Humongo thanks to Tammi Schulz (I think - as Brian Schulz forwarded these pics) for sending these.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
BMX in Milwaukee is getting better ... but, we've still got a ways to go.
Yeah, so maybe the world is larger than our little Bicycle Motocross track, we all get that (although, with the amount of time that we've spent with the venture, there are, no doubt, some of our family members that would make the case that some of us seem to think that out little BMX track is at the center of the universe). Anyway, Bicycle Motocross is surely more than just about racing. So I was particularly interested to find this article about a public use skate / bicycle park being planned for Hart Park in Wauwatosa. This thing may be a few years off, but, with strength in numbers, it's absolutely cool to see the cooperation between skaters and bikers in trying to pull this thing together. I have contacted one of the members of Tosa Skateboarders United to lend our support to their cause. And, because ... I had another big old idea.
The Sandlot
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about Bicycle Motocross and its major rise and fall in the number of active participants. I recall when I was a kid that there were several riding areas I could hit on any given day. Some were "sandlot" type open lot tracks, others big huck jumps and some were street riding obstacles -- in school yards, at churches, shopping facilities and parking lots. The street stuff really remains the same today. But, I can't think of a single "sandlot" type track in the Milwaukee area.
I quizzed my friend, Chris Reimer, who many of you know from Ware's Cyclery, if he had heard of anything good in this area. Chris could think of nothing ... zip, zero, nadda. No doubt ... this explains why we've released such a powder keg of pent up Bicycle Motocross energy with the Crystal Ridge track.
The practice track that Bryan Dickerson built in Hartford with the support of the Hartford Parks department is definitely the closest to what I'm thinking about. It's the type of place that kids can hit at pretty much whenever they are moved to do so. If there is more than one kid there ... it's probably a safe bet, that just like when I rode those spots with my little buddies 25 years ago, an informal race is going to break out. How many of us followed the same path into racing? Kill it on the "sand lot" track until we discover a kid with a "real" racing BMX bike. Maybe meet that kid and learn about the "real" racing that goes on at the "real" track he goes to every weekend. Maybe that kid's got a mom or dad who realizes that getting new kids into the sport is what will help it grow. Mr. Sandlot upstart hitches a ride out to the race track and probably gets really hooked ... really quickly. Luckily for him ... he's got some speed and more than a few skills in his pocket from his riding at the sand lot track.
We need more practice tracks
So many people associated with bicycle motocross automatically jump to the conclusion that we need more tracks. I think a legitimate argument can be made that, for the moment, at least, there are already enough. There is almost constant discussion of low moto counts around the nation. What we could really use, eh, is more riders. In the 80's ... formal race tracks popped up everywhere. There were probably more than a dozen tracks in Wisconsin in the hay-days of BMX. But, as more tracks popped up ... the informal riding areas went away. When the first crop of racers got old enough to get their licenses and moved on to other activities (sure do wish I had just stayed on the bike!), the fresh crop of "sandlot" kids wasn't there to replace them.
Take a good look at this kid. He's either 7 or 8 ... and won the time trial at Hartford recently for his age group. The bike is obviously too big for him, and far too heavy ... but, dang if he doesn't look like a very young Stu Thomsen in this shot. Since he's got a place to ride, and some ability, I fully expect that a sharp eyed reader (with a really good memory ... obviously not me) may be able to pick him out at the races in Milwaukee someday.
Without the practice track, or the time trial, is this same kid even interested in riding? Would he ever have a chance of becoming a racer at our track if Bryan not made the effort to get the Hartford track started? Moreover, would this young guy, or his parents, have been able to muster the courage to take him straight to Rockford, or Fond du Lac, or Oshkosh, and throw down $45 for a membership for him to be able to "compete against" (read, get smoked by) experienced kids who have had plenty of track time?
Bryan told me that the track, which he and Todd Zimmerman are primarly responsible for constructing, likely cost the city much less than a thousand dollars. In 2006 dollars, a municipality can't even purchase a decent swingset for that kind of money. This should be a no brainer. A practice track is a minimal impact proposition with regard to the environment and economics. However, the social impact is substantial.
