Marco AKA "Zellwood" has been on the race scene for 25 years this year and decided to take a break from working for Zoo York and headed to Australia to ride, race and travel before the Worlds. A good friend of Stephen Murray that has done his best to keep his name out there and promote Stay Strong (Stephen's foundation) since his accident 2 years ago. Marco is staying with me for a few weeks before Adelaide so I thought I'd get the latest on what he's been up to and what's next for Big Z or 1A as we now call him ha!
You've been living in Australia for 5 months. How was that?
It was cool, started off as a travelling trip with my bike as I wanted to see the country, do the tourist stuff and just ride tracks on the way to the Worlds. I quit work to travel for a year and I'd never been to Oz so thought I'd do 6 months as the Worlds were there..But I decided to take it a bit more seriously when I ran into Sean Dwight at the ACT titles and he convinced me to get on the right track! So since then it got a bit more structured and my plans changed and I got more focussed!
What was it like to win the Australia National Championships in Masters?
Of course I was happy but it was a bit surreal to actually win it. I wasn't sure what to expect as I didn't know everyone other than guys like Sprague, Harvey, Kamahl, Lim etc. and they didn't really know me, Sean had said I had a chance of winning if I rode smooth laps and I started believing it after practice and it worked out so it was cool!
I may have to got to Victoria next year and defend the 1A ha!
You've been training with Sean Dwight down under. Did you learn a lot from Sean?
Sean is very knowledgable and proboably one of the most passionate guys in bmx. He's really technical in his outlook on training and the way he looks at stuff definately makes sense. It was a great experience staying with him and doing a bit with his crew. I've definately seen improvements in the time I've been on his programme and still on it on the build up to the Worlds. Sean's definately a great coach and his coaching track record of Elite titles speaks for itself.
What's your expectation for the Worlds?
Gonna take each lap at a time and not think to far ahead. Top 4 every lap will get me to the Masters main and thats the goal.
How are things going with the Stay Strong Team?
The lads in the UK are doing well and promoting which is what it's all about. Showing support to Murray and some of the brands that supported him over his career and some brands that were just down to help us out. Freeagent, Fox, Rockstar , Ogio, Dragon, Sinz, Intense Tyres and New Era have all been great to us this year and we appreciate it. The team was small scale 3 riders, Andy Shaw, Gareth Bates and myself but we are lucky to have Pablo Guttierez, Arnaud Dubois, Roy vd Berg and Florian Duhamel repping the clothing off the track also which Stephen is stoked about.
Plans for the Team in 2010?
Stephen wants me to grow the team and has set up a meeting with Rockstar while I'm in Cali, so fingers crossed with further support from Freeagent US and other co-sponsors the plan would be to get a US AA, 2 Euro Elites and maybe a couple more. I'd like to do a Stay Strong / Freeagent limited edition coloured frame and SS sticker set and have some other ideas to build on for next year.
QAG (Quick Answer Game).
Top 3 Elite Worlds this year:
Strombergs, Stumpy and KY.
Top 3 JN Worlds:
Daudet, Jelle , and Michael Chasteneuf (Sam and Denzel might take each other out and leave it open).
Top 3 European Championships Elite:
I'm a bit out of the loop on the Euro points but as Sifiso is now out I'm thinking Dubois and vd Berg could be back in the mix after recent good results...so I'd be happy to see them on the podium for the overall.
Who do you like to watch ride:
Brian Foster, Kye Forte, Bennett, Day, Cisar, Pablo, Dubois and Moana they all look Rad on their bikes....Darren Goodwin is a Rad expert dude out in Australia he's impressive.
Who's in your crew:
Bates, Shaw, Murrays, DH.com, Gunner, Gwert, Chico, Critchlow, Clarke and Kent.
Fav Tracks: Southpark, Sadnes, Weiderstadt, Tours. Food: Mexican and Italian. Music: Hip Hop. Cali or Oz: Oz was cool but I love Cali! Favourite sayings: Whats the latest? Livin the dream!
Future plans?
Race forever, keep Stephen's name out there as much as possible represent Stay Strong, travel and experience life to the max and one day do the tour again with a little zellwood ha!
Thursday 25 June 2009 Stephen Murray 2 Years On
Today (22 June) marks two years that Professional BMX Rider Stephen Murray was injured in competition which caused life altering injuries and ultimately leaving him a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the shoulders down. The single father of two amazing young boys, remains active in the BMX community and travels making appearances as much as his health will allow. He's a regular at the local BMX track "The Compound" where he brings his two sons to ride. Stephen has also started an apparel and accessories collection with long time friend and manager Kimarie Hunt. Stay Strong Apparel, established in 2007 was once just a saying and a single "t shirt" to show support to Stephen, has now the makings for a very successful corporation. Kimarie has brought the apparel Worldwide. You can find Stay Strong Apparel and Collection in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and more recently Hungary and Poland. Action Sports shops and online distribution such as danscomp.com and alansbmx in the UK.
Media has been instrumental in keeping Stephen's name and cause in the public eye. He has been featured on NBC, FUEL, MTV 2, TRL, BBC, HBO, ESPN and many local networks and magazines and newspapers. Kimarie has said, "we have all learned so much from Stephen and what strength and courage is really about". She ad's, "Stay Strong, is not just a saying, but a way of life, and how we have learned to live our's."
