Blistering pedalling, jumps and tight racing is ahead as 300 BMX riders converge on Alexandra this weekend for the BMX New Zealand South Island Titles (Souths).

Riders from throughout New Zealand will be taking part, most of those competing are from within the South Island however some have travelled from as far as Hamilton, Auckland and New Plymouth to race.

All ages will ride in the Souths from the littlest under fives, known as the Sprockets, to people in the 55-59 year old category on larger 24 inch bikes. 

Alexandra BMX club spokesperson Lena Sutherland said the event was awarded to the club a few years ago but a lot of planning and organising had occurred behind the scenes to pull everything together.

“The ground work has really happened over the last year by the committee, Souths planning sub-committee, and track team. [It’s meant] many hours of work with meetings most months, countless emails and phone calls, and lots of manual labour at the track.”

Both Alexandra and Cromwell have close to 30 riders each competing in the motos (races) on Saturday and Sunday. Competitors will have a chance to practice on the track on Friday afternoon.

Alexandra riders at the start gates on a recent club night. PHOTO: Supplied 

The action kicks off at 10.20am on Saturday with the opening ceremony, and then the four motos begin at 11am, Sunday’s racing starts at 10am, and then semi finals and finals. 

Lena said the event was family friendly and the club would love support from the community. 

“Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy some racing, please no dogs. We have food vendors on site to keep you fed and hydrated during the day.”

Alexandra has hosted Souths several times before, most recently in 2020. 

The event is coming to Cromwell in 2027. 

The new pump track adjacent to the BMX track has recently opened and with the indoor and outdoor pool close by and the green space of Molyneux Park there is plenty to enjoy close by.

View the Souths event programme here

Find out about Central’s clubs on their listings: Cromwell and Alexandra

Read more: Have a go days for BMX as season nears

Read more: Cromwell girl wins BMX Nationals

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