One of America’s largest action sports – BMX Racing, is returning to Akron BMX track this weekend, August 14-16, 2015 – and with it, will be about a thousand BMX racers and their families. The non-stop races are for both boys and girl racers, as well as moms and dads, with ages ranging from as young as 2 years old, up to 70-plus.
During the 11-month long season, the USA BMX national circuit stops in 22 different states, at 31 unique tracks and arenas – and Akron BMX is thrilled to host this major sporting event.
Akron has long been known for producing some super-fast riders – including former National No.1 Vet Pro Matt Pohlkamp. Today, the younger generation of bicycle racers continues that Ohio tradition. Among the many riders to keep an eye on this weekend would be the Hutchinson brothers – 11 year old Graydon and his younger brother Myles. Last year, Graydon earned the No.2 Gold Cup plate and he is shooting for a 11 expert win this weekend in front of the hometown crowd. Even their mom – Laura, races BMX in the 31-35 cruiser class. USA BMX racing is one of the rare sporting activities where parents get to compete along with their children.
On Saturday, competition will kick off at 11:30 with the balance bike class, for 2 & Under, 3 and 4 year olds, followed immediately by the single-A Pro class and amateur competition.
BUCKEYE NATIONAL SCHEDULE:
The USA BMX Buckeye Nationals will be held August 14 through 16, 2015, at the Akron BMX venue, located at 1000 Service Road, Akron, OH 44306.
· FRIDAY: Action begins on Friday with practice throughout the afternoon and a pre-race at 5 p.m.
· SATURDAY: Practice continues in the morning and National racing kicks off promptly at 11:30 a.m.
· SUNDAY: Competition starts at 8 a.m., with the main events starting at approx 12 noon.
USA BMX racing is full of nonstop action – and the 1,000-foot long Akron BMX track will challenge competitors of all ages. Each race can include as many as eight riders, and will send them speeding down the starting hill, maneuvering and sometimes flying over dirt obstacles, zooming around banked turns in hopes of gaining a spot on the podium. Each race will be a 30 to 35 second sprint, with full contact, close-knit racing and sometimes – thrilling crashes and victories. BMX Racing is exciting to watch for all ages – and spectating is FREE!
The economic impact of this event will bring over a million dollars to the Akron economy – thru flights, rental cars, travel, hotels and dining, and is made possible through the cooperation with the Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau.