Record numbers at BMX day

Rockhampton’s Sapphire Rowell was all smiles as she got ready to race around the dirt track on Sunday.

Sharyn O'Neill

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• Rocky BMX Club try day

THE wheels were in motion at the Rockhampton BMX Club over the weekend, with 50 riders hitting the track as part of the club's come-and-try day.

BMX racing is an exciting, family-based sport for all ages.

Record numbers delighted local club president Wayne Bainbridge.

"It all went very well. We had the same number of people show interest that we did last year over the two weekends," he said.

"We had about 35 kids willing to have a go on the track, with 10 others expressing their interest in racing from the stands."

Children and their parents headed to the track for a 9am start to experience the thrill of the adrenalin-filled sport.

"We had club race bikes and helmets on hand so people could jump on and have a ride," Bainbridge said.

Assisting the BMX hopefuls were 15 local club members.

"Most of them, who had been involved with the sport for a long time, helped to provide information and spend time talking with those interested," Bainbridge said.

Participants were able to ride around the track while receiving some basic coaching, participate in mini BMX races, watch some club members in action, and learn about the Olympic sport of BMX racing.

"We had a few of our number one plate riders zoom around the track to show how it was done," Bainbridge said.

"This year is another Olympic year, which I think helped spark interest for new riders."

Club member Kerry Massie played the role of media liaison officer, ensuring the sign-on day was well advertised, Bainbridge said.

"She put a lot of time and effort into getting our message out there, which helped heaps," he said.

All participants received bags filled with goodies to help start their BMX careers.

"They had a pair of hand grips, a cap, information on our club and BMX Australia and heaps more," Bainbridge said.

For those who fancy themselves as BMX riders, the club will host its second come-and-try day on Sunday.

For more information contact Rockhampton BMX Club president Wayne Bainbridge on 0418 458 575.