Florida BMX: The season begins

While tracks nationwide are winding down, Florida's season is just beginning. Yesterday we attended our first SSA race in two years. What's the SSA?, a California friend asked.

Good question!

SSA is short for Sunshine State BMX Association. State racing in Florida offers the most competitive scene outside of nationals. Nothing's better for a little Grands prep. The track and competition at Riverview did not disappoint. A fairly technical track, super fast starting hill, and 113 motos made it all worthwhile. Our friends in attendance, and the great announcing (Pump pump! Pump pump!) were added bonuses.

The boys' team mate and friend Meredith Lidstone missed the race
because of work, but cut out just in time to watch mains.

After a shaky weekend at the Disney Cup, we came to Riverview seeking reassurance. Both boys needed the competition this venue offered, and they both accomplished their missions. William, loving the fast starts on the steep hill, rode away with wins in both 12 cruiser and expert. He rode with confidence and determination, and never faltered.

Wyatt, growing stronger each lap, had to go all three rounds in both 10 cruiser and expert. We watched as his third round of cruiser came and went, with no Wyatt. Immediately after, he came riding toward us, a distraught look on his little face. Somehow, even though he was standing in staging, he missed it. That was a first! We told him to shake it off and get ready for his final qualifier in 10x. He did, and he nailed it. When his main rolled around, you would have never known he had to go three rounds. He shot out of the gate like a bat out of hell, finishing a strong second.

We gladly opted out of today's race, choosing instead the comforts of home. This morning, after a good night's sleep, Wyatt shared with us his discovery.

"I've learned the secret to my success."

"Oh? What's that?" I asked.

"All I have to do is clear my mind, and then get really angry."

Whatever works!

See you in Tulsa,

BMX Mom

An Electrifying Weekend at the Derby City Nationals

"Genuis unrefined resembles a flash of lightning, but wisdom is like the sun."*

"Where ya from Billy Bob Jim?"

"Alaska. Fairbanks."

I heard the small, familiar voice from across the pits. Cool as a cucumber, he looked like a minion relaxing in a yellow Dans Comp rain slicker. His friend and team mate Carly sat next to him, as he spun a tale for her aunts.

"I'm 12, and extremely gifted. I've graduated and will be heading to college soon."

At that, I intervened. "His name", I said, "is Wyatt! He's 10, from Florida, and in the 5th grade!"

Carly, Wyatt and William smiling through the rain.

Mildly surprised that he could spin such a tale, one auntie asked, "So, he hasn't graduated?"

The first rain delay on day 2 of the Derby City Nationals clearly brought out my youngest child's creative nature.

We all breathed a sigh of relief as the sun came out and the track was uncovered.

Our sunshine didn't last long.

As semis came to a close, the sky began flashing. Mains thundered on as the skies grew darker. Vann decided to walk with William to staging for his cruiser main.

While Wyatt and I headed to the first straight to spectate, we couldn't help but overhear talk around us. No one could believe the race was continuing in the lightning. Rain is one thing, but I don't know of a sporting event that carries on in such conditions. I was pondering this when it happened. The sky suddenly cracked and my ears buzzed. Wyatt was faster than me, and ran for the tents with me on his heels. A sit rep was issued upon our arrival. Frightened faces told us it had struck just beyond the tents in front of us, splitting an unsuspecting tree.

Photo credit: Mike Carruth

One of our older Felt riders had been warming up in the parking lot when the lightning struck. He felt the surge of electricity through his hand that rested lightly on his brake lever. I heard several accounts of buzzing ears and small jolts. As far as I know, no one was seriously injured, but it wasn't over yet.

As the skies opened up, officials rushed to cover the track. Several riders, including William, were trapped under the staging tent, as the rain and lightning continued. Under the pits, it was standing room only as we huddled together in ankle deep muddy water.

A brief video of our situation, compliments of Meredith Lidstone:

At last I saw Vann and William running towards us carrying William's cruiser. He quickly tossed it in the trailer, said it was time to make a break for it, grabbed up a petrified Wyatt, and the four of us ran.

We made it to the car, soaked to the skin, but safe. At the hotel and finally dry, we were all too tired to eat.

It was then I realized that I was livid. Our safety had been compromised. Had the race been postponed when the inevitable storm approached, when the first flashes were seen, we would have been safe away before lightning began striking within yards of us. 

I combed the USABMX rulebook for anything concerning weather. This is all I found:

Once a race has begun, meaning the first gate of the first round of motos has dropped, the track operator, due to inclement weather or other extreme circumstances, may postpone that race.

That is ridiculously vague.

Here's what the National Weather Service has to say about lightning during sporting events:

The National Weather Service recommends officials of organized sports have a lightning safety plan they follow without exception. The plan should give clear, specific safety guidelines to eliminate errors in judgment.