Yeah, so maybe the world is larger than our little Bicycle Motocross track, we all get that (although, with the amount of time that we've spent with the venture, there are, no doubt, some of our family members that would make the case that some of us seem to think that out little BMX track is at the center of the universe). Anyway, Bicycle Motocross is surely more than just about racing. So I was particularly interested to find this article about a public use skate / bicycle park being planned for Hart Park in Wauwatosa. This thing may be a few years off, but, with strength in numbers, it's absolutely cool to see the cooperation between skaters and bikers in trying to pull this thing together. I have contacted one of the members of Tosa Skateboarders United to lend our support to their cause. And, because ... I had another big old idea.
The Sandlot
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about Bicycle Motocross and its major rise and fall in the number of active participants. I recall when I was a kid that there were several riding areas I could hit on any given day. Some were "sandlot" type open lot tracks, others big huck jumps and some were street riding obstacles -- in school yards, at churches, shopping facilities and parking lots. The street stuff really remains the same today. But, I can't think of a single "sandlot" type track in the Milwaukee area.
I quizzed my friend, Chris Reimer, who many of you know from Ware's Cyclery, if he had heard of anything good in this area. Chris could think of nothing ... zip, zero, nadda. No doubt ... this explains why we've released such a powder keg of pent up Bicycle Motocross energy with the Crystal Ridge track.
The practice track that Bryan Dickerson built in Hartford with the support of the Hartford Parks department is definitely the closest to what I'm thinking about. It's the type of place that kids can hit at pretty much whenever they are moved to do so. If there is more than one kid there ... it's probably a safe bet, that just like when I rode those spots with my little buddies 25 years ago, an informal race is going to break out. How many of us followed the same path into racing? Kill it on the "sand lot" track until we discover a kid with a "real" racing BMX bike. Maybe meet that kid and learn about the "real" racing that goes on at the "real" track he goes to every weekend. Maybe that kid's got a mom or dad who realizes that getting new kids into the sport is what will help it grow. Mr. Sandlot upstart hitches a ride out to the race track and probably gets really hooked ... really quickly. Luckily for him ... he's got some speed and more than a few skills in his pocket from his riding at the sand lot track.
We need more practice tracks
So many people associated with bicycle motocross automatically jump to the conclusion that we need more tracks. I think a legitimate argument can be made that, for the moment, at least, there are already enough. There is almost constant discussion of low moto counts around the nation. What we could really use, eh, is more riders. In the 80's ... formal race tracks popped up everywhere. There were probably more than a dozen tracks in Wisconsin in the hay-days of BMX. But, as more tracks popped up ... the informal riding areas went away. When the first crop of racers got old enough to get their licenses and moved on to other activities (sure do wish I had just stayed on the bike!), the fresh crop of "sandlot" kids wasn't there to replace them.
Take a good look at this kid. He's either 7 or 8 ... and won the time trial at Hartford recently for his age group. The bike is obviously too big for him, and far too heavy ... but, dang if he doesn't look like a very young Stu Thomsen in this shot. Since he's got a place to ride, and some ability, I fully expect that a sharp eyed reader (with a really good memory ... obviously not me) may be able to pick him out at the races in Milwaukee someday.
Without the practice track, or the time trial, is this same kid even interested in riding? Would he ever have a chance of becoming a racer at our track if Bryan not made the effort to get the Hartford track started? Moreover, would this young guy, or his parents, have been able to muster the courage to take him straight to Rockford, or Fond du Lac, or Oshkosh, and throw down $45 for a membership for him to be able to "compete against" (read, get smoked by) experienced kids who have had plenty of track time?
Bryan told me that the track, which he and Todd Zimmerman are primarly responsible for constructing, likely cost the city much less than a thousand dollars. In 2006 dollars, a municipality can't even purchase a decent swingset for that kind of money. This should be a no brainer. A practice track is a minimal impact proposition with regard to the environment and economics. However, the social impact is substantial.
