The chances you are given in life can make or break you, but for St. Albert BMX athlete Marquez Gonzalez, 17, his family made the choice for him.
“Our family's decision to move to Alberta was for our three children and the opportunities, and quality of life Alberta had to offer for their age,” said Marquez’s mother, Vanessa Gonzalez.
“Everyone was very worried about moving to Alberta because of the unpredictability of the unknown, but also very excited at the same time for new beginnings.”
For Marquez, the move was shocking, but his family helped him embrace the change.
“I am grateful for my family's unwavering support,” said Marquez. He sees relocating to St. Albert as the most advantageous thing that has happened in his BMX career.
With excitement came with some sacrifice for the Gonzalez family.
“We had to leave behind relationships with family, friends, and our sports families,” said Vanessa.
However, it has paid off for Marquez with results on the track.
He had a fantastic BMX season, winning a gold medal in Alberta's 2024 Provincial Cup Series in the men's 17-24 expert male division. He also captured a gold medal in the Calgary Provincial Championships in the 17-24 male division.
“It was the best feeling ever after winning both the Alberta Championships and the Provincial Cup,” said Marquez. “I pushed myself to the limit in training, and it led to me winning championships.”
Marquez’s success led to a spot on Team Canada to compete in Denmark at the 2025 BMX World Championships.
“I was ecstatic when I found out I would be representing my country,” said Marquez.
Vanessa, on the other hand, was completely unfazed by the news.
“I had no doubt Marquez was going to make a spot on Team Canada for the BMX World Championships,” she said. “This has been a goal for him, and once he sets goals, there is nothing that can get in his way. We are beyond proud of him.”
The 2025 BMX World Championships happen from July 28 to Aug. 3 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Marquez has partnered with Wildroots Bistro in St. Albert to raise money for the upcoming trip.
If you want to help support you can visit both the Wildroots Instagram page, and its Facebook page for updates on how to support Marquez.
To follow Marquez, and Team Canada at the 2025 BMX World championships, visit the website for updates starting July 28.