In general, a significant lightning threat extends outward from the base of a thunderstorm cloud about 6 to 10 miles. Therefore, people should be in a safe place when a thunderstorm is 6 to 10 miles away. Also, a plan’s guidelines should account for the time it will take for everyone to get to safety. Here are some criteria that could be used to stop activities:

• If you see lightning. The ability to see lightning varies depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and obstructions such as trees, mountains, etc. In clear air, and especially at night, lightning can be seen from storms more than 10 miles away provided that obstructions don’t limit the view of the thunderstorm.
• If you hear thunder. Thunder can usually be heard for a distance of about 10 miles provided that there is no background noise. Traffic, wind, and precipitation may limit the ability to hear thunder to less than 10 miles. If you hear thunder, though, it’s a safe bet that the storm is within ten miles.

And then the kicker....

No place OUTSIDE is safe in or near a thunderstorm. Stop what you are doing and get to a safe place immediately. Small outdoor buildings including dugouts, rain shelters, sheds, etc., are NOT SAFE.

To read more, visit http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/sports.htm.

For the safety of all riders, their families, volunteers, and officials, I am urging USABMX to immediately address this issue, and implement strict safety guidelines in the event of inclement weather.

There were some things I saw and heard this weekend that prompted what I have to say next.
THANK YOU, Carlos Perez for being a team manager and leader who cares more for his riders than winning a team sheet. While we are grateful for the support of our sponsors, it's the people on our team and leading our team that mean the most.

See you all INDOORS at Disney!

BMX Mom

*- Franz Grillparzer (Austrian poet)

Governess of Grub: trying to feed hungry, young athletes

I can't wait for school to start, but not for the reasons you might think. In summertime I lose control; control over all things dietary.

The boys returned from Ohio Dreams yesterday. Florida week is so much fun for them. They're even ok with the 15 hour bus ride, which includes no less than six stops at McDonald's. Call me crazy, but knowing my kids are eating at McDonald's gives me complete anxiety. If you really have to ask why, just read 8 creepy mystery ingredients in fast food for starters. I would rather have the option of packing them a small cooler loaded with enough fruit, nuts and turkey sandwiches to get them to Ohio. Heck, I'd do it for the whole bus!

Wyatt will eat anything. William is my picky eater. It's not all his fault. He's allergic to eggs, and all shellfish-- the ultimate curse for a kid whose family hails from the Gulf Coast.

Last year at camp, William sustained himself on Ramen noodles from the camp store. I had high hopes that he would eat the allegedly improved camp food this year. Alas, no. His choice of sustenance? Oreos and Twizzlers.

Getting the boys started right today.

In three short weeks, the start of school will be upon us, and I'll once again have strict control over food consumption. Turkey and lettuce sandwiches, fresh fruit, pretzels, and a cold water, with sometimes a chocolate milk mixed in, is their typical lunch. Sure, it would be easy to let them eat the lunch the school provides, but seriously, have you smelled that stuff? I wouldn't eat it, so why would I make them?


Peanut butter has always been a huge staple in our house. With a good balance of protein, fat and carbs, it's a high energy food that helps to keep us full. Recently, our favorite BMX News correspondent shared some information that made me want to retch.

"Apparently it is approved by the FDA on average of 30 insect fragments, including rodent hair per 100 grams of peanut butter." - from 10 Disgusting Fast Food Facts

I've had the heebie jeebies, and can't help but think there's a rat in our jar of Jif, ever since I read this. When your creamy suddenly gets crunchy, what do you think you're crunching on? I've decided to go the au naturel route, and hope for the best.

It's gluten-free and GMO free, but is it rodent hair free?

Sadly, I've come to the conclusion that, unless it's grown in our backyards, we don't really know what we're consuming. We can, however, maintain a certain level of control in what we offer to our kids. I'm no expert, but I do follow certain guidelines.

• We eat home cooked meals that don't come from a box.
• I shop the perimeter of the grocery store with few exceptions.
• Our house is always stocked with a variety of fruits for snacks.
• If we have sweets, I almost always make them myself.
• Sodas are for special occasions only, not for drinking around the house, or at a race.

Our diets certainly aren't perfect, but I feel that Vann and I are doing our best to fuel our young athletes, and our best is getting better all the time!

Happy eating!

BMX Mom

To Friendly Moms Everywhere

Moms should be friendly.

My mom is very friendly.

Friendly moms are great.

-a haiku by Wyatt Parker (May 2013)

BMX moms are a different breed. We've traded our Mother's Day mimosas and freshly corsaged sundresses for energy drinks and moto boards. Mother's Day 2012 was celebrated in Powder Springs, Georgia. Standing in the mud, as the rain poured down, my friend Ellen cracked her car window. "Happy Mother's Day", she uttered quickly, and rolled the window back up. We left before the announcement was made that the race would be cancelled, not wanting to risk an injury a week before England. On Mother's Day, there was no place I'd have rather been than with my boys, even in the rain.

