Lake County BMX began racing over 20 years ago with a track at the Lake County Fair Grounds. The BMX track has always been run by parents and the local bicycle shop. The track has been sponsored by the American Bicycle Association (ABA) every year. This sponsorship offers the riders insurance against injury.

Through a succession of parents who ran the track with donated equipment, outbuildings, gates, and lots of time and labor, the track was renovated several times. Over the years Races For Life were held to support the fight against Muscular Dystrophy, with huge rider turnout from locals as well as out of town riders and families.

The enjoyment that you get when watching these BMX riders from age 4 and up in the Big Wheel races racing their heart out, or if you were to purchase a raffle ticket, have a cold drink or snack, and continue to watch age group motos run while an announcer keeps track of developments over the public address system, is contagious. The competition always heated up when there were full gates of riders and dust often flew as legs pumped. Real Exciting!

Our local adults got into the competition as well on their Cruiser Bikes, or on unicycles. Also enjoyable to see was the trophy, medal or ribbons that were awarded. The faces of the children when they won was priceless.

Three years ago the Lake County Fairgrounds determined that the up and coming Westside Park could be the new home of the race track. We are working towards that goal, with Phase Two of the park to be completed in three or four years from now.

Lake County BMX is looking for a temporary home for the next three to four years. We need to lease at least two acres with water and electricity. We need help from our community to get this temporary project done so the kids can continue to race.

Lake County BMX is holding a raffle to raise depleted funds to lease a spot in which to race. We are offering terrific prizes, a BMX bike from the Bicycle Rack, an 83-piece tool set from Sears, a $100 carpet cleaning from Valley Carpet Care and a European facial from Butterfly Skin Essentials. You can buy tickets at the Bicycle Rack or from individuals who are selling the tickets. Any support from the community would be greatly appreciated.

Remember to watch BMX racing at the next Olympic games.

Ellen Karnowski has served as a track announcer, is a former board member and a supportive parent. She lives in Kelseyville.

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