AVON PARK –– More than 788 BMX bicycle racers along with approximately 1,500 family and friends gathered at the Highlands County YMCA BMX track in Avon Park over the weekend for state qualifiers. The two-day competition attracted the biggest field of racers so far in the 2008 State Series Qualifiers. Riders from Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, Bogota, Columbia, and Brazil came to challenge what is becoming one of the most talked about tracks in the country. It was stated that a rider from Michigan e-mailed home to tell his friends that Highlands County YMCA BMX has the potential to be ranked with national favorites. Among the 788 riders competing were 17 professional riders, three riders over the age of 50, and four riders under the age of eight. ...more

February 19, 2008

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. ...more

January 29, 2008