This Mother's Day, we'll spend at the Tarheel Nationals in Charlotte. I'll be surrounded by some of my favorite BMX moms. There will be hugs and laughter, wounds to mend, and food to fix.

Me with some of my favorite moms!

Whoever thinks Mother's Day is about spa treatments, champagne brunch and afternoon naps, is sorely mistaken. It's about the kids, and that's all there is to it. I can still recall my sister complaining to my mom on a Mother's Day more than thirty years ago. "Why do we have to have Mother's Day anyway? Why isn't there a Kid's Day?" My mom responded with a long drawn-out sigh. Everyday is Kid's Day, Wendy Ann.

Moms don't get the appreciation they deserve, but that's part of it. Just remember, we're in this together!

So, here's to you, ladies!

Here's to you, Julianne, for endlessly driving all night to get to the next race, not just your kids, but everyone else's too.

Here's to you, Ellen and Pam for being my entertainment, confidantes and pick-me-ups during a long day. 

Here's to you, Mady and Josette, mothers and caregivers to us all.

Here's to you Misty and Kristy, two lovely BMX moms who don't know each other, but who are so much alike with your inner beauty and love for animals.

Here's to you Meredith and Karen, mothers to dogs and cats, who don't need children to be nurturing.

Here's to you, Christine, who is stronger than us all.

Here's to my mom, Mignon, who without, I would be nothing.

Here's to you, Vann, for making me who I am.

A mom.

Happy Mother's Day!

BMX Mom

Oh, Brother!

More than ten years gone, I still remember the feel of the cold, smoothness on my belly in the ultrasound room. Twenty weeks along with my second child, I stared anxiously at the screen as it searched...

The probe came to a stop as the tech said with casual certainty, "It's a boy".

I sobbed.

The tech, with a look that said here we go again, summoned some empathy. "Oh, you wanted a girl?"

I looked at her, confused at first, but as realization dawned, I shook my head and smiled. My tears were of joy.

My sister and I grew up the worst of friends and the best of friends. I was her pest, and she was my idol. When William was born, I wanted him to have the same. I wanted him to have a best friend and a pest. I wanted him to have a brother.

I realize I might catch some heat for this. Of course I know brother-sister relationships can be wonderful and meaningful, but they're different, and we all seem to get what works best in our own lives.

That day in the ultrasound room, little did I know how different my two boys would be. Polar opposites, in fact. Mr. Brown-Eyed Business meets Mr. Blonde Comedian.

In the past ten years, Wyatt has led a life in a shadow of hand-me-downs and sibling achievements. He's been his brother's rock, never wavering from his side, even if he gets rolled under the bus.

This past year, however, Wyatt has blossomed. His talents shining through to the extent that a friend dubbed him "Renaissance Boy". Between tickling the ivories, exploring photography, and achieving "gold" status in swim, we wondered what would happen with BMX.

Wyatt moved up to the expert class this past February in Louisville, after achieving his 4th and 5th national wins. Any BMX parent understands the struggle that follows.

Our spring has been crazy, attending nationals in Tampa, Dallas, Atlanta and Monroe. While William has chalked up at least one win a weekend, Wyatt has faltered and missed mains, his frustration peaking in Atlanta. "I'm sick and tired of losing!" Hearing that from your child, and seeing his pain, knowing that he is at a crossroads, is quite a helpless feeling.

Fortunately, Wyatt had someone to pick him up. His best friend. His brother.

Wyatt made a decision, and William was bound and determined to help him. He would train, and train hard. It didn't matter if he had already swam 1400 meters, he would do sprints. He would train day in and day out until Monroe.

The Cajun Nationals arrived, and Wyatt made his mains in 9x both days, accomplishing more than he thought he could. The biggest surprise came too! Wyatt was invited to join his brother on Factory Felt. William has even offered to let Wyatt wear his jersey in Charlotte if his isn't ready yet.

At twilight yesterday I heard the click click click of the jump rope skipping on the driveway. William's voice boomed, "Push-ups! Go!" as Wyatt hit the ground. Later I found the work out William had made for his brother.

I thought about that day in the ultrasound room. I hope it's like this always. I hope they will always be there for each other.

BMX Mom

Magic People

If we are lucky, a person comes into our lives to guide and teach us. Not in the way of a parent, sibling or child, but someone more unexpected. Someone who's there because chance led them. If we are even luckier, we recognize that person, and know they are magic.

Aunt Kathy helping me reach a parrot,
with her daughter Jennifer, and my sister Wendy.
Parrot Jungle 1976

A good bit of my childhood summers were spent at my Papa's South Florida home. Everyday the pool water churned, full of my cousins - kids ranging in age from three to thirty-three. Rowdy as we were, it was easy for a small child to get left behind when the call rang out that it was time to dress for dinner. One particular day, after everyone had scattered to their showers, my Aunt Kathy returned to the pool, most likely to gather wet towels and empty soda cans. A shadow on the bottom caught her eye and she dove in without a thought. She dragged me up and brought me around. I don't remember this. I only have the story she told me, but surely this was when Aunt Kathy became my magic person.