June 13, Godsmack played in the first annual Stay Strong Music Festival - press release & photos of event attached.
Tuesday, June 23 Stephen will sit down with ESPN's Sports Center and discuss "Pushing the Limits" to be aired in August. Wednesday Stephen and Kimarie will be attending the first stop Action Sports Tour, June 26-28 in Chicago. Stay Strong Apparel will also have a merchandise booth there, be sure to stop by and say hello.
Regards,
J. Fortney
"No Tomorrow Productions"
Tuesday 24 June 2009 Chris Hoy
Triple Cycling Track Olympic Gold Medalist Chris Hoy has just been Knighted back in the UK for his Beijing performance. Yes, he is Sir Chris now! He is already British Sports Personality of the year, ahead of the likes of David Beckham and F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton. Since the Olympics he's in the newspapers and TV daily back home. Basically, Chris is A List celebrity status these days, with a Sir to his name. Still super cool humble guy who used to race BMX and never forgets his roots in interviews, and always gives BMX a plug.
Monday 22 June 2009 Sifiso Nhlapo Injured
From bmxmania.com:
Hitting a training session hard today in Norway Sifiso had some bad luck. At first we thought it would be a repeat of last year where he knocked himself out and came back to a Bronze at Worlds. This time it is a little more serious.
Sifiso was out training with good friend Anders Gronsund in Norway tonight and what started as another day in the office has ended badly. Down the first straight hitting the second jump which is like a table top Sifiso got bounced off and landed on his head. The jaw piece of the fox helmet broke off thats how hard he crashed which left him unconscious.
Sifiso has been rushed to hospital and they have found the following, sorry I just got off the phone to a Norwegian doctor and this is what I could make out....he has fractured his 3rd & 4th cervical vertebrae and done a lot of damage to ligaments, they will be operating through the front of his neck. They have not picked up nerve damage yet so no signs of paralysis now. Once the first op is done he will be in a brace for 6 weeks then they will decide what they going to do with the damage ligaments.
Thats all I have for everyone now will keep you posted, will be updating his website :: skizo105.com :: with the latest on how he is doing.
Sunday 21 June 2009 Weekend Update
If you get chance, get your hands on the new copy of Ride UK; it's a must to read the Stephen Murray full blown interview. Stephen does not hold back on this one, talks about the full deal from how it started, to money, to how life is now since his crash. Check it out.
There's also some extra photos they put on the Ride Mag web site :: rideukbmx.com ::
Other stuff, Kyle had another good weekend over at ABA Rockford taking the UCI win, and it's just been confirmed the 2012 Worlds will be in Birmingham England (indoor). Can only be good for the sport back home.
Thursday 18 June 2009 MTB legend Missy Giove in bother!
This is BIG news, see below from the Saratogian and NY Daily News websites for the full story. If Giove is found to be guilty it is a very sad day for the downhill MTB community:
"Nearly 400 pounds of marijuana were seized in a drug bust on Preserve Way Tuesday. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration along with the Capital District Drug Enforcement Task Force conducted the bust at 22 Preserve Way Tuesday afternoon. Eric Canori, 30, of that address, and Melissa Giove, 37, of Chesapeake, Va. were both arrested on charges they conspired to posses and distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana..." :: continue on saratogian.com ::
"A former champion downhill mountain biker known for her outrageous looks and daredevil riding style was busted on Tuesday and charged with marijuana distribution by federal agents in upstate Wilton, N.Y. Missy "The Missile" Giove, 37, and co-defendant Eric Canori, 30, face up to 40 years in prison and a $2 million fine if convicted..." :: continue on nydailynews.com ::
Sunday 14 June 2009 Weekend Update
Chill weekend for me. Back in the US and just spent the weekend catching up on stuff at home since I've been gone. Race wise this weekend Kyle won the UCI round in Delaware and Fausto Endara won the Latin American UCI race in Bolivia. So good weekend for us.
Here's a few more pics from England last week.
Wednesday 10 June 2009 Peterborough UK
Rounds 5 & 6 of the UK National Series was held at Peterborough in the UK. The weather turned a bit cold and wet, but we still had a good weekend. Even though it rained pretty hard, the track held out well, which made for good racing with plenty of passing room on virtually every straight.
I had a good weekend, winning both days, with Kelvin Batey taking Elite both days. The UK Free Agent Team did good and ended up winning the Team Trophy, which topped off a good weekend.
Friday 05 June 2009 In the UK
Earlier this week I flew back to the UK to tidy up some stuff here and race a round of the UK National series at Peterborough, which I'm hitting up this weekend. Weather's been good so far; I hit up a few local tracks and caught up with the folks back home which was nice.
I always liked Peterborough track, I even raced it back in 1983. It's changed a bit since then, but the club is still going strong. Long, wide open with a good technical rhythm section, which should catch a few out. I went over Wednesday night to ride and ended up spending most of the time riding the Rhythm, it was that much fun, and that's unusual for me at this stage of the game.
