the world and competing against the best riders in the world rather than just on their home turf. When these riders with the Olympic focus race at home, I think they get a little more respect knowing they travel around the world to compete rather than just being a home town hero. Having a rider with that type of respect is great for the sport and great for the sponsors.
bmxultra.com: Thanks Greg for your time.
Look out for the next installment of Olympic Perspective soon.
THE press release
This "Special" helmet is the THE One Limited ABA BMX Nag #1 edition. This helmet will be awarded to each and every 2008 ABA BMX NAG #1 Champion for all their hard work in the 2008 ABA BMX season. This THE ONE helmet will be the icing on the cake as a reward for your years worth of great racing finishes and finishing at the top of your class.
Made from our Composite THE ONE Helmet, the ABA BMX NAG#1 Edition shows THE’s commitment to excellence. The THE ONE Helmet is not only a thing of beauty but the most thought out and technically advanced CSPC and CE Certified Full Face Cycling helmet available. Our Engineering Team worked closely with the World’s Top Athlete’s to push the envelope in helmet design. From the ground up the ONE helmet Line is as advanced functionally as it is in its cosmetic detail. We are excited to offer such a great helmet to the riders who achieve such a well earned accomplishment, the ABA BMX NAG #1 title.
An anatomically shaped Dual EPS Helmet liner is an industry first, covered in a removable/ washable custom printed THE helmet interior makes this the most comfortable helmet you may ever use. Massive ventilation comes from 4 air channels connecting 15 vents, allowing cool air to come in cool your body and exit through the rear of the helmet. So perfect it may become a mantel piece not your helmet.
Features include:
The Helmet will be offered to each ABA BMX NAG #1 Champion in either a Youth or Adult Size. THE Products will have a sample of the helmets at the ABA BMX Grands for riders who are up for the ABA BMX NAG #1 title to come by and get sized, as well as fill out an information card. If you are awarded the ABA BMX NAG #1 title, you will be hand delivered your new THE ABA BMX NAG #1 Helmet at the 2009 ABA BMX Season Opener in Reno, NV. The THE Helmet sizing will be offered on Saturday at the ABA BMX Grands at the Intense BMX / Bawls Guarana Pro Team Trailer.
Sizes offered – Youth Small – Youth XL and Adult XS – Adult XL
Please check out all the most excellent THE and Intense BMX products here- ) Intense BMX-(www.intensebmx.com) T.H.E. (www.bmxthe.com)
STAATS / BB Cycles / Fly press release
Westside BMX Club played host to round 5 of the WA Super Series on Sunday 3rd August. A week of rain meant there were concerns over how the track would stand up, but fortunately the rain eased on the Saturday, allowing some repairs to the track, and by Sunday the track was in excellent condition for racing. There were 442 nominations – ensuring a good day of racing.
The STAATS / BB Cycles / Fly race team dusted off the cobwebs for their first event in 3 ½ months since the nationals – with 5 riders taking part (Daniel Cobham will miss the rest of the year due to a recent knee re-construction).
The newest member of the team, Liam Smith was back to racing after a long lay off which started with an ankle injury before Christmas. Liam dominated the 13 boys expert class on his STAATS Pro XL – easily winning the final over some quality opposition. With this being his first race in 9 months, we look forward to a strong showing come State Titles time.
There is still insufficient numbers for an 8yo girls class, so Grace McDonald is still fighting it out with 9 and 10 yo girls in age class and voucher. Grace rode well and picked up a third place in voucher.
The 11 Boys expert class is always tough, but Doyle Holl rode strong all day. His local experience meant he would make the final and finish a credible 4th place.
Jaymin King , now recovered from the knee injury sustained at the Nationals, was having his first race back, and as always looked super smooth on his STAATS Pro XXL. Jaymin would finish second in the 15 boys expert class, but went one better in the A –pro, winning all 3 finals and taking home the money.
Mason King made the move to AA at Westside, and while riding strong all day, just missed a place in the final after a run off with 3 others. Mason has been focusing on Year 12 recently, but intends to pick up the training for 2009.