During my teenaged years, Aunt Kathy, Uncle Lynn, and my cousins Jennifer and Chris would often visit my dad's house on the water in Ft. Walton Beach, where we would swim, tube and ski all day, and barbecue and play cards all night.

The Billy Bowlegs boat parade heads through Santa Rosa Sound.

It was tradition in our family to participate in the annual Billy Bowlegs boat parade, but some years there were too many of us to fit on the boat, so Aunt Kathy and I would volunteer to stay behind. As the others, decked out in pirate attire, left on the boat to join the parade, we decided to take the long swim across the Sound to watch from a sandbar. To make our swim easier, we perched a box of wine atop a yellow raft, and carried it along with us. We laughed and squealed when something slimy brushed our legs, and struggled to keep our wine afloat in the wake of passing boats. We made it to the sandbar as the first pirate ships were passing. As their cannons blasted, we talked and laughed, and drank salt water tinged white zin from the box. My mom wouldn't of approved.

During that time of my life, as a wild teen who never quite lived up to expectations, I felt judged by most adults. But not by Aunt Kathy. She made me feel like I would be ok. That I was ok.

By observing my Aunt Kathy and Uncle Lynn, I learned that marriage could be happy. They spoke to one another with love and kindness. They never screamed, and were never condescending. If hurt or angry, they forgave, because no one is perfect. This was a lesson I couldn't find in my own home, and one I needed desperately.

When I did marry, Vann grew to love Aunt Kathy too, seeing her magic as I did. When Aunt Kathy and Uncle Lynn would visit, they'd bring us plants from their garden. We'd eat crabs, grill steaks, and play cards all night.

In the midst of my young marriage,  Aunt Kathy was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. At the time, I didn't think much about it. In our late 20s, busy having babies, we had other things to think about.

Life continued much as usual. Aunt Kathy and Uncle Lynn had their own grandchildren, and began new traditions, each year taking them to the mountains in the fall, and the beach in the summer. Aunt Kathy would occasionally fall ill, but always carried on. She enjoyed her job and her zumba class, doing everything in her power to keep going and stay healthy. She didn't want to miss a thing.

Aunt Kathy on the trampoline with her grandsons and grand nephews
Easter 2005

After I lost my mom, Aunt Kathy helped fill the hole in my heart. She and Uncle Lynn were always there for Vann and me, and our boys, loving them as their own. Their love and support was endless, and several times they travelled to watch the boys race. They joined us in Louisville for NBL Grands the year William won a title, their very presence calming our nerves and bringing us joy.

Aunt Kathy and me, Louisville 2009

Cape San Blas, 2012

Last summer our families spent a wild week at the beach together, treasuring each moment of life. Aunt Kathy soaked up every laugh and every smile, with the people she loved. If she was in pain, she never once complained, as her young grandchildren climbed in her lap.

Aunt Kathy and Wyatt
Cape San Blas, 2012

Even as her body began to fail, she never wanted to give up her fight. Last week, however, it all became too much. She told her family and friends goodbye, and made my uncle promise to continue the traditions they began. Last night, her pain ended, and she is at peace. When I spoke with Uncle Lynn he said, "don't forget me, I'm still here." How could I ever?

No one ever has shown me such strength and love. As her spirit flies away, her magic remains in my heart.

BMX Mom

Training's Unexpected Silver Lining

December was a month of rest, sprinkled with holiday merriment, while the bikes collected dust in our shed. The BMX break gave me time to hover over the piano as Wyatt prepared for his big recital, and spend hours baking pecan sandies, peanut blossoms, and tea cakes that disappeared faster than I could roll out the dough.

Wyatt performs on the Rodrigue Steinway
Photo credit: Elizabeth Janke

A long time ago, I was somehow designated the one in charge of training. This sounds easy, but really it's a big commitment. Find the program, implement the program, nag the kids, train two boys who are on completely different levels... Good times! Since Wyatt has taken such an interest in swim, BMX training has whittled down to one. December 31st,  William's new regimen began, with mom at the helm.

Like any mom of a middle school aged son, I fear the day that I'm no longer cool to hang out with, and my words are no longer wise. Answers to questions become vague and repetitive...How was your day? Same as yesterday.

As our first week of training came to a close, I realized something. My son and I talked more that week than we had the entire month of December. For ninety minutes, six days a week, he's mine.

Between sprints I hear all sorts of plans: Dad said Wyatt and I can build a pump track in the yard this summer! I might hear about new bike parts: I'm doing away with the red. I'm going all silver... What do you think? He has grand ideas too: Wouldn't it be cool if I could go to school with all of my BMX friends? 