So, I've contacted Tosa Skateboarders United and I'm planning to start attending the Wauwatosa park commission meetings ... wish me luck ... I'm certainly late to the dance with my request ... but, I'm motivated and willing to give it a shot.
More Thanks
Boy, in all the excitment of thanking the riders, the politicians, the volunteers, et al, I sorta forgot to thank one of the major supporters of the day. Sun-Ringle threw a bunch of swag our way and didn't even require the "persuasion" of Fred Yanke's alter ego, Hackett. Props to the Sun-Ringle crew for the help the support provided ... their product is some of the best on the market. Now, I know ... they gave us stuff ... so, of course I'd endorse the goods. Here's the thing ... I've been buying and running Ringle stuff on my bike, paying retail for years. The strongest endorsement for any part in Bicycle Motocross comes from those who pay retail for it. I run Sun Rhyno Lite rims and Ringle Zu Zu platform pedals.
Kevin O'
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Thank you ... thank you ... thank you !!!
To all the riders who participated in yesterday's "open house" ride at Milwaukee BMX. We just built the track ... it's you guys who are going to make it stick ... and we're super stoked at the amount of support you showed yesterday. Yeah, it's been super hard work ... but, the payoff was yesterday. Watching the first group of 8 and under swoop down into the first turn gave me goose bumps.
The smiles on the faces of John, Michelle, Dana and Leah Mittelstadt, Fred Yanke, Todd Zimmerman, Jason Leikam, my wife Denise and I (the volunteers on hand yesterday) were completely formed by pride.
Sadly, my camera was left at home, so, if anybody has pictures you want to share ... forward them to kevin.odonnell@zdg.com and I'll gladly post them up.
What's Next?
A few of you asked John when we can do this again. Just as soon as we know more, we'll let you guys know as well. We are going to keep the ball moving, however, and work on procurring a gate begins on Monday.
We are tentatively scheduling a practice for ABA members this Wednesday night while we are continue work on the track. Mountain bikers will be welcome to join on an ABA one day membership or encouraged to sign up for a full ABA membership. Practice fees will again be $5 per rider and you can ride from six until dark. ABA rules in effect, helmets, bike pads, and long sleeve shirts and pants or appropriate safety gear will be enforced. Riders who are under 18 will need parental or guardian release as part to sign up for the one day membership.
Closed track:
The track BMX track at Crystal Ridge designated a closed track, and we want all of you to know that you can be ticketed for trespassing if caught riding any time that is not an sanctioned ABA event. A closed track wasn't our choice, but, it's what we've got ... so, please respect it so that we can keep building the sport in our community.
Thanks again for all of your support and cooperation.
Local Riders win Factory Trophy for DirectLink at Land of Lincoln Nationals:
Bryan Dickerson reports that DirectLink won the factory trophy at the Land of Lincoln Nationals in Brighton Illinois. Local DirectLink riders include the Dickersons (Bryan, Payton, Hailey and Abby), Curt Zizzo, Tim Eiring, and Randy Behnke. Great job guys. DirectLink is planning to host a training clinic at Milwaukee BMX.
Kevin O'
Kevin O'
To all the riders who participated in yesterday's "open house" ride at Milwaukee BMX. We just built the track ... it's you guys who are going to make it stick ... and we're super stoked at the amount of support you showed yesterday. Yeah, it's been super hard work ... but, the payoff was yesterday. Watching the first group of 8 and under swoop down into the first turn gave me goose bumps.
The smiles on the faces of John, Michelle, Dana and Leah Mittelstadt, Fred Yanke, Todd Zimmerman, Jason Leikam, my wife Denise and I (the volunteers on hand yesterday) were completely formed by pride.
Sadly, my camera was left at home, so, if anybody has pictures you want to share ... forward them to kevin.odonnell@zdg.com and I'll gladly post them up.
What's Next?
A few of you asked John when we can do this again. Just as soon as we know more, we'll let you guys know as well. We are going to keep the ball moving, however, and work on procurring a gate begins on Monday.
