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Local
Feature
REEDLEY
AIR TIME BMX
words
by Jackie Dale
Image
by Frankie Leal
The
riders are lining up, an automated voice calls
out, “riders, watch the gate” and
with a loud clang the steel gate drops and the
riders burst out onto the track like a shot out
of a cannon. Feet pedaling furiously, they hit
the first hill and become air-born. The second
and third hills bring more air-time before hitting
the first bank turn. These more experienced riders,
including long-time rider Josh Taylor and local
professional Randy Stumpfauser, navigate the course
quickly and a group of novices move up to take
their turn on the track. When the Traffic photographer
shows up, I encourage the riders to show their
best “moves” and they willingly comply
with some gravity-defying stunts!
Whether
you’re a pro or a beginner, everyone receives
an equal opportunity to practice and race on the
track. There is no pressure or stress. Everyone
is friendly and helpful and unfailingly patient
when waiting for their turn. BMX riding just might
be the perfect fit for those kids who are just
not cut out for the team sports scene. You can
compete if you choose or you can just ride for
yourself.
Reedley
Air Time BMX is a non-profit organization that
is sanctioned by the National Bicycle League.
(NBL) The NBL is actually a worldwide organization
that promotes bicycle motocross racing as a competitive
sport. Air Time BMX is operated by the husband
and wife team of Paul and Donna Huebert. For the
last 12 years Paul and Donna have volunteered
their time to ensure that BMX enthusiasts in this
area have a place to practice and race. Racing
is definitely a family affair as all three of
the Huebert’s children have raced, and Paul
continues to do so, although he is currently nursing
an injury.
I
convinced my 10 year old daughter, Dominique,
to give it a try, and we headed to the track.
Since she doesn’t have a bike she was given
one of the free loaner bikes and helmets that
are available to all. Paul asked one of the boys
to take her around the track the first time which
he seemed happy to do. She was wobbly and nervous
at first, but she grew more confident and improved
with each lap. She learned to watch the more experienced
riders and try to emulate some of their techniques.
After
watching her for awhile, I decided to give it
a try myself. Donna helped me choose a bike, handed
me a helmet and I ventured out to the starting
area praying feverishly that I would not “eat
dirt”. I opted to skip the gate and rode
out onto the track via what I only guess is the
beginner entrance. You have to pedal really fast
to make it over the hills. It was a blast! Like
my daughter, I grew more confident with each lap
and by the end of the session we were hooked.
There are no age barriers in this sport. Racing
categories start at 5 and under and there is no
upper age limit. Riders who want to go on to the
racing circuit only need to race 6 times (minimum)
to go to the state level for ranking. Once ranked
on the state level, racers can then advance (through
point accumulation), to regional, national and
finally, the world championships.
Paul Huebert placed 3rd overall in last years
2007 Nationals held annually in Kentucky. He was
joined in Kentucky by local riders Stevie Grote
and Austin Garza. All three won in their individual
categories. In 2001 Paul also ranked 2nd overall
at the world competition. This summer, for the
first time ever, BMX racing will be included as
an event at the summer Olympics in China.
The
Air Time BMX track is located on American Avenue,
right across the street from Great Western School,
next to the Reedley Airport. Practices are held
every Tuesday evening from 6-8 p.m. Races are
held on Saturdays from 6-8pm if enough riders
show up. If there are no races then regular practices
are held. First time riders get to try it once
for free. If they want to continue riding they
must join the NBL which costs $45 for the year.
You can try a 30 day membership for $30 and if
you then decide to join for the year, you pay
the additional $15. Thereafter, practice fees
are only $5 and race day fees are $10.
So get those kids off the couch (yes, the girls
too) and head over to the track. Interestingly,
Paul disclosed to me that girls are often more
coordinated at riding than the boys! There is
one tiny little girl in her pink gear that comes
out to the track often. She really gives it her
all.
You
don’t even have to go fast to ride. You
can just cruise the course and get some great
exercise. It is a great family sport that is not
only affordable but also a fantastic way to get
some physical activity. Spectators are encouraged
too. So if you want, just come out and watch.
There are bleachers, a nice green lawn and plenty
of shade. Come and take a little look see. Watching
is free and quite entertaining.
Those
who choose to participate must wear full face
helmets, long pants, long sleeve shirts and closed
toe shoes. Gloves are advisable. Contact Paul
or Donna for more information or any questions
you may have. They can be reached at 638-2057
or 859-0949.
As this article goes to print, my daughter and
I have been out to the track every Tuesday and
Saturday since the first time we went. We would
love to see you out there too! Give it a try and
you might be surprised at just how much fun it
really is. Remember, it’s free to give it
a try. You can borrow a bike and a helmet. What’s
stopping you? If you can pedal a bike, you’re
in!
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