My favorite training day is when we head to Doak Campbell, home of the Florida State Seminoles. There, it's just my son and me, with the ghosts of sweat, fear and hope laying heavy in the air. As he climbs repeatedly to the top, I watch his legs tremble, and I know he's giving it all he's got.

Some mornings, I drag William out of bed early to train before school. These are the times I have to get ugly. I thought you said you could do pull-ups! What do you call those? Give me five more! That's IT! I'm DONE!

Then a tired voice says, "Wait Mom!"

I finish with the same speech every time...

Do you think I'm out here for MY benefit??

Well, maybe I am.


Happy BMX New Year!

BMX Mom

The Felt Family

"I will cherish all the friendship I was fortunate to find, all the love and all the laughter in the place I leave behind."*

I had this post composed in my head last night. It was a story of laughter and fun, of team commitments, and true friendships.

The Felt Family

There's something extraordinary about this team-- this group of people we refer to as "family". There's a bond that forms when you share emotions; the hope and love for your children, shared excitement and shared tears. Last weekend we cheered in the stands as one, wanting the best for all of our riders. We all know what it feels like when our child doesn't make the main, so we all know what to say, how to help, and when to hug. We're like a small, perfect village. What could ever go wrong?

Like any family, the Felt family has a leader, the bearer of news good and bad. It was too early for Carlos to call this morning. It wasn't right. Part of our family is gone, he said, a good friend, a Dad.

The Felt Dads

The Felt boys had a blast in Tulsa. They are brothers. The older ones look out for the younger ones. They are different, but so much the same.

Pure innocence!

They find themselves now on new ground. They don't understand this loss, but they understand their teammate, their friend, their brother, and his sister are now suffering.

"All these good things will go with me. They will make my spirit glow. And that light will shine forever in the next place that I go."*

Our hearts go out to the Hatems.

BMX Mom



*From "The Next Place", by Warren Hanson

Heading to Grands Calm, Cool and Collected

You need to grab a hold of that line between speed and chaos, and you need to wrestle it to the ground like a demon cobra! And then, when the fear rises up in your belly, you use it. And you know that fear is powerful, because it has been there for billions of years. And it is good.*

It started last night. The sleeplessness. For most nationals I'm only afflicted with insomnia once we actually arrive at the hotel. Then come the common exchanges between BMX moms: Did you bring your Benadryl? Your Tylenol PM? Ask for a room away from the ice machine...Did you hear those people in the hall at 2am? I went out in my pjs and told them to scram... And,  most recently from my friend and fellow Felt mom Ellen, "Should we make spa appointments?" Absolutely!

I want all of their dreams to come true. What mom wouldn't?

November 22-25 is GRANDS. This is what the boys work for all year. It was yesterday while watching William do his sprints that the nerves kicked in. It seems that I need to start my earplug/sleep mask/ Benadryl regimen a bit early.

William trains in our carport in the
predawn hour while I sip my coffee.

So why do I get so nervous? I'm not racing for Pete's sake! I don't like ME when I'm nervous either. I'm snappy and irritable. (I know. Hard to believe, right?) If I'm so ridiculously nervous, how must my boys feel?

As William heaved on his backpack on the way out the door this morning he said suddenly, "Man, I can't wait for Grands!" But then, if he could, we probably wouldn't be going. Is he nervous? Oh I'd be surprised if he isn't, and that's ok.

Swimming 4 days a week has definitely
increased Wyatt's speed on the bike!

I'm not sure Wyatt ever gets nervous, but this Grands could possibly be his final adieu to the 9 intermediate class. With his inevitable move to expert growing closer, Wyatt has dedicated himself to getting stronger and faster. He seldom trains with his brother, choosing instead to spend several hours a week in the pool swimming for ATAC.

These boys couldn't be more ready. They've done everything they can do to prepare. It's time to go to Tulsa!

While everyone fills their grocery carts with turkey and cranberry sauce, I fill ours with bottled water, Gatorade Primes and energy bars. Thanksgiving will be different this year, but we will still be with family-- our Felt family! I'm looking forward to all the laughter we share as we cheer on our riders. GO FELT!

On Saturday, I get a special treat! One of my dearest childhood friends, who I haven't seen in at least 15 years, is driving over from Norman, OK with her son to watch the race. I couldn't be more excited to hug her neck and laugh about old times.

Goodness! I feel better already. Safe travels and good luck to all the riders!

BMX Mom



*Susan to Ricky Bobby in "Talladega Nights".

Butter

"I got that nickname when I first turned pro," said Bennett. "A couple older guys gave it to me, saying I was smooth, like butter, on my bike. I think it's a good nickname. It's stuck with me."*

Our BMX family heard the tragic news early this morning, before the local media in Montgomery County Texas reported it. In their early report, there was no mention that Kyle Bennett was on the first ever U.S. Olympic BMX team; a legend paving the way for the future of the sport. Once realized though, tributes were planned, and a more in-depth story was written.

