The big wheels on the provincial and national BMX circuit will spin their tires this weekend in St. Albert.
A large turnout is expected for the provincial 7 and 8 and Canadian Cycling Association/Union Cycliste Internationale Canada Cup 3 and 4 series races at the BMX track at Riel Recreation Park.
The provincial 7 and 8 event is part of a nine-race series for Alberta BMX riders to earn points towards a provincial ranking. Riders must compete in at least four races, plus the final grand provincials to compile a final overall ranking based on race results.
Riders race within their age, sex and ability and are ranked in their race class. The ability levels are novice, intermediate and expert for male riders and novice and expert for females.
The age range is five to 50-plus.
“We are expecting around 400 riders for the provincial series, based on previous race turnouts this summer,” said Al Burger, president of the St. Albert BMX Association.
The Canada Cup is new national series consisting of three weekends of racing for a total of five events. The series began in Quebec in July and ends in Abbotsford, B.C. in September.
It’s open to all BMX riders across Canada with a CCA/UCI license. The riders race in certain age groups, regardless of ability. The race classes are age based, and include junior development (14-16), junior (17-18) and elite (19-plus). Males and females race separately within these categories.
Today’s race includes UCI level 5 points for international UCI licensed junior and elite riders to achieve.
“We are unsure of how many riders are coming for this race series alone, as pre-registration is open until Friday,” Burger said. “So far we know that Nick Fox, an elite male rider from New Zealand, will be racing for UCI points. Several other riders are coming from eastern Canada.”
The two race series run together this weekend. Racing starts at 11 a.m. today and 10 a.m. Sunday.
Race order is determined on race day, based on registration numbers.
A provincial pro purse is up for grabs both days and a pro purse is available today.
Riders will race on the only C3 UCI facility in North America. It’s rated flat and fast, with a supercross-style start hill. It’s also the only rideable pro section in Alberta for juniors and elites.
Last year St. Albert BMX hosted the Grand Provincials and Alberta Championships. More than 400 riders competed both days.
