BMX race days are an exhilarating experience, but can be daunting the first time you attend (we were lost the first time we went) but we here to help!
Whether it’s your first race or you’re a seasoned pro, this guide will help you confidently navigate every step of a BMX race day. From packing the right gear to engaging with the BMX community, here’s your comprehensive roadmap.
1. Preparation Before Race Day
📝 Register Online:
- Register for the correct class via the club website or British Cycling, often required 48 hours before local events and up to a month for national ones. Check with your club/organizer for details.
- You can find a full list of British Cycling BMX events here.
🎒 Pack Essential Gear:
- Bike: Ensure brakes, chain, and tires are in good condition before turning up to the track.
- Safety Gear: Full-face helmet, gloves, jersey with long sleeves, long pants / trousers, and sturdy shoes.
- Race Plate: Securely attach your official race number, you can buy these from Moto1.
- Burm Tip: Don’t worry if it’s your first time and you don’t have a plate, you can use a paper plate with the last 3 numbers of your British Cycling membership number. If you have any issues, just speak to registration and they can help.
- If you are not registered with British Cycling the club usually has temporary plates you can borrow.
- Tools: Include allen keys, spare tubes, chain links, and a pump, most other parents and the club will have most of this if it’s your first time racing.
- Refreshments: Bring water, food, electrolyte drinks, and quick-energy snacks like bananas. Depending on the turnout, it can be a long day!
🕒 Check the Schedule:
- Review the event timetable via the British Cycling website or social media depending how the organisers have shared details of the race.
📋 Verify Race Numbers and Transponders:
- Ensure your bike’s plate and side numbers match the number you registered with! This can cause issues with races and can even get you point deductions so check before you race!
🛠️ Practice Runs:
- Use practice sessions to familiarize yourself with the track layout, take your time and learn the track, they are all different and all deserve your respect to learn them before sending it!
🧠 Mental Prep:
- For more experienced rides, visualize your race strategy, focusing on tricky corners, rollers, jumps, and gate starts.
2. Arrival at the Track
⏰ Arrive Early:
- Aim to be there 30 minutes before practice starts to set up comfortably.
🎟️ Registration and Transponders:
- Check in at the desk and verify your transponder status on Sqorz if used.
🏕️ Set Up Your Spot:
- Bring a tent, chair, and mat for your comfort between races. If you are part of a club, they usually have a gazebo set up, meet up and talk to fellow parents and riders, the community is full of new and experienced riders you can learn from and will help you make sure you are in the right place at the right time.
3. During the Event
🔥 Warm-Up Properly:
- Light cardio and stretches are crucial for peak performance. For kids, make sure they run around and do some frog jumps to get their legs moving before getting on the track!
🏁 Understand the Race Format:
- Most UK events feature three moto heats, semi finals, and finals but this depends on how many competitors attend your event. If you are unsure, check with registration and if your track is running it, check on our.sqorz.com for the most up to date information. We have a full Sqorz guide here if you are new to the app.
📢 Stay Alert for Announcements:
- Keep track of your moto calls to avoid missing your race, if you are not there, they will start without you!
💧 Hydration and Energy:
- Drink water regularly and eat light, energy-boosting snacks.
🎯 Stay Focused:
- Master the starting gate, maintain clean lines, and adapt to the track.
4. Rules and Etiquette
⏱️ Be Timely:
- Ensure you’re at the gate on time—races won’t wait.
🛡️ Follow Safety Rules:
- Wear helmets and adhere to track protocols for everyone’s safety.
🤝 Show Sportsmanship:
- Respect commissionaires, volunteers, and fellow riders.
🌟 Stay Positive:
- Treat every race as a learning experience, regardless of results.
5. After Your Races
🏆 Check Results:
- Results are often posted online at our.sqorz.com or on-site after each round.
🧊 Cool Down:
- Stretch and take slow laps to help muscle recovery.
🎒 Pack Responsibly:
- Ensure your area is clean and your gear is secured. Leave no trace.
🙏 Show Appreciation:
- Thank organizers and volunteers who made the event possible.
6. Additional Tips for a Successful Race Day
💷 Bring Extra Cash:
- Some vendors may only accept cash for food or merchandise.
🌦️ Dress for UK Weather:
- Prepare for all conditions with sunscreen, waterproofs, and layers.
🌐 Network with Riders:
- Build connections and share experiences within the BMX community, everyone is there to help you have a great day out.
📸 Capture Memories:
- Photos and videos help analyse performance and preserve memories.
🤔 Reflect and Improve:
- Analyse what went well and where you can improve for future races.
Conclusion
BMX race days in the UK are about more than just competition—they’re a celebration of skill, community, and passion. With proper preparation, a positive mindset, and a willingness to learn, you can enjoy the thrill of racing while growing as a rider and a parent. Whether chasing podium finishes or simply having fun, each race is a step forward in your BMX journey.
FAQs
1. What should I pack for a BMX race day in the UK?
Essentials include a BMX bike in good condition, a full-face helmet, gloves, a jersey, long pants, sturdy shoes, tools, and refreshments.
2. How do I register for a BMX race in the UK?
Register via British Cycling, ensuring you choose the correct class and check your name on the participant list, some clubs have their own registration, check their social pages for updates and links.
3. What is the typical format of a BMX race in the UK?
UK races usually involve three moto heats, semi-finals, and finals, depending on participant numbers.
4. How early should I arrive at a BMX race?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before practice to check in, set up, and get comfortable.
5. What should I do if my transponder isn’t working?
Visit the registration desk for assistance in troubleshooting and verifying your entry, most will have rentals you can use for a small fee.
6. How can I improve my BMX racing performance?
Focus on practice runs, mental preparation, hydration, and analyzing post-race performance. Please check our coaching guide here.