When we heard, we couldn't believe it. We were hoping it was a mistake. But no, Kyle Bennett died in an early morning car crash, leaving his fiancee and young daughter. 

My heart broke for them. They were suddenly living a nightmare, hoping to wake up, only to discover that what happened was real. 

Kyle Bennett was raised in Conroe, TX, by his grandparents. His grandfather "Pepa" first took his grandson to a BMX track when he was 7. He built Armadillo BMX, which is now known as "Kyle Bennett Armadillo BMX Park". The former Olympian hosted a clinic there just last Wednesday.

"I'm real proud of him," said Collins as he sits with Bennett outside his house. "He's my beloved grandson. When he first started, I'd say to him, 'Just don't give up.' If he lost, I'd say, 'Don't worry. You've got another one coming up.' "*

Today we watched Felix Baumgartner make his leap from the edge of space. Oddly, I found myself thinking of Kyle Bennett and his family as the live feed showed Baumgartner's mother - sometimes watching intently, and sometimes burying her face in her hands - as her son spiraled towards earth. While it was a nerve wracking 6 minutes for us, I can't begin to contemplate what it felt like for her.

Baumgartner made it though, landing smooth as butter, for his family to embrace him once more.

Please help Kyle's family by visiting http://www.kbarmadillobmx.com/KB_Armadillo_BMX/Kyle_Bennett_Memorial.html to donate to the Kyle Bennett Memorial Fund.

Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Kyle Bennett. 

BMX Mom

*http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/beijing/cycling/2008-07-28-bmx-bennett_N.htm

Branded: Turning Sacrifice into Profit

Non-BMXers often ask us, how do you do it? One word: SACRIFICE. All BMX parents understand this. If there's a race coming up, and someone growth spurted and outgrew the $150 clips that you bought last month, you quickly get a new pair. If your child has worked hard all season and is sitting at #11 in N.A.G. points in late summer, you put another national on the schedule. All vacations revolve around racing. This isn't something we complain about. It's just a fact of life.

There are some parents, however, who have turned this crazy lifestyle into a profitable affair.

Beach BMX Designs

Bike chain and leather bracelet by Beach BMX Designs
A great way to say "thank you!" to that special BMX mom!

Vann noticed them first, a year or two ago at a national. "Look! Bracelets made from old bike chains. What a great idea!" While I have yet to make a purchase from Beach BMX Designs, I often nose around their display of artistically recycled BMX parts. With a houseful of boys racing BMX, jewelry designer Maribeth says,  "I created Beach BMX to provide us a way to continue our love of the sport and pursue my passion for recycling and repurposing materials!" Personally, I'm all about creatively recycling and repurposing, while getting back some of those race expenses. What a great idea! Maribeth gives back too...With the purchase of anything PINK, she'll make a donation to the Pink Ribbon Foundation and with the purchase of anything YELLOW, she'll donate to the Lance Armstrong Foundation! Check out Beach BMX Designs at www.beachbmx.com.

Wyatt is sporting his new KDM belt
that we picked up in Louisville.
A tee and hoody are in his near future.

Kid DynaMite Apparel Co.

Launched in May 2012, Kid DynaMite took off with a blast. Catering to the action sports family, "KDM's mission is to provide Today's Youth with some Real Options in clothing while providing the best Quality products to fit their everyday Intense Lifestyle." KDM's founder, Eric Bess has been heavily involved in BMX racing and freestyle throughout his life. He's also a well-known bass guitarist! How cool is that? I have no doubt that KDM, with their vibrant colors and bold designs, will be filling the closets of action sports aficionados everywhere.

Order a tee, and check out the sponsorship opportunities at www.kid-dynamite.com. Look for the release of their new line of hoodies in October!

Find this and more at pinchgear.com!

Pinch Gear
"Maliek Byndloss' mom gave me a tank top to give to you. I stuck it in your bag." Huh?

While in Louisville, William and a friend were visiting in the SSquared pits. Stacy Byndloss struck up a conversation with William, and gave him the tank-- for me! When I had a chance to investigate, I discovered a heavy-weight, high quality, slim fit white tank with "Pinch Gear.com" printed on the front. Admittedly, I had never heard of Pinch Gear, and my first thought was bike parts! Curiosity won, and soon I was googling "pinch gear". I struck gold!

What I found was a website full of shiny accessories, from sunglasses and handbags, to jewelry. "With style that stuns and attitude that stops traffic, these fashions don’t just make a statement. They make an entrance." Wow!

While these beautiful things aren't BMX related, Stacy Byndloss can still use her BMX connections to promote her business, and support her son's dreams.

Thank you, Stacy Byndloss, for the tank!

