BMX Qualifier Comes To Highlands County

AVON PARK -- This summer BMX (Bicycle Motocross) will make its Olympic debut in Beijing, China.

Our kids will be able to watch some of America's elite BMX riders carry "Old Glory" across the globe to compete in one of the fastest growing sports today.

Hundreds of BMX families, riders and state officials will travel to Avon Park on Feb. 16-17 to compete in the second of 10 qualifiers offered in Florida for the 2008 Florida State Series Championship.

This is a great opportunity to see first-hand what BMX is about. Riders range from 3-years-old to over 50.

Each rider competes in their age class and riding proficiency which includes Rookie, Novice, Expert, Cruiser, and Pro.

In addition, the professional riders will be here to compete.

There is no admission and parking is free.

In the world of Florida BMX the talk among riders all over the state is "Have you ridden Highlands BMX?".

Having traveled and raced at other facilities around the state including Middleburg BMX, Charlotte BMX, St. Pete BMX, and Daytona BMX, I have found that our local riders have a big advantage.

Our track is longer and faster.

Our starting gate alone can intimidate, and track records show riders who train here race strong at other tracks around the state.

Not only is the track fun to compete on, but the facility has the potential to be one of the most spectator friendly atmospheres around.

Very few if any tracks in Florida have the space and the view of the track that Highlands presents.

Track President Michael Sturgile and Track Director Jeremy Machia, along with a staff of dedicated
volunteers are working night and day to get our local track ready to host such a big event.

They are also looking toward the future to design a world class training facility in our own back yard. Riders and volunteers alike are looking for your help. If you would like more information on how you or your business can help please contact us at www.highlandsbmx.org or call Jeremy or Julie at 382-9657.

Our local talent includes: (Rookies) Clinton Patrick, Tim Koning, Marcus Williams, Gus Mena, Justin Stewart, Wesley Koning, Cale Gilliain, Frank Mena, Steven Harrison, Jared Keefe, Brandon Griffith, Jahna Leighton, Caitlyn Wood, Jeffery Weeks, Hunter Livingston, Rebecca McKenzie, Stephen Sinclair, Heather Smith (Novice) Carl Rivera, Charlie Jones, (Expert) Michael McIver, Jordan Shane, (Cruiser) Randall Wilkins, Mark Jones, Bob Alexander.

There is a free one-time rider trial.

Come out and meet the friendly locals and see for yourself what Highlands BMX has to offer you and your family.

Practice on Thursdays is from 6-to 8 p.m. and cost is $3.

Practice on Saturdays is from 6-to 7:30 p.m. and racing action starts at 8 p.m. and the cost is $7.