Other stuff going on; I hear the South Africa round of the World Cup later this year will be a full on 2012 Olympic points qualifier for the Elites. Do any other sports start qualifying 3 years before the next Olympics? Not feeling that. I think even though the Olympics is so good for our sport, everyone involved got a little burnt out on the full qualifying deal last time around and it would be nice to have a few years after Beijing where the riders can chill and race when they want to, not 'cause they have to. Right now, racing in the States is the deepest it's ever been in talent, where I think a lot of the Olympic riders from last year just want to hit up some good old fashioned BMX races, represent their sponsors and make a little coin and have fun, with no Olympic pressure. Just my take.
MTB World Cup from Scotland this weekend on Freecaster along with F1 from Europe. I know Javier Colombo will be getting his Speed channel on like the big F1 fan he is!
Todays video: me, Jamie Staff and Dylan Clayton racing in Peterborough back in '96 when the track was a little easier!
Thursday 04 June 2009 Interview with the UK's Dominic Skidmore Free Agent/Route55BMX.com
"BLACKJACK" DOMINIC SKIDMORE
By Kelvin Batey
Dom Skidmore is a rider who has gone from making his National debut less than 1 year ago and going out in the first round to a podium maker in the first National of 2009. He has dedicated himself to BMX Racing all through the 08/09 winter at such a young age and its very obvious to see the results of what hard work and dedication can do for someone.
Blackjack has one of the best top end leg speeds I have ever seen for someone of his age and his ever improving gates and first straight will eventually let him open up for everyone to see this on the track. He is a very fast learner and seeing some moves he has done in the first part of the 2009 season has shown how quickly he has matured as a BMX racer, the best being his final at the first National of the year where a bad gate put him right at the back of the pack, for him to come back strongly to end up 3rd at the line. Very impressive. When Dom finally starts to believe how good he actually is and rides other race tracks he rides his local track, the rest of the 15-16 class will have an extremely hard time coping with him
Name: Dom Skidmore
Nickname: Blackjack
Age/race class: 15/16 boys
First Race: My first race was at Mansfield in 2008. I did really good and after that I was drawn to racing. Its become the biggest thing in my life because its the best sport in the World.
Bike: FreeAgent Team Limo 21 tt - its the best bike I've ever riden looks top dog and rides sick. Everyone who lives near me or rides at the local track all now want a Freeagent!
Favorite piece of sponsored equiment: Sinz carbon forks, THE Twisted Vine Helmet, Shimano DXR cranks, and the Limo Frame. So everything pretty much.
Main competition in your class: Jack Hall and Grant Hill who are really good riders. They have good starts and first straights which always gives them a chance of doing well.
Strengths on the track: Making moves in the corners and planning my races before they start. I also have a good top speed in sprints.
Best results to date: The Easter National at Derby, I won every race until the main and finished 3rd coming from 8th place after a bad gate.
Favorite riders: Maris Strombergs, Kyle Benett, Dale Holmes, Kelvin Batey.
Favorite sportsperson away from BMX: Steven Gerrard - Liverpool and England football player.
Any other sports you do: I go to the gym with Kelvin each week and its where a lot of top sportspeople in my area train. Theres plenty to do in between sets as well when the gym is busy if you know what I mean!
Goals for 2009: Top 3 in the overall National rankings and to make the podium at the British Championships.
Favourite sporting quote: STAY STRONG - Stephen Murray.
Sunday 31 May 2009 Interview with the UK's Jack Hall Free Agent/Route55BMX.com
The UK's Kelvin Batey has really gone back to what BMX is all about this year...FUN, and with his new approach and giving back we really wanted to get involved and support Kelvin's new project setting up a Grass Roots Team in the UK, along with Jason Boness at Reece Cycles our UK Free Agent distribution.
Kelvin not only picked and runs the Team, he trains them as well under his Route55BMX.com banner. What started as Grass Roots riders Kelvin has already transformed the Team into National winners. Kelvin just sent a bunch of interviews he did with the boys which I'll post during the next few weeks. What I like everyone on the Team has been given a nickname! ha ha
"THE MACHINE" JACK HALL
Jack has made an unbelievable start to the 2009 season winning 3 out of the 4 races that have been held so far. He is still only 14 years old and with the 15-16 class being stacked this year I think its unbelievable The Machine's results so far and a credit to how hard he's worked through the Winter. He is definitely living up to his nickname. In the 2 Nationals that have been held so far this year in the UK I have not only been impressed with his awesome gates and first straight pull but also the way he has prepared for some races, even taking naps before some mains. He is coolness personified.
Jack is definitely on course to attaining his goals for 2009 and Im sure he can go on to even better things in the coming years. Its going to be hard for the rest of the class through this year now he's in the groove and full of confidence and Im especially looking forward to seeing what impact he can make on the European scene when he races the International round at Cheddar in a few weeks time.
Name: Jack Hall
Nickname: The Machine
Age/Race class: 14/15-16 boys
First race: My first race was in march 2007 at the Rotherham bmx track. I won!
Bike: Free Agent Team Limo frame. Parts supplied by THE and Sinz.
Main competition in my class: Everyone who makes an 'A' final in 15-16 has my respect.
Strengths on the track: I think my strengths are gates and power. My technical skill could be improved and you better believe I am working on it! Its getting there and I feel an improvement at every race I do.