I believe that BMX families need to support one another, and our young athletes. Next time you're looking for an artfully designed BMX bracelet, a rockin' new tee, or just something to make you feel beautiful, keep it in the BMX family.

BMX Mom

Heading to South Park? Say Hello to Andy and Frank

I turned off my Kindle on a flight home from Houston on Sunday to avoid scrambled airwaves and mortal peril. With light quickly fading as we waited on the jetway, I thumbed through the Sky magazine. The word Pittsburgh caught my eye, forcing me to disrupt my sleeping neighbor and turn on the overhead. For twenty pages I read of Pittsburgh's success in avoiding recession, and their boast of a "healthy higher education sector" fostering their "knowledge based economy".

Still, what's there to see?

My jaw dropped when I saw it. I can't believe I didn't know!  I swear I wiped away drool upon discovering that there in Steel City is the largest museum in the country devoted to a single artist -- Andy Warhol.

Andy Warhol by Annie Leibowitz, 1976

He's not my favorite, but he's home-grown, wildly pop, and his art will influence others for years-- no--- forever.

I immediately checked museum hours (open Friday until 10pm with half price admission after 5!), and  distance from the track (a mere 13 miles). My mind was made up.

As if this weren't exciting enough, an hour outside of town, tiered above a rocky hillside is Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater. Wright's Prairie Style, which ended abruptly after a tragic incident involving his cook, his mistress, and an axe, made him famous, but Fallingwater (1935) was his crown jewel. Wright achieved something wholly American; a structure communing with a Pennsylvania waterfall, and existing as one.

Regrettably, we won't have time to visit Fallingwater. We're going to race after all!  However, we will be visiting Andy Warhol Friday night. Won't you join us?

Andy Warhol (American, 1928-1987)
Moonwalk, 1987
screen print on Lenox Museum Board
38 x 38 in. (96.5 x 96.5 cm.)
The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh; Founding Collection,
Contribution The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

© The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

Safe travels to everyone headed to Pittsburgh. See you there!

BMX Mom

Olympic Dreams

I was once a future Olympian. Weren't we all?

When I was seven, my dream was to become an Olympic swimmer. I swam laps relentlessly, burning off excess childhood energy that, if bottled, would be the finest wine to me now. I've recently been informed that I was a terror; a spoiled child who played my divorced parents like a fiddle. The only person who had patience for me was my older cousin Craig. He indulged me for hours with his stop watch as I swam on and on in our Papa's Palm Beach pool, confident that my Wonder Woman bathing suit was shaving off time. Did Craig maybe believe in me? Did he think I could be an Olympic swimmer? No one ever said, and my dream slowly died, as I outgrew my chlorine faded Wonder Woman suit.

Beginning last Friday, tracks all over the country celebrated the upcoming 2012 Olympics by offering Olympic Day. Racing was free for all, along with complimentary one-day USA BMX memberships for new riders. On Saturday, our family participated with our friends at Circle City BMX in Dothan. There was a good crowd and energy in the air. To add to the nostalgia the Olympics invariably invoke, the "Chicken Dance" blared, sending the kids onto the track to shake their tail feathers before taking their bikes into staging.

William Parker, Wyatt Parker and Britt Dooley had a blast racing together
in both 20" and cruiser, at Olympic Day at Circle City BMX

I asked a couple of fellow BMX families how they felt about the Olympics:

"Britt never thought much about the Olympics until he started racing BMX 3 years ago. Because he participates in BMX and it's an Olympic Sport he's actually followed it more this year than in the past and not just the BMX stuff. He's become fascinated with the process that one has to go through to qualify for the Olympics. And how hard it is to get there. He has the lofty goal of getting there someday and representing the US. Watching Barry (Nobles)  barely miss out making it opened his eyes to just how hard it really is. He looks up to Barry, Connor (Fields), Mike Day and the rest.

In Britt's perspective, the Olympics has gone from being an after thought to something he has begun to appreciate. It's now a goal of his one day to stand on that podium and hear the National Anthem played.

Big dreams, little guy doesn't understand just how hard it is to get there."

- Payton Dooley, dad of Britt Dooley (11int)

"The Olympic games are a way for a person or a team to represent their country by competing against the best athletes from other countries in the sport they love, in the biggest race in the world. There is such excitement about supporting USA because of the freedom we have that makes living in the USA so great. This year it's even more exciting and meaningful because the sport Warren loves most, BMX racing, is in the Olympics. The fact that Barry (Nobles) was competing to go made it even more meaningful. Although Barry didn't make the cut, Warren's looking forward to watching and cheering on team USA. Warren hopes to have the chance to go to the Olympics one day & race BMX for team USA."

- Shannon Lee, Mom of Warren Lee (10x), Thorsby, Alabama

Warren Lee (center) earned gold medals in 10x and 10c
participating in the Olympic Day race at Weaver BMX (Alabama).
Warren hopes to race in the Olympics one day.