Thanks to the Westside club for putting on an excellent event. The presentation of the track and facilities was superb.
The team is proudly sponsored by STAATS Bicycles, BB Cycles and Fly Racing.
by bmxultra.com
Another legendary Warragul race meeting is in the history books. But as the great Dylan said "Times they are a changin'". While the Warragul track is still very much an old school track, the new random electronic starting mechanism was a reminder that we can't hold on to everything from the past. It's great to see the club moving forward for their own riders. Anyway, we got a whole bunch of photos, click here to check them out.
by bmxultra.com
This is the second installment of the "Olympic Perspective" series of mini interviews with leaders within the BMX racing industry.
This time it's with Dale Holmes, 2 times elite world champion and current elite masters world champion, amongst all his achievements Dale is the currant Free Agent Rider/Team Manager.
bmxultra.com: How many riders will be at the Olympics on Free Agent?
Dale: Ramiro Marino Argentina,
Cristian Becerine Argentina,
Kyle Bennett USA,
Andres Jimenez Colombia,
Nicole Callisto Australia &
Marc Willers New Zealand
bmxultra.com: What's your take on the Olympics now they are just around the corner?
Dale: I'm excited as a BMX fan to see the showcase of our sport on the big screen!
bmxultra.com: What do you think of the way countries have selected riders?
Dale: Drama, drama, drama! Maybe the US did it the best way.
bmxultra.com: What do you think the Olympics will do for BMX racing in general?
Dale: Hopefully get more outside awareness and the real World can see how cool our sport is enabling it to grow in the future.
bmxultra.com: Do you think the Olympics is a good representation of the best riders in BMX?
Dale: Not necessarily. For sure the big dogs are there but still a few are missing and there is a handful of riders I would not even consider top Elite. But that's the Olympics I think this happens in most Olympic sports.
bmxultra.com: What has more prestige for BMX Olympics or World Championships?
Dale: For sure the Olympics. But a World Title is not that bad either.
bmxultra.com: As a team manager of many riders do you get better value out of a rider with an Olympic focus or NBL/ABA focus?
Dale: Again not necessarily the Olympics. The Olympic riders ride for there National Teams. Logos and Sponsorship placement are minimal. But on the flip side if a rider medals it will make great advertising for the future. Most of our riders having been chasing both and a week after the games it will be back to business chasing NBL points and titles!
bmxultra.com: Thanks Dale for taking the time to talk to us.
Look out for the next Olympic Perspective soon.
Intense/Bawls Guarana press release
Danny Caluag wins 3 out of 4 Pro Events in Utah!
The Intense BMX / Bawls Guarana BMX Pro team of Danny Caluag and David Herman looked forward to round 8 of the 2008 ABA Pro Tour, as the boys sat atop the ABA Pro Points chase in AA Pro with Danny in 1st and David just behind in 3rd. With a the mid summer rush of BMX racing for the team, Utah was a race that was looked towards, as it is one of the best tracks on the ABA tour. Danny and David were both ready to take to the track and here is how they finished up at the end of the weekend:
Danny Caluag had an incredible weekend in Salt Lake City. Danny, the 2007 ABA #1 Pro, has already had a great season with a slew of wins in both AA Pro and Pro Cruiser. Danny had the fans stoked on his custom painted Bawls Blue Intense Podium bike. On Day 1, Danny won both the AA Pro main event and Pro Cruiser races. On Sunday, Danny once again won Pro Cruiser and finished up 6th in AA Pro. Danny now has 6 wins in the AA Pro Class and 8 Wins in Pro Cruiser for 2008.
David Herman was looking to lessen up the gap between himself and Danny in the Pro points battle, and he did just that with a 2nd place finish in AA Pro on Saturday. On Sunday, David was looking for another podium finish on his Intense Podium Pro XL frame, but was held back to a 5th in AA overall. David, the 2007 ABA Rookie Pro of the year has had a break out season and looks to be in contention and do battle with Danny come time at the ABA Grands this year.
