Cromwell BMX Club (CX) youngsters are ready to rip at the BMX National Championships in the Hawke’s Bay next weekend (March 15-17).

CX has 13 athletes planning on pushing hard for places in their age group finals. 

Club president Mouse James is optimistic about the chances of those heading up to the North Island. 

“In the scale of things we’ll be a pretty small club of 13 riders in an event with over 500 of the best riders in the country. 

“But despite our size, we’ve always performed well, and with a couple of New Zealand representatives in Quinn Lindsay and Jono Hansen on the team, alongside other riders that have previously held national titles, a number of them are in with a chance.”

Mouse said the event was about having fun on bikes, hanging out with your mates and making some family memories. 

“[If] you ask the kids their favourite part from nationals in Tauranga last year, and most will say it was hanging out at the beach as a team after the racing had finished.”

Mouse said the kids have been working really hard, putting in extra training sessions and also selling raffle tickets to help fund their travels. 

“Many generous Cromwell businesses donated to an amazing prize pool and the club is so appreciative of everyone and all the support we’ve received. It is humbling just how wonderful this community is when you see the support the kids receive every year.” 

Mouse said CX has seen strong growth in numbers this season.

Riders from outside Cromwell including Wānaka and Queenstown have joined and the youngest member is three years old. 

“It is a real family sport and might be one of the only sports where children and parents can compete alongside one another.” 

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 group, 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.

Stay tuned for an update from Alexandra BMX club about their campaign and riders attending nationals in a few days time. 

Find out about local clubs on their listings: Cromwell and Alexandra.