Will there be two Olympics for Connor Fields?

Ever since our time in England for BMX World Championships, the Olympics have been a hot topic in our home. We know the young men and women who earned their positions on Team USA will represent their country well. I asked William his predictions for 2016. It didn't take him long to make his list. "I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings". He hesitated. "This could change."

William's picks for Team USA in 2016:

• Felicia Stancil
• Dani George
• Cole Tesar
• Maliek Byndloss
• Collin Hudson
• or maybe Connor Fields again

I made the point to William that for the 2020 Olympics he'll be nineteen. "I suppose I have a shot in 2020 and 2024", he contemplated. "I'm going to go ahead and go in 2020. Then I can finish my education and start my career. I don't want to be stuck with nothing to do after the Olympics." 

He said it as matter-of-fact-ly as if he had told me he was going to brush his teeth and go to bed.

Congratulations Olympians! Never stop dreaming!

BMX Mom

England Swings Part Deux: Life is like a box of chocolates

"My momma always said, 'Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.'"


During the World Championships, Vann met William between each qualifying round, talking through a fence that kept the riders quarantined. "Is he eating?" "Did you tell him to go to the bathroom?" "How are his nerves?" Vann nodded his head emphatically at each of my overbearing questions.


As it was, William remained cool as a cucumber throughout, which I can only attribute to the confidence that comes from 6 months of intense preparation. I, on the other hand, was nothing short of a basket case. Completely out of character, I'm ashamed to say I lost my marbles on one of the two ticket-takers at the NIA. I won't go into details, but the poor guy didn't deserve my wrath. He'll never see it, but I offer my public apology just the same.

Remember to breathe was the best advice I received, from a BMX mom who'd been there before. (Thanks Josette!) As motos went on, our group began to relax and have a good time. Our USA pits were directly behind the Japanese, who, without a lick of English, cheered enthusiastically each time the announcer uttered "Germany". The Germans didn't have a big crew there, so I'm sure they appreciated it.


We knew it would have to be more than skill to carry William through eighths, quarters and semis. Strong riders were falling out left and right. As William crossed the line in a qualifying position in his semi, I finally felt at ease. He would have a world plate!

Partly due to fate, and mostly because William always cranks to the line, William was able to choose an inside gate for the main. When he came out of the gate, no one could argue that he deserved to be there. He quickly fell into a third place position entering the first turn. Attempting to move into second, his pedal struck the ground, jamming his knee, and moving him into the fourth spot. He was lucky to hold on, but was unable to gain back a medal position, and finished fourth. We were unbelievably proud and excited!


After awards, photos and hugs, when "Let's party all night!" turned into "Let's grab a quick bite at the hotel and go to bed", we finally had an opportunity to discuss the race with William. 

"WELL?" I said. That was all he needed. His tired, but happy face turned to us as he began his tale. Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get. He said his favorite line from "Forrest Gump", and I wondered. Did he not think he would do so well? Did he expect more?

He told us of the friends he made, and we laughed as he described how he communicated with his new Japanese friend (3rd place finisher Yuichi Masuda) through head shakes and sign language. The kids from Great Britain were shocked to learn that policeman in the U.S. carry guns, and William proudly described to them his own personal arsenal, which really had them in awe. Surprisingly, they asked about one another's governments, and compared the differences. We learned too, that we're not just the spawn of England or France, but our own unique culture-- wild, crazy Americans!


When he finished, I understood what William meant. Take advantage of what's in front of you. Live life now. You never know what you're gonna get.


Watch this awesome Video of Factory Felt riders at Worlds by Phillip Habib

The very next day, William turned eleven. We celebrated with our friends the Habibs, in proper Medieval fashion. It's not everyday an 11-yr-old boy gets to visit a castle, chop off his brother's head, and see a Shakespeare play on his birthday. It was a great time with great friends!


Sunday morning we made our leave, sad to miss our friends racing cruiser, but happy to be on our way. We headed to Paris on a 24-hour lay over. Not wanting to waste one minute, we hit the cobblestones running. Notre Dame was crowded, but amazing just the same. We had dinner with my cousin Jill and her family, while the boys played soccer with their Parisian cousin Jude in the gardens of the Louvre.


By 10 pm we were all worn out, and contemplating the long flight ahead, when Wyatt pulled the Puss in Boots face. "Oh pleez can we go to the Eiffel Tower?"

With rubber legs and tired faces, we rode to the top at midnight. Too tired to walk to the hotel, Vann hailed a cab. Wyatt was asleep within the minute.

Go to England. Ride your race. Skip and hold hands. See a Shakespeare play. Be crazy. See the Eiffel Tower at midnight. Go to New Zealand.


Live.


Because...

"My momma always said, 'life was like a box of chocolates.

You never know what you're gonna get.'"

Many thanks for all the love, support, well-wishes, and congratulations sent out to William. Your presence was felt!

BMX Mom