Whoa Nelly !!!

Pop quiz: Who is the newest "Expert" rider in WI-01?

Hint #1 - he's heavily involved in Milwaukee BMX.

Hint #2 - he's holding a 1st place trophy that he earned at last weekends Redline Cup Qualifier at the Walworth Indoor


Still don't have it?

Okay, okay ... he races a Kuwahara.

Need another? He's got dark hair and is in the photograph above.

C'mon ... you must have it by now !!!

Congratulations Chris Bratz (left) !!! on becoming the latest expert in WI-01.

And, that kid on the right (Dana Mittelstadt) might just be in the process of stepping up his game as well ... any intermediate win is a good one ... but, when you slug it out at a big Walworth Indoor race against a bunch of dudes who all want the same thing you do, and yet you come away with the prize ... that's a good feeling for sure.


PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Watch this for a segue --

The way these two got so fast is all the nights of laps and practice they put in at Milwaukee BMX. If you are ready to step up your game by putting the time in at the track ... contact John Mittelstadt [(414) 429-3585] about our new "SEASON PRACTICE PASS" -- available now for just $40 !!!

With 13 practice nights scheduled in '09 and more that could possibly be added, at a nightly cost of $5 -- that's a potential savings of $25 or more. Practice passes must be purchased by, or for, a valid ABA member.


WHEEL AND SPROCKET BIKE EXPO
Major thanks to Chris Kegal and the crazies over at Wheel and Sprocket for inviting Milwaukee BMX to be among the select clubs represented at their annual State Fair Park Bike Expo at the Exposition Center running from Thursday April 2nd - through Sunday April 5th. Although our primary reason for attending is to promote new rider recruitment for Milwaukee BMX -- we will be well represented at the Expo, with a couple of race bikes on display, schedules from area ABA tracks to hand out and plenty of video for the kids to check out. Come on out and say "hi" ... the event is free ... and we hope to see you there.

If anybody would like to volunteer to sit at our booth and answer questions about Milwaukee BMX and the sport of Bicycle Motocross in general ... we can probably find some time that weekend to get you involved. Please contact John Mittelstadt (414) 429-3485 (mjmittelstadt@yahoo.com) or I (lavacycles@sbcglobal.net) for more details.

News that's almost too good to be true.

For every kid that's ever had their bike stolen ... and knows that sick to your stomach feeling of having your ride disappear ... here's one for the good guys at Good Times. Rick Moliterno is the shop's owner, former Pro Racer, and founder of the Standard Byke Company ... this is the kind of thing that will only add to his legend.



Local BMX legend chases down bike thief 30 years his junior
Posted Online: March 18, 2009, 7:07 pm


Comment on this story Print this story Email this storyBy Brian Krans, bkrans@qconline.com

DAVENPORT — Here's some advice: Don't steal a bike near the Goodtimes Superstore, especially if a pro BMX biker is watching."

I just look out for the kids, regardless," said Rick Moliterno, freestyle BMX legend and owner of Goodtimes and locally made Standard Byke Co. Looking out for the kids includes chasing down a bike thief 30 years his junior.

Sunday afternoon, 15-year-old Trae Edwards was in Mr. Moliterno's shop at 1601 W. Locust St., looking at new pedals for his pieced-together BMX bike. Unable to afford them, he went across the street to a Wendy"s restaurant to grab a sandwich with the few dollars he had. He left his bike unlocked outside the restaurant — a decision he later regretted.

"My girlfriend, Jessie (Smeltzer), saw him from upstairs and thought, ‘Man, he should have left (his bike) at Goodtimes," " Mr. Moliterno said. "A few minutes later, Jessie says, ‘Some kid"s stealing his bike."

"Mr. Moliterno immediately threw on some shoes and grabbed his bike, asking his girlfriend, "What does he look like, and where did he go?"

The thief, described as about 14 years old, had a two-block lead on Mr. Moliterno, 44. But Mr. Moliterno is no slouch on a bike. In the last 30 years he had became famous, first for cutting his teeth on BMX bike tracks and later performing tricks on the streets. "It was kind of funny because the kid just stole a bike across the street from the place bikes are sold and designed, right in front of a guy who makes them," he said.

Karma also stepped in for Mr. Moliterno: one of the pedals Mr. Edwards wanted to replace fell off, slowing the thief's getaway. Mr. Moliterno caught up to the assailant on 14th Street and said firmly, "Hey, I gotta have that bike now. I'm not going to turn you in, just hand it over."The thief complied and left, but not before Mr. Moliterno gave him a bit of advice: "Don't steal bikes, especially BMX bikes.