Best result to date: I would have to say the highlight of my racing career has been winning both days at Burnham National this year. 15-16 is a tough class and being one of the youngest in there it was a real good achievement to do this and now sit top of the National standings.
Favourite Tracks: Peterborough, Coppull and Mansfield.
Favourite riders: In the UK it is a toss up between Paddy Sharrock and Daniel Whyte. Both are great riders in there own respect. And of course my coach and team mate Kelvin Batey.
Favourite Sports person away from BMX: Muhammad Ali and Sir Chris Hoy.
Any other sports you do: I like training in the gym and Play the odd game of Rugby. But with doing a Y.A in sport at college I get an insight into a lot of sports. For my work experience Ill be working with Kelvin at the school he works at in Rotherham.
Goals for 09: Win all remaining rounds of the National BMX Series and make an impact at the European round at Cheddar.
Favorite sporting quote: Muhammad Ali "I'm so fast that last night I turned off the light switch in my hotel room and got into bed before the room was dark".
All I know is this kid (Danny MacAskill) lives in Scotland, and pretty damn good even though its not BMX. Over 6 Million views on YouTube already!
Tuesday 26 May 2009 Stephen Murray Benefit
Godsmack Plays to Benefit Stephen Murray Recovery
101X, Jack Daniels, Surf Sesh to benefit Stephen Murray
June 13, 2009
Shallow Water Productions presents:
All day fun session of music, wake surf competition, wakeskate winch demos, pro BMX demo, Guitar hero contest, surf lessons, bikini contest, boat demos, family fun day with slip and slide and other floating lake toys, concert, and all round Action Sports extravaganza! Most importantly to help out a man that is a friend of many but an inspiration to millions. His name is Stephen Murray and profits will be donated to benefit his recovery, through the Active Force Foundation.
101X - KROX FM, Austin Texas, is teaming up with adbirds.com, to host an online charity garage sale to raise funds for an organization called Active Force Foundation, specifically benefiting the Stephen Murray Family Fund & Stay Strong Apparel.
There are two ways to help:
1. Beginning Monday, May 18th, list any items you have for sale (businesses can have complete listings for free, too).
Upon check-out, it will ask you if you'd like to reference a charity, when doing so, select 101X/Stephen Murray. Now, happy selling! You list it, you sell it, and adbirds.com donates $1 in your name to the foundation, up to $4000! I have that many items I could get rid of in my own garage!
2. Donate items to be sold in the 101X on-line garage sale. On Thursday, June 5th, we're hosting an on-line garage sale and 100% of the proceeds will go to the foundation benefiting Stephen Murray. What can you donate? Event tickets, sporting goods, dinner certificates, services, t-shirts, movie memorabilia, cars, boats, liquor packages, anything!
Stephen Murray is a 3-time U.S. Gold medal champion BMX rider who was injured at an event in 2007. At the age of 27, Stephen Murray is a quadriplegic, a single father of two beautiful sons, an athlete, and an inspiration to many. You may have heard of his story on Bryant Gumbel's HBO Special or through numerous other television appearances. Stephen Murray hopes to be able to walk, ride and compete one day, but his goal to hold his children again is his most important dream.
For more information on Stephen Murray please visit:
Myspace.com/murraystrong :: website::
Stephen Murray - MTV "No Ordinary BMX Accident" Part 1 :: video ::
TJ Lavin - Soldier: a tribute to Stephen Murray :: video ::
101X & event information please contact:
Christy Dedear l Sr. Account Manager
KROX-FM l 101X l Streaming live at :: 101X.com ::
d. 512.908.4918
f. 512.832.4071
cdedear@krox.com
Saturday 23 May 2009 Weekend
No racing this weekend which should be nice. Been chilling this week, Martin Murray is in Town so we BBQed over at Stephens and took the boys out to Perris. Been lunching it with Marc Willers at the usual spots and that's about it. First Outdoor Motorcross National this weekend at Glen Helen so might go check it out. Have a good weekend.
Monday 18 May 2009 Fresno NBL National
Good weekend up in Fresno for the NBL All American Nationals. Great facility, probably one of the best tracks in the country, which can boast track, trails, MTB Park and more riding stuff going in as we talk, with all good people involved. (Thanks to Ryan Garcia for totally taking care of us this weekend.)
Friday we ran a Free Agent Clinic that went super well; I think all the kids had a good time even though it was 100 plus degrees.
Racing went good; local Stumpy took it Saturday from Maris and Donny, with Maris coming back to win Sunday with Donny 2nd, Mike Day 3rd and Kyle 4th.
I won Saturday and came in 2nd on Sunday behind Dave Bitner, who went big so deserves the win.
Saturday night the guys financing the Fresno Bike Park project took the whole Free Agent Team and NBL Staff out to a Casino for dinner, which was pretty cool and which turned into a real good night. Thanks to Kevin O'Brian for hooking that up.
In all, a super fun positive weekend. Our boys are taking a break now. Maris went back to Latvia for a while, KB's going to schedule some Big A races and not tell anyone, Big C needs a week off cause he's flat and I'm going to drink some Starbucks and plan the 2nd part of the year.
