• The sport of bicycle motocross began in the early 1970's in southern California. A handful of riders started riding their stringray type of bikes off road in vacant lots and fields. Today the sport of bicycle motocross is sweeping the country and the world. There are over a 150,000 riders of all ages in organized races at permanent tracks across America. BMX racing is a clean, exciting, fun that whole families can get involved in whether as a racer, spectator, pit crew or track volunteer. BMX has something to offer everyone. Races are organized according to age group and skill levels, so everyone gets the opportunity to compete on a fair and competitive basis. Even beginning riders have the chance to race safely with other new riders. All riders compete for awards and ABA points. The ABA points system determines a rider's annual ranking within that riders' district. Points are published in the BMXer magazine which each rider receives monthly. There a rider can check and compare his or her point standings with other riders in their own district and across the country.

• Race are organized into separate girls and boys classes then subdivided into age groups and skill levels. The age group ranges from 5 and under to 51 and over classes. Within these age groups are three skill levels: Novice, Intermediate, and Expert. All riders start as novice and work up to the more advanced levels by winning races.

• BMX racing does not require a lot of expensive equipment. Most racers start with their 20" street bike by removing the chain guard and kickstand and putting some inexpensive padding on the frame, handle bar and stem.

• First, a helmet is required, and the ABA recommends one with face protection. You will also need to wear a long sleeve shirt, long pants, enclosed shoes and a number plate for your bike.

• A one year ABA membership is $45, which includes the ability to rider at any ABA track and a 12 month subscription to the ABA BMXer magazine.

• Once you have all the equipment, one of the first things you'll want to do when you arrive at the Crow River BMX track is head towards the registration window. Our local track operator will help you with any questions you may have to get you signed up to race. As a first time racer you'll need to acquire an ABA membership which track personnel will help you with. Once the paperwork is taken care of it's time to hit the track. Take your time and get used to the track at your own speed. Memorize what obstacles are on the track and experiment on how to take them the fastest and the smoothest. Watching the older experienced riders is one of the best ways of learning how to improve your racing techniques.

• Right before the race begins the track operator will post motos. Moto sheets show you which race everyone is in and who they will race against. The sheets will also inform you of what "lane" you will have on the starting gate. When looking at the "Moto Sheets", find your name and make sure you are entered in the right age group and classification. Also, locate what "Moto Number" you are in and memorize it (it helps to write your moto number on your hand so you don't forget it). Ready to race? Be sure you get to the staging area ahead of time so you don't miss your first race. Staging is located behind the starting gate and we will have someone calling out motos in numerical order. When the stager calls your moto number (your race), go up to the starting gate with the other riders in your race and when it's time to get on the gate, hop in the starting lane assigned to you. The moment of truth is here. You are propped up in the starting gate with up to SEVEN riders of your same age and skill level. You are ready for your first ever BMX race. The gate is about to fall and from here: it's all up to you. Good Luck and have FUN!!

1. Make sure all bolts are tight - especially your axle bolts and stem bolts.

2. All reflectors must be removed for safety purposes.

3. If your bike has a kickstand, it must be taken off.

4. Verify that you have all your padding attached: a) covering the crossbar of your handlebars, b) covering the handlebar stem (or gooseneck), and c) on the top tube of your frame.

5. You'll also need a number plate. Check with registration to see if we have any spares.

6. Long sleeve shirt and pants

7. A helmet

8. Any tennis shoe is sufficient