We are tentatively scheduling a practice for ABA members this Wednesday night while we are continue work on the track. Mountain bikers will be welcome to join on an ABA one day membership or encouraged to sign up for a full ABA membership. Practice fees will again be $5 per rider and you can ride from six until dark. ABA rules in effect, helmets, bike pads, and long sleeve shirts and pants or appropriate safety gear will be enforced. Riders who are under 18 will need parental or guardian release as part to sign up for the one day membership.
Closed track:
The track BMX track at Crystal Ridge designated a closed track, and we want all of you to know that you can be ticketed for trespassing if caught riding any time that is not an sanctioned ABA event. A closed track wasn't our choice, but, it's what we've got ... so, please respect it so that we can keep building the sport in our community.
Thanks again for all of your support and cooperation.
Local Riders win Factory Trophy for DirectLink at Land of Lincoln Nationals:
Bryan Dickerson reports that DirectLink won the factory trophy at the Land of Lincoln Nationals in Brighton Illinois. Local DirectLink riders include the Dickersons (Bryan, Payton, Hailey and Abby), Curt Zizzo, Tim Eiring, and Randy Behnke. Great job guys. DirectLink is planning to host a training clinic at Milwaukee BMX.
Kevin O'
Kevin O'
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING EVENTS:
Wednesday 8/16 evening: Rake, water and roll and finish spectator fence
Friday 8/18 evening: clean track area, rake, water, and roll - chalk line track
Saturday 8/19: volunteers arrive at track @ 9 a.m. - Riders arrive at 11. Open practice from 11-1 p.m. by various age groups. Riding and racing demonstration (no starting gate) from 1-3 p.m. Please bring your ABA membership info.
Wednesday 8/16 evening: Rake, water and roll and finish spectator fence
Friday 8/18 evening: clean track area, rake, water, and roll - chalk line track
Saturday 8/19: volunteers arrive at track @ 9 a.m. - Riders arrive at 11. Open practice from 11-1 p.m. by various age groups. Riding and racing demonstration (no starting gate) from 1-3 p.m. Please bring your ABA membership info.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Saturday August 12 - WORK DAY !!!
We'll be working tomorrow, weather is supposed to be good and we should really be able to make some essential progress toward track completion. Bring rakes, shovels ... and your bikes. If we get far enough we should be back to ridable by the end of the day.
Hartford Time Trial Report
Bryan Dickerson remains the track record holder at the Hartford practice track, and deservedly so. He built it, he maintains it, and helps organize the annual time trial put on by the City of Hartford parks department. My son Dane and I were stoked to be able to compete. Dane and Jason Leikam's daughter, Cassidy finished second and third in the 7 and under class. Nice going, you guys.
What else did I want to write about Hartford ... hmmm ... ah yes, pictures:
Cassidy Leikam (6) gets her crank on heading into the first turn.
Dane looking super determined as he rounds the last corner and gets ready to head for home.
Here's Bryan doing what Bryan does best (and everybody in 41-45 cruiser knows it) -- laying down the power.
Todd Zimmerman is a good friend, valuable volunteer, and stylish rider ... big tuck, high speed, major determination.
Generation Next - Payton Dickerson has speed and skills. My money was on him to strip his old man of the speed title ... but, no dice ... it was old age and treachery over youth and enthusiasm for, at least, one more year.
Your author, Mr. Turnbar ... what I lack in both style and speed I more than make up for in the ridiculous overuse of safety equipment. Yeah, I'm safe, and that's a good thing.
ABA Press Release:
This will go up here and remain the message for the balance of this week after tomorrow. Today, we posted the release to the ABABMX.com website announcing the open house for ABA members next Saturday. The track will be open from 10-1 for open practice and we'll have some demo racing laps going off between 1-3. Looking forward to seeing all my BMX friends there.
That's it for now ... keep riding.
Kevin O'
We'll be working tomorrow, weather is supposed to be good and we should really be able to make some essential progress toward track completion. Bring rakes, shovels ... and your bikes. If we get far enough we should be back to ridable by the end of the day.