Wednesday 13 May 2009 Latest
This weekend we're heading up to Fresno, California for the NBL Nationals. Friday, myself and Cristian Becerine will be conducting a Free Agent Clinic that starts at 11 am. If any of you riders out there looking for some coaching before the National sign ups will get rolling around 10 am. Hope to see you guys out there.
Yesterday Javier, Cristian and Carnes came up for the day and met up with myself and Marc Willers who is back in town from his European travels. Wahoos, The Boneyard, UCI Supercross talk and Star Bucks. Good times.
Monday 11 May 2009 World Cup Latest
Had a chill weekend at home watching all kinds of racing online. UCI Supercross from Denmark, MTB World Cup from France and F1 on TV. Congrats to the UK's Steve Peat who took the Downhill World Cup win in France this weekend. 35 and still on top! Check out :: dirtmag.co.uk :: and :: freecaster :: for video coverage of both the BMX and MTB. Peaty is the man!
Thursday 7 May 2009 ABA Bakersfield
Good weekend up in Bakersfield, CA for the ABA Nationals. AA was deep with some good racing. Maris just missed out on winning both days after spinning the gate 3rd main Saturday but came back strong Sunday to win all 3 mains. Denzel ended up winning Saturday and Stumpy did it for the old guys hitting the podium both days.
Vet was tough this weekend 3rd both days for me behind fellow 90's Specialists Purse and Romero. Still good fun racing and another good National from the folks at ABA.
Monday 27 April 2009 Fresno Pre-National Clinic May 15
Free Agent BMX Pre-National Clinic May 15, 2009
Lead by 4-time UCI World Champion Dale Holmes and NBL Elite National #2 and Olympian Cristian Becerine!
World and Olympic Champion Maris Strombergs will be on hand to sign Autographs and present Clinic Rider Of The Day Prize!
WHEN - May 15, 2009 11:00am to 2:00pm
WHERE - N. Friant City, Fresno, CA 93720
HOW - $30 Pre Sign-Up with track operator Ryan Garcia ryan.garcia@fresno.gov or email Dale
or
$35 on the morning of the clinic
Work on your jumps, gates, turns. Improve your race strategy. Don't miss this chance to work on your BMX skills with some of the world's top pros!
Saturday 25 April 2009 Free Agent/Kenda European Sebastian Kartfjord
New Free Agent/Kenda European Sebastian Kartfjord sent me a few pictures of him testing out the new FA since getting on the Team. Seb's a laid back cool Norwegian who is pretty funny and that's why we picked him up for the Team. Since the Olympics last year Seb's had to have surgery on his knee, but almost ready to hit the track again for 09. He asked me today if he can get another bike for sprint training so he doesn't have to change gears on his race bike all the time. I told him if he wants an easy gear, sprint down a hill and if he wants a hard one, sprint up a hill! Old Skool training that helped save the shipping budget at the same time! Eurr...
Back in California now after a trip back to England, which was nice. Since the race last week at Derby I was running around catching up on stuff back there, which included a quick trip down to London with the folks.
Michal Prokop rolled in for a week last night, and along with Maris and Kristaps I guess we're going to get some riding in this week as the weather is so good. It's always cool when Michal comes over as he orders us boxes of Redbull (his sponsor) to keep us going at the Ranch!
A few weeks ago I hooked up with Adidas as personal sponsor (NAM) and already have got so much cool stuff to sport, cheers to MB for the hook up.
I forgot to mention, a big thanks to my friend Brett Carter back in the UK who had built and run my site for the last few years, and a big thanks to my friend Lewis who has taken over DH.com duties and came up with the new layout. Lewis also put together and runs my Free Agent blog, which is linked from freeagentbmx.com
Last off, thanks to Dave at Fastlane BMX Magazine in the UK for the interview I got in the new issue (issue 2).
Friday 17 April 2009 More Pictures from UK Derby National
Wednesday 15 April 2009 Derby UK National
Last weekend I raced the first UK National of the year at my old home track in Derby, which is in central England. The track and club have been revamped since my last time home and all for the better. Racing is on the up since the Olympics back in the UK. Lots of new teams, media, and sponsors coming in which can be only good. BMX racing has been in the newspapers everyday all week here and on the cover most of the time.
Super cool to see loads of old friends on the race front. Seems like everyone is getting back into BMX themselves or coming out for the second time round with the kids. Even a bunch of my old school friends came out to watch. Pretty tired during the racing due to only flying in Friday morning, but managed to take the win both days.
Elite was looking deeper than normal, lots of new faces bumped up, along with all the National Team showing up to race. Drama day one. It was the first Batey/Phillips meeting since the Olympic trials, so you knew there was tension before they even got on the gate. Liam Phillips took the lead in the final only for Kelvin to make a good pass on him in turn one and across the finish line in 1st with what most thought a great win. Not to be; Kelvin was Dqd for cutting the turn (which he didn't) and that's where the drama started. Parents/hanger-ons/Fake buddies/wannabees/National Coaches you name it, everyone had an opinion and at one point it looked like a riot was about to kick off. Anyway, after a good 30 min of heated talking/shouting everyone walked away and hopefully that will be the end of it.
In all still a great weekend and great to see UK BMX Racing on the up.