"Meanwhile, Ms. Smeltzer had picked up Mr. Edwards in a truck. By the time they caught up with Mr. Moliterno, he was towing Mr. Edwards" bike behind his own.

"Rick's a beast," Mr. Edwards said. Mr. Moliterno was just happy he could prevent one more kid from dealing with the heartbreak and anger of getting ripped off. "That feeling is sick," he said. "A lot of bikes get stolen. It's good to get at least one back."

MEETING NOTICE:

What:  General Club Meeting

Where:  Benno's Genuine Bar and Grill

7413 West Greenfield Ave. 

West Allis, WI  

414-453-9094

When:  7 p.m. - Tuesday March 10th

For More Information contact:  John Mittelstadt - 414-429-3485 - mjmittelstadt@yahoo.com

Agenda Items:

• Wheel and Sprocket Bike Expo - April 3-5  (yes, Milwaukee BMX will be there -- thanks Wheel and Sprocket !!!)
  
• Schedule Finalization
  
• Spring Workdays
  
• Promotion and Sponsorships
  

MILWAUKEE BMX 2009 SCHEDULE

ALL TUESDAY RACES IN BLUE
ALL SATURDAY AND SUNDAY RACES IN GREEN
ALL IMPORTANT AWAY DATES IN PURPLE

May:
21 - Thursday Practice
26 - Tuesday Single Point Race
30 - Saturday Single Point Race

June:
2 - Tuesday Single Point Race
4 - Thursday Practice
6-7 - OSHKOSH STATE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER
9 - Tuesday Single Point Race
11 - Thursday Practice
13 - Saturday Double - State Championship Qualifier
16 - Tuesday Single Point Race
18 - Thursday Practice
19-21 - ROCKFORD ABA MIDWEST NATIONAL
23 - Tuesday Single Point Race
25 - Thursday Practice
27-28 - WISCONSIN RAPIDS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER
30 - Tuesday Single Point Race

July:
7 - Tuesday Single Point Race
9 - Thursday Practice
11-12 - FOND DU LAC BMX STATE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER
14 - Tuesday Single Point Race
16 - Thursday Practice
21 - Tuesday Single Point Race
23 - Thursday Practice
25 - Saturday Single Point Race - Race for Life 
25-26 - LAND O' LAKES NATIONAL - MINNESOTA
28 - Tuesday Single Point Race
30 - Thursday Practice

August:
1-2 - RHINELANDER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER
4 - Tuesday Single Point Race
6 - Thursday Practice
11 - Tuesday Single Point Race
13 - Thursday Practice
15-16 - TOADS COVE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER
18 - Tuesday Single Point Race
20 - Thursday Practice
22 - Saturday DOUBLE Point Race & I Raced the Ranch BMX Old School Reunion
25 - Tuesday Single Point Race
27 - Thursday Practice

September & October Saturday Racing TBA

WISCONSIN STATE CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS - Date and Location TBA

Tuesday Race Sign Up: 5:30 - 6:30 Racing ASAP
Saturday & Sunday Race Sign Up: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Racing ASAP
Thursday Practices: 6 - 8 p.m.

Fees
Single Point Races - $10.00
Double Point Races - $20.00
Practice - $5.00

MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL - John Mittelstadt 414-429-3485
Or see us on the web@ Milwaukee BMX.com

Midwest Old School BMX fans -- This is just AWESOME !!!

John Mittelstadt mentioned last night at our general club meeting that he'd stumbled across this old results sheet while scanning an old school BMX site ... and I was intrigued. The SE Rondo Classic was my very first sanctioned race as a squidly 13 novice in 1981. Nothing quite like jumping head first into the deep end of the pool ... but, hey ... that's BMX !!!

These are the results from the 1982 race. Check the 17x class, in which our very own Brian Woods (who's back side I'd seen more of that I care to admit in 2008) finished 3rd! Woods also finished 4th in 15 and over open -- a class that a super quick Southern Michigan kid by the name of Denny Owens won. (today, I have 3 Traker Denny Owens model frames in my 'old school' collection.)

Other names that are familiar to me in these results are Amedio Gilmore (2nd - 16n) who must have been one of the most sandbaggingest 16 novices in the history of BMX as he went on to become a AA pro just 4 years later !!!

Bryan Dickerson's (41-45 cruiser regular & 36+ expert) older brother Bill swept in with a 2nd in 28 and over cruiser

Finally, my personal childhood bud Todd Patz (who I started racing with way back when in Sheboygan), who went on to become a pretty consistent challenger for WI-01 #1 titles in '83 & '84 won the 14 Novice class (and, if memory serves, this is the race that turned him up to expert!)