Hartford Time Trial Report
Bryan Dickerson remains the track record holder at the Hartford practice track, and deservedly so. He built it, he maintains it, and helps organize the annual time trial put on by the City of Hartford parks department. My son Dane and I were stoked to be able to compete. Dane and Jason Leikam's daughter, Cassidy finished second and third in the 7 and under class. Nice going, you guys.
What else did I want to write about Hartford ... hmmm ... ah yes, pictures:
Cassidy Leikam (6) gets her crank on heading into the first turn.
Dane looking super determined as he rounds the last corner and gets ready to head for home.
Here's Bryan doing what Bryan does best (and everybody in 41-45 cruiser knows it) -- laying down the power.
Todd Zimmerman is a good friend, valuable volunteer, and stylish rider ... big tuck, high speed, major determination.
Generation Next - Payton Dickerson has speed and skills. My money was on him to strip his old man of the speed title ... but, no dice ... it was old age and treachery over youth and enthusiasm for, at least, one more year.
Your author, Mr. Turnbar ... what I lack in both style and speed I more than make up for in the ridiculous overuse of safety equipment. Yeah, I'm safe, and that's a good thing.
ABA Press Release:
This will go up here and remain the message for the balance of this week after tomorrow. Today, we posted the release to the ABABMX.com website announcing the open house for ABA members next Saturday. The track will be open from 10-1 for open practice and we'll have some demo racing laps going off between 1-3. Looking forward to seeing all my BMX friends there.
That's it for now ... keep riding.
Kevin O'
Friday, August 04, 2006
Saturday Work Morning:
A small team is getting together trackside for a few hours of work tomorrow morning. On the agenda are forming the first obstacle on the third straight, beginning to rake out the backside of the start hill, potentially putting in some drain tile, and location marking for a control fence along the first straight. That said, rakes can always be dragged and rocks picked. If you want to come on out ... we'll be there from 8 until around noon.
We'll know after tomorrow wether we'll also be working Sunday.
Time Travelers:
A reminder that the Bicycle Motocross Time Trial at The Hartford BMX practice track, a nice little one laner with some knee high 10' gap double jumps, tables and rollers, is going off at 1 p.m. tomorrow.
Directions to the track are
1. Hwy 60 to Hartford to:
2. South on HWY K (corner of Kwik Trip, Cherry Auto & McDonalds) to:
3. West on Monroe Street (right turn) to:
4. Independence Park (on left)
Track is located in the Eastern-most area of the park and is nearest the North Soccer Field.
Check out this cool new feature of Yahoo Maps ... you can go from Map to Satellite View in one click. You can actually see the track from space. Cool.
Small World:
I met with, Jack Hirt, who is the director of the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin today. Jack is a friend and co-worker from 15 years ago while we both were employed (read goofed off) at a golf course in the Sheboygan area. I had absolutely no clue that Jack was at all into biking, but now learn that he's won several Cyclecross championships and has been killing it on XC trails all over the midwest for years. It's so weird to catch up with somebody after many years. We're both dads ourselves now ... and both avid cycling advocates.
Jack has a ton of media contacts and he's going to help us get the word out about the track, which is super exciting, because getting the word out is going to absolutely be key to our success.
Behind the Scenes:
Track Operator - Mittelstadt has been doing a whole lotta due dilligence this week with the City of Franklin. We've got a bit more work to go in the process of pulling a permit, but all indications are positive at this point. I will be writing more about an upcoming meeting in the City of Franklin on August 14 in which we are likely to be granted permission to hold our August 19 riding demonstration. Yeah, it's sure cutting it closer than we would like to have. But, that's life.
Keep the fire's lit, boys and girls ... there will be Bicycle Motocross Racing in the Milwaukee area again soon.
Kevin O'
A small team is getting together trackside for a few hours of work tomorrow morning. On the agenda are forming the first obstacle on the third straight, beginning to rake out the backside of the start hill, potentially putting in some drain tile, and location marking for a control fence along the first straight. That said, rakes can always be dragged and rocks picked. If you want to come on out ... we'll be there from 8 until around noon.
We'll know after tomorrow wether we'll also be working Sunday.
