More to the Story with Staley: Bradley BMX

BRADLEY COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — Maybe you’re not a BMX-Motocross fan, but you’ve almost certainly heard about it. It’s organized bicycle racing on a dirt track, using a kind of bike that’s specifically designed for that type of racing.

Bradley County has a BMX track. It’s been around for 25 years, and it has a rich history!

“Bradley BMX has produced a world number eight, as well as a world number six, with several national number one caliber rider,” track operator Chris Noles said. “And we have several riders from our area that are participating this week in the world championships in Scotland.”

It’s a big weekend for Bradley BMX. After Friday’s regular racing events, the state qualifier goes down Saturday. And then Sunday, it’s the Gold Cup regional qualifier. If you want to advance in competition, you must qualify in these events.

The riders of all ages feel the same way as Chris Noles does. For it’s a love of the competition that just can’t be beat.

“I always enjoyed the daredevil stuff. Not every kid fits into the world of mainstream sports. That’s what is so rewarding to me,” Noles explained.

The track in Bradley County is roughly 1,300 feet long. Those who keep it running are all volunteers. But if the money comes in, upgrades are in the future plans.

“This year, we want to build a covered area on the start-finish line. And we hope to put in a new starting gate next year,” Noles said. “That’s why we continually try and raise funds.”

So, if you have a hankering to watch the best at something apply their skills, the track in Cleveland this weekend is the place to be.

BMX not only appeals to the younger generation. In some cases, the “seniors” will get in on the action as well. Some competitors can be as old as 65.