Tamworth City BMX Club is celebrating strong results from its riders at the 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships in Brisbane, and is now inviting the local community to try the sport for themselves at a Discover BMX event later this month.
Jack Davis, Lachlan Wallis and Hayne Dawson represented Australia at the world titles, with both Lachlan Wallis and Hayne Dawson placing in the top four in their first three races ahead of the finals. Unfortunately, bad weather forced the cancellation of the elite racing, meaning Jack Davis did not get the chance to show his speed on the world stage.
Club registrar Craig Wallis said the club was now turning its attention to growing the sport at home, with a Discover BMX event planned for Sunday 30 August from 10am to 11am at Tamworth City BMX Club.
“The idea is to attract some new people to the sport of BMX racing. We’ll be running an information session as well as helping kids get out on the track and have a go,” Mr Wallis said.
The event is open to riders of all ages and abilities, with the club keen to show that BMX racing is not just for the young or experienced.
“It’s aimed at all age groups, from five right up to 55, and all experience levels. We actually have a rider who competes with cerebral palsy, so it really is a come-one, come-all event,” Mr Wallis said.
Those who come along on the day can expect a welcoming introduction to the sport, with support on hand from coaches, board members and even some of the club’s National riders.
“They can expect to have fun. Gear will be provided for anyone who doesn’t have their own, and we’ll have coaches on hand as well as board members there to chat with parents and prospective new riders. Some of our National riders will also be there, and if people want to stay longer, our club races kick off straight after the event,” Mr Wallis said.
Riders are welcome to bring their own bike and gear as long as it meets the required standards, or borrow what they need on the day.
While the timing follows closely on from the club’s world championship campaign, Mr Wallis said the event was about building the sport locally rather than riding on recent results.
“Not really, this is more about building awareness of the sport within our community and showing people just how exciting BMX racing is, with the aim of growing our rider numbers,” Mr Wallis said.
He said the club welcomed riders at every level.
“Honestly, all of the above. The club supports riders at every level, whether that’s a complete beginner or someone racing at an elite level,” Mr Wallis said.
There is no need to register, with the event free for anyone wanting to give BMX a try. Those who decide to join the club afterwards will receive a four week free membership.
Mr Wallis described the club as a relaxed and welcoming place for families, with a competitive edge for those who want it.
“It’s a relaxed, fun environment where the kids have a great time. For those who want to race competitively, that’s on offer too, and it creates a really great atmosphere with everyone from the club cheering each other on,” Mr Wallis said.
A typical training session runs through a sign-on, warm-up, an hour on the track with a coach, and finishes with games, while race days include sign-on, warm-up, three moto races and two final races.
Mr Wallis had a simple message for any Tamworth family considering giving BMX a go.
“Just turn up on the day. You’ll be made to feel welcome and introduced to a great group of people,” Mr Wallis said.
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