Sunday 12 April 2009 NBL Easter Classic
NBL Easter Classic in Florida, Saturday results: Elite Men 1. Maris Strombergs. 2. Kyle Bennett. Sunday: 1. Maris Strombergs. 2. Kyle Bennett.
Wednesday 08 April 2009 Trip back to the UK
Heading back to the UK this weekend. It's been over a year since I've been back, so be good to catch up with everyone and hit up the first UK National of the year which is in fact in my home town Derby and should be fun. Got a bunch of stuff to do while I'm back so it's going to be a pinned trip.
Monday 06 April 2009 Anthony Sewell 1962-2009
By Keith Mulligan (Ride Magazine)
Word of legendary BMX racer Anthony Sewell's passing is floating around on the Internet. Apparently he passed away in his sleep Friday evening.
Sewell started his racing career in 1974 at the age of 12 at California's Palms park track. He was an accomplished track star who competed in the hurdles. When track meets and BMX races both fell on weekends he decided to drop the track thing and focus on BMX.
In 1978 he became the first "official" World Champion after winning the trophy dash at the '78 Jag World Championships. The following year, In 1979, at the age of 17, he turned pro.
Sewell had many sponsors including Jag, Kuwahara, huffy, Murray, KHS, GT, and even S&M. This paragraph from Wikipedia elaborates:
"After dropping out of racing for two years he raced at the ABA Bakersfield Nationals in Bakersfield, California. It was in response to Chris Moeller jokingly posted signs around the Orange YMCA BMX track as part of the 'search' for Sewell. Sewell heard about the search and the posters and went to the Orange YMCA track for those responsible. Not at all angry he was happy that people still knew of him after his retirement. He struck a deal with S&M Bicycles and given a bicycle two uniforms and his entrance fees paid. He was sponsored for only the weekend. He did not make any mains. He crashed in all three qualifying motos both days. Later, his S&M race bicycle was stolen. He then disappeared from the racing scene once again."
Sewell is credited as being the first person to do no-handers, the first pro to hold the Number 1 Pro title in two sanctions at the same time (NBA and NBL in 1980), and he was inducted into the ABA BMX Hall of Fame in 1998.
He will be missed.
Thursday 02 April 2009 Fontana National 4-Cross Video
My old mate from the UK has been staying this week, DJ CK Flash. CK is always on the go doing so much for BMX racing back in the UK, training his number 1 Club in the UK Peckham (London) alongside his training camps and promoting BMX in the schools around the UK.
Since he's been here he's been documenting everything we've been up to including interview with the boys and filming the 4 x last week.
Check out his video site :: ckflash.com ::
Good weekend at the 1st Mountainbike National of the year at Fontana. Everything went well for me and I took the win in 4x. Check out :: jillkintner.com :: for more.
Tuesday 24 March 2009 Vegas Weekend
Get well soon to our guy Connor Fields, who crashed hard out at the UCI/US National Championships in Dallas Texas this past weekend. Connor unfortunately got a Grade 3 lacerated spleen, but should make a full recovery. Will keep you posted on how he's doing.
For myself, I went over to Fontana on Saturday to race 4x. Just got a new bike so wanted to see how it rode. Had a good day and took the win over Brian Schmidt, Blake Carney and Eric Carter.
March 18, 2009 Weekend
Last weekend we headed out to Las Vegas for the NBL National. Cool chill layed back weekend with some good racing. Maris won Saturday with Cristian taking it Sunday. Here's a link for my regular updates I do for the Free Agent site with results and pictures from events which my friend Lewis puts together and posts on the Free Agent site :: click here ::
Monday 16 March 2009 Pictures from the 90's!
Got a few good old skool pictures sent to me over the last few weeks on Facebook. First up pretty cool shot of me at the finish line right when I won the 96 World Champs in Brighton England.
Shots like these I always like to see who I can spot in the back ground. On this particular shot you can see my Mum in a blue jacket with her head down with a bag in her hand. Looks like she could be calling my sister to tell her I won, but I don't think there were cell phones in the UK in 96! Also, you can see my Dad (stripy shirt) talking to Scott Beaumont, who also won Junior Cruiser that weekend.
Rob Indri (RIP) is standing behind my mum and next to him my old naughty funny mate from London Keith Joseph!
Looks like Mum and Dad finally get some photo contingency for being on DH.com. For some reason it's taken a few years for them to make the site! ha ha
Next photo was taken as we were just about to get on the Podium at the European Cup in Slagharen Holland 93. Left to right. Me with lots of hair, Rob Bulton, Jamie Staff, Eric Abbadessa, Bas De Bever, Corrine Dorland, who probably just won Elite Women and the far right Wilco Groenendaal and the God Father of European BMX, Gerrit Does. Gerrit has to have the best page on Facebook by the way. Pure European BMX History!
Wilco won the race followed by Jamie and me in 3rd. I think the Wildman was in the final as well. Good times!
Other stuff. Michal Prokop just got dropped by the Czech Republic National Team over race shirt issues. (how stupid) So I guess he will focus more on 4x for 09 as he was telling me.