Just awesome ... if any of you other old schoolers happen to notice anybody else with local ties that I'm missing, shoot me a note and I'll be happy to add them up.

Gate Question Response:

An eagle eyed regular reader of Milwaukee BMX asked what our plans are for a new gate today.

The photo below provides a good idea of the type of new gate we are planning to construct at Milwaukee BMX this spring. Photo was taken at Wisconsin Rapids ... gate is essentially constructed similar to a patio deck.

While we're at it ... suppose we really should congratulate Tina Gillis on winning the State #1 plate she's standing with in the photo.

Meeting Notice:

What: General Club Meeting

Where: Benno’s Genuine Bar and Grill
7413 West Greenfield West Allis, Wisconsin
414-453-9094

When: 7 p.m. - Tuesday February 10th

For more information contact:John Mittelstadt – 414-429-3485 (phone)mjmittelstadt@yahoo.com

Agenda Items:
Promotion and Sponsorships
Schedule Finalization
Track Updates (wishlist)


DONATION ITEMS NEEDED:
In addition to individual cash donations - (tax deductible - contact John Mittelstadt for details) - Milwaukee BMX will put the following items to good use.

1. leave and thatch rakes
2. shovels (spade or flat blade variety)
3. lawnmower (can need fixing ... dull blades, carbeurator rebuild, etc. ... but, please, no blown engines etc.)
4. push brooms
5. grass seed (we'll put it down and see what grows on our infield areas!)

If you are cleaning out your garage this spring and have any of these items to donate, please contact John Mittelstadt (414-429-3485) or I (lavacycles@sbcglobal.net) to let us know what you've got.

Thanks!

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Bicycle Federation of WI is looking for BIKE/WALK Instructors BIKE/WALK Instructors work as seasonal assistant instructors with the Safe Routes to School program. The goal of Safe Routes to School is to increase the number and safety of children walking and biking to school. During the school year (spring and fall), BIKE/WALK Instructors will work with elementary schools to educate and encourage the children to bike and walk to school. During the summer, the program focuses on bicycling around their neighborhoods and BIKE/WALK Instructors will teach and supervise a series of Bike Camps throughout the summer.

The classes in both sections of the program are in depth and teach kids how to bicycle safely on city streets.

Duties:

• Work in teams to teach the Walking Wisdom and Bike Driver’s Ed curriculums in schools and lead on-street neighborhood rides and walks
• Distribute free bicycles to children who successfully complete the program
• Work locations will be scheduled throughout Milwaukee and it will be the responsibility of the Bicycle Education Assistant to arrive at all assigned locations prior to the start time
• Lead bicycle rides with kids throughout the City of Milwaukee
• Maintaining fleet bicycles and assuring that all teaching aids and materials are available
• Assess school area for impediments to walking and biking to school
• Encourage community involvement in Safe Routes to Schools and present the program at community meetings
• Work with schools on encouragement events to get more kids walking and biking
• Serve as a role model to youth
• Office work as necessary

Required Qualifications

• Experience teaching/working with children
• Excellent speaking, writing, and presentation skills
• Value working with diverse people and team teaching
• Enjoy bicycling and be willing to bike to work (we practice what we teach!)
• Must pass background check

Preferred Qualifications:

• Love for bicycling and walking
• Experience with hands-on education
• Bicycle mechanic skills

HOURS:

• 20-35 hrs/wk from April 20th thru October with the possibility of rehire for the next year. Hours will generally be scheduled between 9am and 6pm on weekdays.

This is a part time, limited term, hourly position with no benefits. All necessary training will be paid. COMPENSATION: $10 per hour.

DEADLINE:
Applications must be received by March 6th, 2009. The Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin (BFW) is an equal opportunity employer and a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is "To make Wisconsin a better place to bicycle!". We are a growing non-profit that is growing to get more people biking.

For more information on the program, visit www.bfw.org.

TO APPLY: MAIL OR EMAIL RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO: Jacob Newborn, Project Coordinator Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin 1845 N Farwell, Suite 100 Milwaukee, WI 53202 jacob.newborn@bfw.org,

Questions? Call 414-271-9685 or visit www.bfw.org

2008 FINAL DISTRICT POINTS POSTED AT WWW.ABABMX.COM



Milwaukee BMX Riders, please click the image below to go to the final 2008 district points standings at www.ABABMX.com Please note that the position you are listed in is your district number for 2009. Congratulations to all Wisconsin 01 District #1 Plate Earners!

• BOYS: Ben Kohls 17-18 Expert
• GIRLS: Hailey Dickerson 15
• CRUISER: Bryan Dickerson 45 Cruiser
• GIRLS CRUISER: Roxanne Schneider 17-20

Breaking BMX News !!!