The Intense BMX/Bawls Guarana Pro team is proud to have the following sponsors: Intense BMX, BAWLS Guarana, Fly Racing, Skull Candy, Shimano, THE Products, SINZ Racing, Intense Tyre Systems, OGIO, Cyto Sport, Thomson, Oakley, GO211.com, S & M Bars, and BMXpros.com.
For more information in the Intense BMX/Bawls Guarana Pro team or the line of Intense BMX bikes, please visit www.IntenseBMX.com. For more information on Bawls Guarana, please visit http://bawls.com/
ABA press release
The American Bicycle Association hosted the Great Salt Lake Nationals this past weekend, July 25-27, in West Jordan, UT. The RAD CANYON BMX Facility is main stay on the ABA BMX tour and has a long standing history with the racers and fans alike. RAD CANYON BMX is always a must attend for the racers and this year they were treated to a freshly rebuilt track from GT Bicycles TM, and Utah legend Steve Spencer. Steve always does a top notch job on the RAD CANYON surface. The RAD CANYON crew also added freshly paved turns and the ABA BMX PRO's were raving about them. Some even said they were THE best turns they had ever ridden. The RAD CANYON BMX crew really stepped it up as usual and had the facility in tip top shape and ready to race. The even had water misters for the racers and families in and around the staging area for the HOT weekend. This was the eighth PRO Series event of the season and the PRO Riders were excited to head up to high altitude of Utah to see who had the legs down the last straight!
With the 2008 Olympic debut for BMX racing coming up quick, and the first USA BMX Team being chosen, (BIG CONGRATS go out to Kyle Bennett, Mikey Day, "DR" Donny Robinson, and Jill Kintner for being the first ever BMX athletes to represent USA in the 2008 Olympics!) the buzz, the hype, and the media are all around. Many of the sports top athletes were back on the scene with the Olympic Trials being over. Riders from around the world were on hand to take a shot at getting some much needed points towards the ABA BMX titles.
Saturday saw a four way tie in the AA PRO points going into the third main event. ABA National #1, Danny C, David Herman, Denzel Stein, and Barry Nobles were all locked and loaded for battle. After the gate dropped and dust settled we had ABA National #1, Danny C. on top with the win. David Herman for the 2nd, Barry Nobles for the 3rd and Denzel doing Redline proud with a 4th.
Sunday we had Barry Nobles laying down the power to take his 4th AA PRO win of the season. I said it before, and I'll say it again. Barry Nobles is the real deal. He's been making lots of fans and making a big name for himself on the ABA BMX PRO tour. Randy Stumpfhauser is always a threat to win and was able to nail down a 2nd for GT Bicycles and Denzel bettered his Saturday score by rounding off the podium for 3rd. I'm sure Redline will be pleased with Denzel's results.
With a list of riders like this,once again this past weekend shows just how deep the talent pool is on the ABA BMX PRO tour. There has been six different AA PRO winners in seven stops. That's very impressive!
On the Ladies PRO side we saw the return of Utah's own Arielle Martin. This is only fitting as Arielle practically crew up on the RAD Canyon BMX track.Arielle was fresh off her Olympic bid and she was taking names and going way FAST! Arielle's first race back was a good for the win both days Arielle's been living at the Olympic Training Center and her riding is stronger then ever. Arielle also had lots of media on hand doing interviews with her and she did a great job letting the fans know all about BMX Racing. With a few more solid rides like this, you can expect to see Arielle right in the middle of the hunt ABA BMX PRO Title and a brand new Suzuki RMZ450!
The pride of Minnesota, and ABA's current National #1 Ladies PRO is back on the scene big time. Alise Post took a little time off for her gymnastics career, but since her return she has battled for the win each week. this weekend saw Alise bring home 2nd place both Saturday and Sunday. Alise is one of the most decorated females in ABA BMX history and she continues to show the heart of a champion week in, and week out.
Arizona's own Dominique Daniels and current ABA National #1 girl and girl cruiser turned PRO Dominique Daniels scored 3rd both days in Utah. Dominique has been a podium main stay this season and with her finishes in Utah showed she has her eye on the ABA PRO title. The ladies racing has really stepped it up over the last couple of years and the new crop of younger woman I keep hearing about making the move to the PRO class is very promising for more excitement to come.