Time Travelers:
A reminder that the Bicycle Motocross Time Trial at The Hartford BMX practice track, a nice little one laner with some knee high 10' gap double jumps, tables and rollers, is going off at 1 p.m. tomorrow.
Directions to the track are
1. Hwy 60 to Hartford to:
2. South on HWY K (corner of Kwik Trip, Cherry Auto & McDonalds) to:
3. West on Monroe Street (right turn) to:
4. Independence Park (on left)
Track is located in the Eastern-most area of the park and is nearest the North Soccer Field.
Check out this cool new feature of Yahoo Maps ... you can go from Map to Satellite View in one click. You can actually see the track from space. Cool.
Small World:
I met with, Jack Hirt, who is the director of the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin today. Jack is a friend and co-worker from 15 years ago while we both were employed (read goofed off) at a golf course in the Sheboygan area. I had absolutely no clue that Jack was at all into biking, but now learn that he's won several Cyclecross championships and has been killing it on XC trails all over the midwest for years. It's so weird to catch up with somebody after many years. We're both dads ourselves now ... and both avid cycling advocates.
Jack has a ton of media contacts and he's going to help us get the word out about the track, which is super exciting, because getting the word out is going to absolutely be key to our success.
Behind the Scenes:
Track Operator - Mittelstadt has been doing a whole lotta due dilligence this week with the City of Franklin. We've got a bit more work to go in the process of pulling a permit, but all indications are positive at this point. I will be writing more about an upcoming meeting in the City of Franklin on August 14 in which we are likely to be granted permission to hold our August 19 riding demonstration. Yeah, it's sure cutting it closer than we would like to have. But, that's life.
Keep the fire's lit, boys and girls ... there will be Bicycle Motocross Racing in the Milwaukee area again soon.
Kevin O'
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Housekeeping:
Just a note to those who may be in need of a renewal, or interested in a new membership application for ABA-BMX Racing, Milwaukee BMX is ABA Track #1730. I finally got around to putting up links dealing with new rider questions and to the ABA membership application.
Talk about humble roots ... check out this photo from my early days. 13-14 year olds on the gate at the old Holiday House track in Manitowoc, WI. It's got to be early 1982, making this, probably the last race I competed at until my first comeback when I was 20. Yeah, it's not your eyes bugging out ... that gate is pink. Jason Leikam has the story for anybody who's interested. The gate was a six laner (harder than heck to make a main at that place !!!) and had something like toilet paper deliniating the lanes. Crazy, but bio-degradable !!! The dude in the Torker Jersey, on a sharp Supergoose, and snapping with some sweet OTB style is Rick Adema ... who went on to become a formidable expert in the mid 80's. The cat in the schwinn jersey with the god awful garden gloves, pie plate and enormous Premier helmet is ... ahemm ... your webmaster. The bike is a late 1981 Hutch Pro-Racer.
Got a cool shot you want to share on MilwaukeeBMX.com? e-mail the image -- (and the story) ... (and, duh, we prefer shots that involve Wisconsin BMX of some sort) -- and we'll try to put up what we can.
Thanks again for all your support ... we're loving the comments, e-mails and phone calls we've been getting over the last couple of weeks.
Kevin O'
Just a note to those who may be in need of a renewal, or interested in a new membership application for ABA-BMX Racing, Milwaukee BMX is ABA Track #1730. I finally got around to putting up links dealing with new rider questions and to the ABA membership application.
Talk about humble roots ... check out this photo from my early days. 13-14 year olds on the gate at the old Holiday House track in Manitowoc, WI. It's got to be early 1982, making this, probably the last race I competed at until my first comeback when I was 20. Yeah, it's not your eyes bugging out ... that gate is pink. Jason Leikam has the story for anybody who's interested. The gate was a six laner (harder than heck to make a main at that place !!!) and had something like toilet paper deliniating the lanes. Crazy, but bio-degradable !!! The dude in the Torker Jersey, on a sharp Supergoose, and snapping with some sweet OTB style is Rick Adema ... who went on to become a formidable expert in the mid 80's. The cat in the schwinn jersey with the god awful garden gloves, pie plate and enormous Premier helmet is ... ahemm ... your webmaster. The bike is a late 1981 Hutch Pro-Racer.