ABA and NBC Universal Sign Deal to Televise BMX Racing Events in 2009:

Gilbert, Arizona- January 21, 2009— The American Bicycle Association and NBC Universal Sports are proud to announce an exclusive four year agreement to televise ABA events and the 2009 UCI Continental events.

The ABA is experiencing steady growth in membership and will continue growing and building upon the great success of BMX racing`s 2008 Olympic debut. The ABA and NBC Universal Sports will deliver over 20 hours of programming per year for the next four years to an ever growing NBC Universal Sports audience of over 40 million homes. With BMX emerging as the newest Olympic action sport in 2008, and with the American’s claiming three of the first six BMX Olympic medals ever awarded, the ABA is poised for tremendous growth leading up to the 2012 Olympics in London.

The televised race series will focus on the UCI events to be hosted at the following ABA National events

• ABA Sooner Nationals, Guthrie, OK January 22-24, 2009A \
• ABA Southern California Nationals, Lake Perris, CA February 6-8, 2009
• ABA Gator Nationals, Oldsmar, FL February 20-22, 2009
• ABA Winter Nationals, Phoenix, AZ March 6-8, 2009
• ABA Super Nationals, Desoto, TX March 20, 2009
• USAC National Championships, Desoto, TX March 21, 2009
• ABA Super Nationals, Desoto, TX March 22, 2009
• ABA First State nationals, Milford, DE June 12-14, 2009
• ABA Mid West Nationals, Rockford, IL June 19-21, 2009
  

“It has been a pleasure to work with BA and the rest of the ABA staff on the organization and execution of the 2009 UCI event calendar,” said Steve Johnson, CEO of USA Cycling. “These events represent the top level of international BMX racing in America and are a critical link in our athlete development pipeline. USA Cycling is very pleased to be involved with such a progressive organization to bring international-level BMX racing to the United States.

The ABA has been dedicated to the sport of BMX racing for more than 32 years, and has a clear vision of the future. With this type of exposure for BMX racing in America, I’m confident that the ABA will continue to assist in the development of world-class athletes who eventually represent the United States in international competition around the globe.”

"We are very excited to expose the sport of BMX racing to NBC Universal`s 40 million homes, this agreement will continue to fuel the growth we have experienced since Beijing,” said B.A. Anderson, American Bicycle Association’s Chief Executive Officer. “The ABA has dedicated over 32 years to BMX racing and now that we are an Olympic sport we have a responsibility to our members and the country to make sure that our athletes are the best in the world,” Anderson added.

The ABA is also pleased announce that Hyper Bicycles has signed on as Title Sponsor of the first UCI Continental event to take place this weekend in Guthrie, OK. “Exposure is key for growing our sport,” said Clay Goldsmid, owner of Hyper Bicycles. "Getting the thrills and spills of BMX racing into the living rooms of America is a very exciting prospect. We think this could be a monumental step for the future of BMX. We’re excited to have this opportunity to team-up with the ABA and NBC Universal Sports to be a part of it,” Goldsmid continued.

“On the heels of such an amazing debut for BMX Racing in the 2008 Olympic Games, I am so grateful that ABA BMX, along with NBC, will be allowing many more kids and parents to witness what an all-around great sport BMX Racing is,” stated Hyper Bicycles 2008 Olympic Bronze Medalist Donny Robinson. “As a racer, what more can I ask for than a four year televised series? This is unprecedented in BMX Racing and will allow the public to be involved and follow all the pressure-filled qualifications leading up to the London 2012 Games.”

More Moto-Photo

With all the quality racing we had in 2008, it wasn't hard to come by a bunch of good photos ... and, we've got a good stash of them that haven't yet been published. We'll try to keep 'em coming during these long, cold months of winter.


Easily one of my favorite shots of the entire season -- but, the snapshot quality of my Kodak digital camera never quite seemed to do it justice. If I was a photographer worth my salt, I would pack a digital SLR so I could create a very narrow depth of field, drop the shutter speed and pan like my life depended on it to keep up with speedy Jared Engelhart in this image. Jared's full Troy Lee uniform tinted goggles and very clean bike make him look absolutely pro ... good stuff.


Colin Kohls and Brad Olson, elbows up and tradin' paint. A BMX moment to remember for these two ... who are good buds on and off the track.



Yeah, it was good to see Olajuwan Davis at our State Championship Qualifier race ... as you can see here ... dude was killing it ... and when I say he had the first straight dialed beyond belief ... I mean it. He was pretty consistently tapping the brakes down into the first corner as he was carrying so much speed.