Thursday 12 March 2009 ABA Arizona
Last weekend was the ABA/UCI Winter Nationals in Phoenix, Arizona. Always nice out in Arizona this time of year. Perfect race conditions. Track was good, all the big dogs were racing in Elite. (8 Groups) filmed for NBC TV.
All the BMX media were present covering the race, and even Johan from the UCI made the trip out from Switzerland to check on the action. Pro racing is on the up for sure. Maris was flying, winning the UCI race Saturday and just missing out on the win to Donny on Sunday after mistake in the first main. Still, a lot of guys going fast right now. To make the mains now is a retty big deal in Elite/UCI.
For me, been sick since Florida, so no energy or chance to run up front much this weekend.
Monday 09 March 2009 Fred King
Yesterday I went over to Stephens house to meet up with Fred King who was visiting Stephen from France.
Fred was a top racer in Europe back in the 80's and 90's, in the early 2000's he was French Champion, European number 2 and was 4th in the 99 Worlds. Super fast guy, anyone that is number 1 Pro in France has pretty much gone on to be a top rider World Wide, something Fred was on the verge of doing until 2002 were he crashed during a French National and was Paralyzed and disappeared from the race scene.
Anyway since his crash Fred has regrouped and moved on with his life and doing good . ( some great pictures on his face book on what he gets up to) Fred finally made it out to California this week and its the first time ive seen him since 2005 and he looked so good. Stephen and Fred knew each other since we all use to race in Europe Back in the day and they have kept in touch since Stephen has got hurt. Fred bought lots off positive inspiration to Stephen today we were all stoked Fred came out and we all got to catch up and have a good debate if Christophe could still hang down the first straight in AA these days if he tried! ha ha.
Thursday 05 March 2009 Free Agent and Kenda Announce 2009 Europen BMX Race Team
Dominguez Hills, Calif - Free Agent and Kenda are pleased to announce the new Free Agent/Kenda European BMX Race Team for 2009. The team will consist of four riders from England, Norway, Latvia, and Holland, and is looking to expand even more in the future.
"Free Agent has built a great relationship with Kenda over the years. They've supported both our Free Agent BMX and our KHS Mountain bike teams," said Team Manger Dale Holmes. "We decided it only made sense to set up a joint team project in Europe."
The 2009 Free Agent/Kenda BMX Race team line- up includes:
Kelvin Batey (England) - 20x British Champion, 18x National Champion, 2x World Medalist.
Sebastian Kartfjord (Norway) - 2x Scandinavian Champion, 4x Norwegian Champion, 4x National Champion, Olympian.
Kristers Lejins (Latvia) - 4 x Latvian Champion.
Sharon van der Kolk (Holland) - 2 x Dutch Champion.
The team is based in Europe and will compete European and National Events. In addition, the team will work in conjunction with the Free Agent US and International Teams. The first major event will be the first round off the European Championships held Holland on April 3-5th.
In addition to Free Agent and Kenda, the 2009 European Race Team will also be sponsored by Tioga Seats, Sun, THE, Sinz, Shimano, ODI, Thompson, Samox, and Amino Vital.
Wednesday 04 March 2009 ABA BMX Winter Nationals at Phoenix, AZ. to have Olympic BMX GOLD!
2008 Olympic BMX Gold Medalist will once again be on hand at the ABA BMX Winter Nationals in Phoenix, AZ. Free Agent's AA PRO, and Latvia's own Maris Strombergs made his ABA BMX debut in Reno, NV. earlier this season and made a great impression with the fans. He's really starting to hit his stride in the USA, having an excellent weekend at the ABA BMX Gator Nationals in Oldsmar, FL
Maris is excited about the ABA BMX Winter Nationals and will be doing a few autograph sessions through the weekend at the Free Agent Team pit area.
Maris will have his actual 2008 Olympic Gold medal on hand for the fans to see as well! Be sure to stop by the Free Agent Team pit area to say hello to Maris.
He's a super nice guy, a great rider, and how often do you get to meet an Olympic GOLD Medalist with his medal in hand?
This is a great opportunity for the fans and a HUGEthanks goes out to Dale Holmes, Free Agent, and Maris Strombergs for coming out this weekend. We hope to see everyone there!
Wednesday 02 March 2009 New UK Magazine
Checkout the new English BMX Racing magazine Fastlane fastlanebmx.com, It's pretty much full on bmx racing with a little 4x in there to add to the flavor. Colour, good quality and a great race shot of Kelvin Batey on the cover.
Dave Lane from the UK who has put it together has done an excellent job with the mag to help support the race scene and industry back in the UK. Check it out if you get chance.
Speaking of Kelvin Batey, I'm pleased to see Kelvin has regrouped after his his Olympic fiasco with British Cycling and going back to basics.
Enjoying his BMX racing and giving back to the sport he has so much passion for.
Kelvin is now teaching BMX in schools back in the UK (yes schools) How cool is that for BMX. Alongside, training riders in the UK, web site ::route55bmx.com::
We just worked out a deal where Kelvin will be back on Free Agent for 09 and setting up a Free Agent Team back in the UK with help from our UK distribution company Reece Cycles.
More on the new Free Agent European Team in the next few days.
