Pedal to the Medal
When Mackenzie and Anthony Slivka of Lincoln decided it was time for their son Adrian to learn to ride his bike, he was five years old. Adrian was hesitant like many kids and not very interested at first. After a few months, Adrian’s parents decided it was time to ditch the training wheels and let him loose. They never could have guessed what would happen next.
Two days after the training wheels had made their departure, the Slivka family was enjoying a bike ride on the MoPac Trail. Suddenly, Adrian just hopped up on his bike seat with his feet and did his first trick!
“We were both stunned,” said Anthony, with pride. “Mackenzie and I looked at each other and knew we needed to get him into a cycling club, but we didn’t know exactly what that looked like.”
Visiting with their friend, the Slivkas learned about Lincoln’s BMX track and they decided to give it a shot. “We were a little nervous to try a new sport, just like any parent or kid would be,” said Mackenzie. “But you never know unless you try.”
Within a week, they loaded up the family and Adrian’s bike in their SUV and made their way to a track near Cornhusker Highway.
“Everyone at the track welcomed us and showed us the ropes,” Mackenzie added. “There was definitely a lot we needed to learn but the other parents gave us tips to be successful and enjoy this sport.”
Initially, Adrian started out by riding several times a week with a second-hand bike, borrowed gear, and a desire to compete. “I didn’t know when we started that adults could practice and compete too,” said Anthony. “I love to be active and ride, so shortly after Adrian joined the BMX club, I got involved as well.”
Fast forward ten bikes, four helmets, many weekends traveling to BMX competitions around the country, and several trophies later, the Slivkas will tell you that they love being a part of BMX. And now, Anthony, Adrian, and little sister Amaya are on the Cycle Works team!
Get Started in BMX
If you are interested in Bicycle Motocross (BMX), Star City BMX is ready to help you. BMX racing is a sport for the whole family, whether you’re a rider or spectator. Riders from ages 5 to 65 regularly compete — all you need is a bike, determination, and a USA BMX track.
Bike
We recommend a bike that has no more than a 20’’ wheel diameter, the allowable limit in the Novice (or beginner) class. Many of our youngest riders even start off on bikes with smaller tires, but whatever you ride around the neighborhood will work to start. If you have a little one under age 5 who rides a balance bike, bring them to the track and they can practice for free.
Practices & Races
• Practices are on Wednesdays from 6 - 8 p.m.
• Races are on Sundays. Registration
begins at 1 p.m. Racing starts around 2 p.m.
• The racing season runs from April to
November, weather permitting.
What to Wear While Racing
• Long sleeve shirt
• Long pants
• Helmet: USA BMX highly recommends a
full-face helmet
• Enclosed shoes: tennis shoes are
recommended
Loaner bikes and gear are available at Star City BMX so don’t feel pressured to purchase equipment right away.
Come see us at the registration area and we’ll help you get started.
Star City BMX
101 Charleston, Lincoln, NE | starcitybmx.com
Find our Star City BMX group on Facebook!