BREAKING NEWS !!! (reprinted from the Small Business Times 1 / 16/ 2009)

Chicago committee chooses Madison as cycling hub for Olympic bid

Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle today announced that Madison has been selected as the cycling hub for Chicago's bid to host the 2016 Summer Olympic Games. "Not only is Madison a great place to live, it's the nation's premier area for bike riding," Doyle said. "I am pleased that the Chicago 2016 Committee has chosen Madison to be its cycling hub and can't wait for people from around the world to discover our beautiful region."

Chicago 2016 has consistently placed athletes at the center of our Games plan," said Patrick Ryan, chairman and chief executive officer of Chicago 2016. "Our constituents emphasized their desire for technical and challenging courses, and we believe that the natural terrain found in Madison will exceed their expectations and make for an ideal competitive environment."

To select an ideal venue, the bid committee worked collaboratively with cycling experts, Olympic athletes and the International Cycling Union (UCI) to select courses that are technically challenging and conducive to high-level competition.

The Wisconsin Road Cycling Course would begin on the campus of the University of Wisconsin at Madison, head east through downtown and feature several steep climbs near the finish line in Blue Mound State Park.

The Wisconsin Mountain Bike Circuit would take place in Tyrol Basin, a popular ski and snowboard destination in the winter that makes for a technically challenging course that meets the needs of the athletes while allowing for a great spectator experience during the Games. Madison has one of the most extensive bike trail systems in the United States.

Wisconsin's reputation as a major cycling destination accounts for its $800 million bicycle tourism industry. Pacific Cycle, Trek and Saris, three of the industry's leading companies, are headquartered in the Madison area.
_______________________________________________________

Editor's Note: No mention of the Bicycle Motocross venue ... but, it's a safe bet that will also be proposed for the Madison area. In any event ... this is an exciting day for all of Wisconsin's cyclists to be sure !!!

Kevin O'

Please Support those that Support the Sport:

Not that we want to spend much time talkin' politics here at Milwaukee BMX ... but recently passed consumer protection legislation impacts our sport in a negative way through the required CPSC test of every unique component a manufacturer produces (both finish and construction materials). This testing will potentially add significant end costs to participants in the sport of BMX.

The recently passed legislation lumps BMX bicycles in with items such as die-cast cars and other small toys (which were produced off-shore and shipped to the United States with unacceptable amounts of lead in their finishes) by designating all bicycles with 24" or smaller wheels (or, roughly 98% of all bikes you'll ever see at a BMX track) as "toys".

To that end, there is an online petition being circulated that will be presented to CPSC with the intent to modify the law and designate BMX racing bicycles as "sporting goods equipment" and therefore exempt them from the agency's costly testing processes.

We hope you will consider joining us in signing this petition.

I added the following note to my signature:

"With all due respect to CPSC's intent to protect the health and well being of our children through mandated testing of items designated as "toys" … we believe the legislation recently passed is too sweeping with regard to the current definition of all bicycles with 24” or smaller wheels considered “toys”. Added to the 2008 Olympic Games as a medal sport, the Bicycle Motocross event was contested by the finest cycling athletes on earth, competing on bicycles with 20” wheels. We hope you will find a means to delineate between bicycles intended for “competition” vs. those consumed by the general public. "

Thank you for your consideration and support in this important matter.

Kevin O'Donnell

Holy Long Overdue Posts - Batman !!!
This might be the longest of long overdue posts in the history of MilwaukeeBMX.com. But, here are some great shots taken from over the summer and submitted about a month ago by Tina Gillis on behalf of photograher John Katner.


There's just something groovy about this late afternoon shot of Dan Blink, Brad Olson, Brennon Manske and an unidentified rider on the gate at Milwaukee BMX. I guess maybe it's because of the chill vibe these riders are giving off. Milwaukee's relaxed attitude is something you really begin to appreciate the more you travel around from track to track.



Twilight flag bearer - Ben Kohls.



Kohls again, this time surrounded by Groms that all dream of someday having his speed, style and skills.

Going fast and getting just a bit tweaked ... if you ask Ben ... the sideways in this shot is probably about scrubbing speed. Yup, I'm jealous !!!

There aren't many gals lining up to hit up our track in the 36-40 women's cruiser class. Tina Gillis doesn't just gate up ... she gets out there and absolutely kills it.

Pictures in black and white always let you see things that aren't nearly as obvious in color. For instance, look to the immediate left of Tina's hip ... and then to the immediate left of the middle of her back. What I see is two really grooved lanes in teh second turn that I had never realized were there before. Cool.

Peyton Dickerson, obviously on a practice lap and coasting through Milwaukee's second turn.