Thursday 26 February 2009 ABA/UCI Florida
Last weekend we went down to Tampa Florida for the ABA/UCI event. NBC were filming again for the UCI race on Saturday and Cristian took the big win against the Worlds best. Congrats to big C. Sunday D.R won with Maris and Kyle coming in 2nd and 3rd. Our Junior Connor Fields came home with 2 wins and a second so another great weekend for the Team. 6 Racks off Elite for the UCI and ABA gave out some good prize money in return! Great weekend, I always love going to Florida!
Maris, Kyle and Cristian.
Cristian getting interviewed by Dinger.
Dinner Time in Tampa: Dale, Maris, Kristaps, Kyle and Big C in new Blue tight teeshirt!
Friday 20 February 2009 Ramiro Marino
Ramiro Marino (buddy) has not been on the US circuit for awhile. Since the Olympics he took a break and now is focusing on the UCI South American races for the first part off the 09 season. So far he is 5 for 5 with wins in Chile, Argentina and just a few weeks ago won a big race in Brazil. Live TV , big prize money, I'm thinking UCI Points leader as well right now. Eurrr Buddy, WTL? We love you!
Wednesday 11 February 2009 RIP Jeremy Lusk
Sad news to report today Motorcycle FMX Rider Jeremy Lusk passed away Monday night after crashing on a back flip during a Freestyle event in Costa Rica Saturday night causing major head injury's.
Jeremy lived just a few street over from me so I would often see him at the Gym, Starbucks or loading up his Motorcross bike in his truck if I was riding by his street from time to time. Always a nice guy that would say hi if i saw him around town. For more info you can go to espn.com or any Motorcross web site to read more details. RIP Jeremy.
Wednesday 10 February 2009 Lake Perris National
Cold and wet over in So-Cal for the Lake Perris National. Still, a great event. TV is back for BMX racing and the Elite class is as deep as ever.
Seth Murray (One of Stephen's boys) made his race debut and hit the podium first try! No wonder Free Agent snapped him up!
Big thanks to BA, ABA Ray at Fly and Jason at MJT for all taking great care of Seth and the Murrays this weekend. Jason, that blow up picture you did for Seth straight after his final bought a tear to Cynthia (Stephen's mum visiting from the UK) when I gave it to her. She was so stoked.
I had a good weekend, placing 2nd on Saturday behind John Purse, and a win on Sunday. Mike Day won AA Saturday, with Joey Bradford taking the UCI race on Sunday, followed by Maris and Stumpy. Denzil won Junior, followed by our guy Connor Fields in 2nd, who also won 16x as well.
So a great weekend for the Team.
Thursday 05 February 2009 Practice at Perris
Kristaps, Ivo, Stephen, Maris, AA Pete, Fausto.
Future Olympic Champion Seth Murray with the current one!
The Murray boys and Maris.
Javier, Stephen, Cristian.
Thursday 29 January 2009 Update
Elite/AA/Supermodel/Actor, Matt Pohlkamp, just sent me a box of scented cleaning wipes, which he and his wife have produced and which are already in the stores. Matt was telling me they researched the idea, made the product, and put them out on the market.
They really do work. My computer keyboard and screen are sparkling after using the wipes. It's called Celly Smellys. Check it out. Available on www.toysrus.com or hit up Matt when you see him at the races. For more info on his website mattpolkamp.com.
All you 90s race fans check out youtube under brobruck. Zack Robuck put up his old his video collection. Some classic 90s races with Leveque, Veltman, Nelson, Staff and co Pretty cool.
Wednesday 21 January 2009 Weeekend
Good weekend over at the NBL Season Opened in Goodyear Arizona. Maris won Elite both days, Connor doubled both days, Fausto won Superclass, and I won the Masters both days. Cristian was going good also but just had some back luck in the mains and went home with some painful road rash due to Sundays main event crash but he will be back.
Got Maris, Ivo and Kristaps staying with me here in Murrieta at the moment till we find them a house, its pretty cool finding out how these guys tick. Super humble good guys , its a pleasure having them stay.
Monday I went over to Stephens and met up with Brian Lopes Adele and Steve Peat who were all in town visiting. Great day hanging out.
The FA pits in AZ.
Big C, Maris, Kristaps, Connor and Ivo.
Podium Sunday: Mike Day, Maris and Stumpy.
DH.com.
Chilling at Stephens. L to R Brian Lopes, me, Jeff, Stephen, Adele and Steve Peat.
Friday 16 January 2009 Reno Pictures
Team during Photo shoot.
DH.com.
Maris and Bib C.
Connor Fields.
Tuesday 06 January 2009 Xmas/New Year
Hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Year. I took Christmas off this year and just went back to basic's riding my bike for fun and hanging out with the boys!
We had some super great sessions over at Redmans almost daily. Mike Redman is the man, his door is always open for us and his house and backyard is always full off riders getting there ride on and hanging out. (Redman even does old Crank TV, interviews and introductions when were on the gate, so funny.)
I sessioned with all kind off super fast young Ams that ride at the Boneyard. Its proven, when Redman works with the kids, they win! Proven year after year!
Some of the regulars that I been riding the last few weeks. KY,Cisar, Aaron Johnson, Willers, Becerine, Sipkol, Houseman brothers, Javier, the list goes on. Good times.
