GETTING STARTED

GETTING STARTED!!
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The sport of bicycle motocross began in the early 1970's in Southern California. A handful of riders started riding their stingray type bikes off road in vacant lots and fields. Not much competition but a lot of fun. Today the sport of bicycle motocross is sweeping the country and the world. There are over 150,000 riders of all ages racing in organized races at permanent tracks across America. BMX racing is 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 rider's 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 .

WHO CAN RACE?
Races are organized into separate girls and boys classes then subdivided into age groups and skill levels. The age groups range 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 novices and work up to the more advanced levels by winning races

WHAT KIND OF EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
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.

WHAT OTHER EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
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 and enclosed shoes.

WHERE CAN I RACE?
Tornado Alley BMX is located in Amarillo,TX

HOW CAN I GET STARTED?
Simply visit our track during the practice or racing times and ask for a membership application or information. You can watch the races, talk to other BMX families, or give it a try yourself.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO RACE?
The ABA offers a one time only, 1 day free trial membership or 30-day trial membership for $25.00. This entitles you to race at your local track and provides you with medical insurance coverage. A one year membership costs $45.00 and allows you to race on ABA tracks nationwide. With the full membership you will also receive the BMXer, the monthly magazine with current point standings and nationwide race coverage. Once you have become an ABA member, the only other cost will be the race day entry fee. Practice day $5, Race day $12. The entry fee entitles you to be a participant in the day's action. A typical BMX race includes 3 qualifying motos along with a main event. In the main event, you race for awards, determined by your finish, along with the precious ABA points.