Dan Blink, at much altitude, little turn bar and seriously eyeing up his landing spot. Sitting in a flourescent lit office at 4:30 on a friday afternoon in Early January and realizing that it's nearly dark out already ... it's easy to float off into one of a million or more riding dreams while staring at this photo.

Eric Hahn is my second pick "most improved" rider in 2008. He'd be number one, except ...(scroll down)

Jacob Hinzpeter has become such a dialed rider that I don't think anybody ... and I mean even me ... got a bad photograph of the kid all season long at Milwaukee. This shot is a metaphor, because, for this young guy, the sky is the limit in BMX.

Who would believe that Bryan Dickerson "bumps up" to the 46-50 cruiser class in 2009? He's one of several riders at Milwaukee that were among the early pioneers in the sport ... and totally trashing conventional wisdoms about athletic output and aging. It's easy for me to remember the "old man" cruiser classes in the early 1980's ... Dads in their late 20's and early 30's who couldn't hold a candle to the type of riding that Dickerson is delivering each and every time he racks up today. Good on, ya, Bryan.

Yup, Chris Brotz got bit by the BMX bug real hard this summer. His riding continues to improve ... and his interest in the sport is about to carry him beyond competitor. Chris is going to be helping out more and more at Milwaukee BMX ... and we're super lucky to have him on board.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS NOMINATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED!

Milwaukee BMX seeks your nominations for the following positions for Board of Directors for the 2009 season. These are all "working" positions, and nominees will accept the responsibility of working at the majority of events in the 2009 season. Please be sure that those you would like to nominate are willing to accept the responsibilty and will take their positions seriously.

Please call or e-mail John Mittelstadt at MJMittelstadt@Yahoo.com or 414-429-3485 -- or e-mail Kevin O'Donnell at lavacycles@SBCGlobal.net with your nominations.

These are our ideal recommended positions per discussions with other tracks and as discussed at our last club meeting in November. This list may continue to evolve prior to the beginning of the 2009 racing season.

Voting for the new board will take place at the January 6th club meeting at Benno's in West Allis.

• President – Face of Milwaukee BMX – this individual will be the primarily responsible for building good will toward Milwaukee BMX in the surrounding community through solicitation of other community service groups including, but not limited to – Chamber of Commerce organizations, Business Improvement Districts, seeking opportunities for “non-traditional” marketing (ie parades, bicycle shows, etc.) Provide oversight and guidance for strategic initiatives implemented by the club.
• Treasurer – Oversee the financial operations of Milwaukee BMX. Report on budget at all Milwaukee BMX meetings. Cut checks for track operator and make deposits from individual donations and underwriting and advertising sales. Balance accounts.
• Secretary / Sergeant at Arms – schedule board member meetings and publish meeting agendas in advance, along with recording and distributing meeting minutes to BOD.
• Track Operator – Direct oversight of all track operations ranging from volunteer recruitment and training, to race day staffing (registration, sign ups, new rider orientation, staging, starting, corner workers and scoring) and operation. Will need be present at 80% of Milwaukee BMX racing and practice events. Procure event awards. Oversee team competition.
• Communications / PR / Marketing – Provides publicity and promotional efforts for Milwaukee BMX. Website maintenance, as press liaison make media contacts, assist in new rider recruitment, sell underwriting and advertising and encourage sponsor participation in Milwaukee BMX activities.
• Assistant Track Operator – Director of Track Layout / Maintenance – In addition to collaborating with track operator to oversee track layout, preparation and volunteer coordination – will oversee operation of 20% of racing and practice events.
• Concessions – Responsible for staffing race day events and maintaining food and beverage supplies. Also responsible for setting pricing and working with club treasurer to assure that there is adequate profit margins.
• Youth Representative / Liasion - Will be one of our regular race competitors who demonstrates leadership skills and is inclined toward volunteerism. Will help recruit and train along with the director of track layout and maintenance to assist with raking, sweeping, cleanup, etc. Additionally will act as "new rider orientation" person. All new registrants will be offered the opportunity to walk through the registration process, reading a moto board, staging, etc. and learn basic track skills from this individual.

National #1 Girl Cruiser !!!

If you are a regular reader of MilwaukeeBMX.com, then you know that I recently published a column following the results of some of the competitors who have hit up Milwaukee BMX througout the year. And, to my credit ... I must have done okay, because I didn't receive a whole lot of corrections. One that I did miss, however, and it's a biggie ... because we're talking ABA National #1 Girls Cruiser ... which went to Felicia Stancil.






Jamie Stancil sent this photo of Felicia with her sweet new ride that she picked up after decimating her class and taking the national title. Can you say, "Brrraaaappppp !!!"



