Travelling north to the Hawke’s Bay for BMX Nationals is a family affair for Alexandra BMX (ALX) Club with five local families looking forward to a weekend of speed, action and fun.

A spokesperson for the club Lena Sutherland said riders would go hard, have lots of fun and make the club proud. 

“Nationals bring another level of excitement and nerves to a race meet, this is felt by our riders big and small, as well as their parents and supporters.

“Being able to take part in the atmosphere, knowing there is a 'live stream' of their racing, and seeing familiar, as well as new, faces along the gates adds to the hype. Our riders put a lot of time and energy into getting themselves ready for nationals, we want them to have fun and be proud of themselves.”

ALX has a small group of seven riders at nationals this year, with one sprocket, three in Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 9, one in UCI 10, one in UCI 12 and one in the female elite category.

Alexandra BMX riders pushing hard at club night on March 7. PHOTO: Supplied 

Lena said despite Hawkes’ Bay being a new track for the club’s competitors, they would be making the most of the practice session and there was local talent to watch.

“Holly [Oldham] in the women’s under 23 elite will definitely be one to watch with her success in the 2023 pump track nationals.

“Hendrix Kahukura should also create some excitement having recently brought home the number three plate in the UCI 9 boys group from the Oceania titles in Australia.”

Lena thanked ALX’s dedicated volunteer coaches, the club’s senior riders, and elite rider Callum Holloway for helping with training for those heading to nationals.

Nationals will see the best riders from New Zealand along with expat riders travelling from Australia aiming for New Zealand ranking plates for each of the age groups, from the eight-year-olds to seniors (60+).

Friday, March 15 is a practice day at the Havelock North Hawkes’ Bay BMX Club, Saturday will feature four races or motos as they are known in BMX, followed by another two on the Sunday morning.

The results of those six motos determine who qualifies for quarter, semi and finals. 

Residents can watch the livestream of the BMXNZ National Championships on the BMX New Zealand YouTube channel.

Find live timing results here.

Read more: Cromwell BMX riders ready for national championships