Pro Cruiser had ABA National # 1 PRO Cruiser rider Danny C. handling things. "Easy Money" took the win both days and extends his lead out even more after SLC. Redman's Pauly Lange was back on the podium with a 2nd on day #1 and a 3rd on day #2. Kenth Fallen was holding it down for the old guys. Kenth was 3rd for the day. Sunday had the Alabama Slamma' Barry Nobles in the house as well. Barry rode very well in AA PRO, but he also brought home a 2nd in PRO Cruiser on Day #2.
Vet Pro was back in action too! DaleHolmes.com had the legs and won both days. Kenth Fallen was 2nd on day #1 and Chad Street was 3rd on day #1. day #2 saw the John "The Jackal" Purse nailed down the 2nd and Jason Silva was back on the podium with a solid 3rd on day #2. The racing was fast and action pack in Utah. We can't wait to go back next season to see what other great improvements they will make.
The ABA, the city of West Jordan, UT. and the entire RAD CANYON BMX crew would like to thank all the participants, families, teams, sponsors, and BMX industry for helping make the Great Salt Lake National event such a huge success! Next stop on the ABA BMX PRO Tour, BLACK JACK Nationals in Reno - Nevada, August 29-31. We hope to see you all there!
Be sure to click on the GO211.com link below to watch all the videos from the ABA Great Salt Lake Nationals.
http://www.go211.com/u/greatsaltlakenationals08
Rider ABA BMX PRO wins after Great Salt Lake Nationals –
AA PRO
Danny "Easy Money" Caluag – Intense/BAWLS – 6
Barry Nobles – Clayborn Bikes - 4
Khalen Young - Haro Bicycles - 3
David Herman – Intense/BAWLS - 1
Kyle Bennett - Free Agent - 1
Cristian Becerine - Free Agent - 1
Woman’s PRO
"Demolition" Dominique Daniels – 7
Alise "The Beast" Post- Formula – 4
Arielle Martin - Formula - 2
Kayla Gaddis - Intense/Bizarro/JRA - 2
Stephanie Barragan – 1
PRO CRUISER
Danny "Easy Money" Caluag – Intense/BAWLS – 8
Kenth Fallen - Supercross – 2
Barry Nobles – Clayborn Bicycles - 2
Paul Lange – Redman/Rockstar – 2
Michael Kapes – J&R Bicycles -1
Tyler Brown - Supercross - 1
VET PRO
Kenth Fallen – Supercross - 9
Dale Holmes – Free Agent – 5
Chad Street – Intense/Phantom/On-Trac – 1
John Purse – GHP/Powerbar/ABA BMX - 1
2008 PRO Standing through Great Salt Lake Nationals
AA PRO 1 DANNY CALUAG 2334 WOMEN PRO 1 DOMINIQUE DANIELS 2376 A PRO 1 DEREK SIPKOI 1010 |
VET PRO 1 KENTH FALLEN 2502 PRO CRUISER 1 DANNY CALUAG 2403
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ABA BMX would like to thank all the 2008 National Series sponsors:
American Suzuki-(www.suzukicycles.com ) Jig-A-Loo-(www.jigaloo.com ) BAWLS Guarana (www.bawls.com) Bawlstyle (www.bawlstyle.com )Redline Bicycles-(www.redlinebicycles.com ) FLY Racing-(www.flyracingbmx.com ) Sponsorhouse-(www.sponsorhouse.com ) Tangent-(www.tangentproducts.com ) ABABMXRACERS- (www.ababmxracers.com) Intense BMX-(www.intensebmx.com ) T.H.E. (www.bmxthe.com) Fire Magic Premium Grills (www.rhpeterson.com/firemagic/) Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex (www.disneysports.com) GO211.com (www.go211.com)
Without their support, we couldn't make the 2008 ABA racing season such a huge success. Support the sponsors that support ABA BMX racing.