Just awesome, Felicia. Congratulations!

Local Riders Grands Results

Big props to the following riders who did super well at the Grands.

Tina Gillis, a regular competitor in our cruiser classes (probably 3 times out of 5 she's gating up against the guys for lack of a full women's class) made her mains in both the Friday night Race of Champions, finishing 3rd in a group of 5 ... and then backing that up with a solid run at the grands, where she finished 5th out of 9 women in the class. She was also the only "privateer" unsponsored rider in the main -- far out !!!


Tina relayed that the sweet new Fly uniform was more of a necessity than a luxury. "I left all my gear at home by accident, So I had to get to the track at 6 am on Practice day and BUY all new stuff from helmet to clip shoes!!! With 5 min to spare I made it to Practice at 7am!!!" Gillis said after returning home.

That's amazing, Tina ... way to keep your cool ... and look good while you were doing it.

Other local riders that went on through to their mains were Kenosha's Curt Zizzo in 36-40 cruiser class ... which had a huge group of more than 30 riders that he fought his way through to qualify.

Dan Tritz, who occassionally runs Milwaukee finished 5th in both 14 cruiser and the ultra tough 14 expert class ... that's an awesome accomplishment ... team managers, take notice.

Felicia Stancil, the first girl in the history of Milwaukee BMX to jump our "big set" of doubles at the end of the first straight took down a nice win in 13 girls.

Sun Ringle sponsored Desiree Roeder nabbed a 3rd in the 14 girls class.

Sussex NAG powerhouse, Cory Caliendo came home with a 3rd in 13 cruiser (sure would be good to see you at Milwaukee sometime, kid!)

and Troy Krause of APEX BMX (Oshkosh) made his main in class.

Bryan Dickerson missed mains in both cruiser and class by one spot, finishing 5th in both of his semis despite having the track dialed and riding some super fast laps all weekend. In 41-45 cruiser, there were more than 40 riders signed up!

Congratulations to all the other local riders who made the trip ... we were watching almost all weekend.

Click Here for LIVE ABA Grand Nationals Coverage  SUNDAY

Once there, you can set up a profile for yourself and then get live - streaming coverage from Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Today's coverage includes 3rd Round Motos - Quarter Mains - Semi Mains and Mains.

National Champions will be crowned today.

How will our favorite local riders do?  We'll find out !!!

Far as I can tell, so far (through early in the third round) --

Bryan Dickerson has advanced in both cruiser and class

Ed Morris has advanced in both cruiser and class

Curt Zizzo has advanced in cruiser and class

Jacob Hinzpeter is through in cruiser

Happy Thanksgiving

So, what are you thankful for at the beginning of this holiday season. I have many things that easily come to mind ... but, somewhere near the top of that list would have to be the many great friends I've made throughout the years of involvement with Milwaukee BMX. I appreciate your help and continued support - volunteers, sponsors, moms and dads and enjoy immensely watching the kids having fun with the sport of Bicycle Motocross. It's what keeps us goin' over here. You guys keep ridin' and we'll keep trying to keep the races coming.

Kevin O'

Hot Shots:

Local superhero Ben Kohls dropped his cape just long enough to have these jump shots taken last fall at Milwaukee BMX. Lighting is pretty moody ... and the style is typical Ben ... always the showman.

ABA GRANDS NEWS:

The INTENSE BMX PIT BIKE CHALLENGE-

This year for the first time ever we'll have 16 specially prepared 16” Intense pit bikes added to the nights entertainment. All 16 qualified riders will be entered into two 8 man semi-main taking the top four to the Intense Pit Bike Challenge Main event. How do I qualify you ask? During Friday's R.O.C. event there will be lots going up stairs in the manufacturer and vendor areas as always. This year the Sun Bru crew will helping both Intense BMX and ABA BMX out with running a couple of scheduled qualifying sessions up stairs. You'll need to bring your pit bike, then stop by the Sun Bru booth for all the details about getting qualified for the Friday night Intense Pit Bike Challenge!

The Side-hack Challenge-

Come one, come all. If you've never seen the hacks race, it’s a site to behold. It’s a no holds bar crash and bash fest and the fans love it! Last year we added them to the Friday Night excitement and it went over really well. With a few more it should even be better. Roseville still holds the record of 17 hacks thus far, but things look good for the Friday Night event to break all records. If you've got a hack bring it on down. Didn't make the NAG 5 cut?? Well, this is YOUR chance to be involved in the big show! All hackers must be ABA members to compete. Other then that bring your hack and your best monkey to represent your team, track, or company and you are qualified!

Rockin' the "HOLESHOT"

Kelley Kelley (professional songwriter/producer, father of twins, and long time BMX racer), will be in the house rockin it out with his new song "HOLESHOT". If you haven't had a chance to here his song you can swing by myspace page and check it out. www.myspace.com/kelleykelleymusic or stop by www.go211.com to see an interview that rich and the gang did with him.

Kelley Kelley is pumped to perform "HOLESHOT" Live at BMX racing's biggest party/event, the ABA BMX Grand Nationals Friday Night PRO Spectacular. Rumor has it, he’s been cookin’ up a “special” METAL re-mix of his song just for the ABA Grands event!


More Fire Magic Grills to Give-A-Way!

All season long we've been hosting the Fire Magic Grill off series and it’s been awesome! I haven't eaten so good in a long, long time. All season long you've been racing the ABA National series and a select few classes have been chosen to be awarded another Fire Magic Grill.

Eligible Classes are as follows-

28-35 men
36 & Over men
26-60 Cruiser men and women
31-35 Cruiser men and women
36-40 Cruiser men and women
41-45 Cruiser men and women
46-50 Cruiser men and women
51-55 Cruiser men
56 and over Cruiser men

If you are in the N.AG.. 10 after the Disney Cup event and coming into the ABA Grands you are eligible for this Fire Magic Grill drawing so be sure to be there just in case you’re name gets pulled out of the hat! We'll also be drawing a winner from all the left over entries form the Fire Magic Grill off events earlier this season. So, if you entered at one of the grill offs, but didn't win, you still have a shot at another Fire Magic Grill!


More Olympian medalist at the ABA Grands!

You saw 2008 Olympic Bronze medal winner “dR” Donny Robinson in Reno, NV. You saw 2008 Olympic Silver medal winner Mike Day in Lancaster, CA. Now Team USA rider and 2008 Olympic Bronze medalist Jill Kintner will be in the house Friday Night. ABA BMX has been rewarding the Olympic medalist for all their hard work in the 2008 Olympics for the Team USA. Donny and Mike have already been presented their reward.. Now it’s Jill’s turn. Jill will be on hand for her special recognition reward Friday night, so if you'd like to see Jill and give her a bi thanks be sure to be there Friday night!


As always I'm sure the Go-4-It Gopher will be in the house mixing things up for the fans on Friday night. If you've got a mascot that can take the Go-4-It gopher, he says bring it on! We'll have lots of T-shirts to toss for the fans from all your favorite companies, the Sun Bru girls will be on hand for the fans as well. I'm sure there will be more excitement to the event then what’s been listed. Crazy things always seemed to pop up at this event and we expect this year to be better then ever! We hope everyone has a great trip out to the ABA BMX Grands and we hope to see everyone at the Friday Night PRO Spectacular/NAG 5 Challenge event!

ABA BMX would like to thank all the 2008 National Series sponsors:

American Suzuki-(http://www.suzukicycles.com/ ) Dan’s Comp (http://www.danscomp.com/)
Jig-A-Loo-(http://www.jigaloo.com/) BAWLS Guarana (http://www.bawls.com/) Bawlstyle (http://www.bawlstyle.com/)Redline Bicycles-(http://www.redlinebicycles.com/) FLY Racing-(http://www.flyracingbmx.com/) Sponsorhouse-(http://www.sponsorhouse.com/) Tangent-(http://www.tangentproducts.com/) ABABMXRACERS- (http://www.ababmxracers.com/) Intense BMX-(http://www.intensebmx.com/) T.H.E. (http://www.bmxthe.com/) Fire Magic Premium Grills (www.rhpeterson.com/firemagic/) Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex (http://www.disneysports.com/) GO211.com (http://www.go211.com/)

Without their support, we couldn't make the 2008 ABA racing season such a huge success. Support the sponsors that support ABA BMX racing.

Milwaukee BMX (cycling club) Meeting Notice

What:
General Club Meeting

Where:
Benno’s Genuine Bar and Grill
7413 West GreenfieldWest Allis, Wisconsin414-453-9094

When:
7 p.m. - Tuesday November 18th

For more information contact:
John Mittelstadt – 414-429-3485 (phone)
mjmittelstadt@yahoo.com

Primary Agenda Item:
Formation of Milwaukee BMX Board of Directors
We will present our thoughts on the formation of a Milwaukee BMX Board of Directors based on recent conversations with Central Wisconsin BMX (Wisconsin Rapids).

If there is consensus among members present that a Board of Directors is something we want to pursue, we will begin the process of identifying board positions and taking nominations to fill those positions.

Please plan to attend if you are interested in the future of Milwaukee BMX.

Kevin O'Donnell