Got a cool shot you want to share on MilwaukeeBMX.com? e-mail the image -- (and the story) ... (and, duh, we prefer shots that involve Wisconsin BMX of some sort) -- and we'll try to put up what we can.
Thanks again for all your support ... we're loving the comments, e-mails and phone calls we've been getting over the last couple of weeks.
Kevin O'
Monday, July 31, 2006
Momentum:
We've got it ... and, these are the people you can thank for the help they've provided.
From the left:
Kyle Schulz - the broom may be taller than he is ... but, he's down with helping out. Not only is Kyle having a "killer time", he's also showing great political sensibilities for a young man his age. Vote for Pedro !!!
Steven Palumbo - I'm sorry you didn't have a chance to hit up the track on Saturday, you can see the kid is full of power, and, though we've had some good riders take laps, Steven looks like the kind of kid that is ready to make all our jaws drop when he hits it up.
Krystal Schulz - Brian, you and Tammi have some really super kids -- Krystal has a quick wit and works really hard.
Brian Schulz - Yeah, he's a dad, like me ... with a big honkin' BMX Jones that he lugs around with him. Brian is working on opening a track of his own in the Kenosha area ... and, I can't wait to help with that one too.
John Mittelstadt - Keep us moving along, T/O.
Dana Mittelstadt - Don't ever forget my words of advice ... well, at least until you are on your own. if your dad tells you you are leaving at 7 ... get some sleep that night ... dad's never let their kids off the hook because they got to bed late.
Curt Zizzo - Snackbar has been tearing it up all year for Direct Link ... but, took a few hours to swing up and help us move forward. If you don't like the roller double out of the second corner, you can blame Curt ... right, Mike?
Mike Froh - Told me a bunch of times that if somebody would step up to run a track, he'd be happy to build it. Mike, meet John Mittelstadt ... John, meet Mike. Mike is the difference between a track and a great track. Volunteer with us for one day and you'll see what I mean.
Craig from Pro Electric - You don't see him in this photo ... but, you do see his equipment. Skid steer rental is costly, but essential when building a track. Craig has very graciously allowed the use of his loader on four weekends. That is a killer donation.
Todd Zimmerman - Todd is just about world famous for his volunteer efforts on BMX tracks. In fact, I think he's lined up to help form jumps in Seoul in 2008. This picture is from a couple of weeks ago.
Fred Yanke - I couldn't talk Fred into being part of this image. He said he would "when it's done". So, anyway, here is Fred's incomplete work providing a design element to our start hill. Fred and Mike are both landscapers in current and previous lives, respectively ... and make the rest of us look like absolute klutzes with a rake in our hands. This picture is from last weekend.
We've got it ... and, these are the people you can thank for the help they've provided.
From the left:
Kyle Schulz - the broom may be taller than he is ... but, he's down with helping out. Not only is Kyle having a "killer time", he's also showing great political sensibilities for a young man his age. Vote for Pedro !!!
Steven Palumbo - I'm sorry you didn't have a chance to hit up the track on Saturday, you can see the kid is full of power, and, though we've had some good riders take laps, Steven looks like the kind of kid that is ready to make all our jaws drop when he hits it up.
Krystal Schulz - Brian, you and Tammi have some really super kids -- Krystal has a quick wit and works really hard.
Brian Schulz - Yeah, he's a dad, like me ... with a big honkin' BMX Jones that he lugs around with him. Brian is working on opening a track of his own in the Kenosha area ... and, I can't wait to help with that one too.
John Mittelstadt - Keep us moving along, T/O.
Dana Mittelstadt - Don't ever forget my words of advice ... well, at least until you are on your own. if your dad tells you you are leaving at 7 ... get some sleep that night ... dad's never let their kids off the hook because they got to bed late.
Curt Zizzo - Snackbar has been tearing it up all year for Direct Link ... but, took a few hours to swing up and help us move forward. If you don't like the roller double out of the second corner, you can blame Curt ... right, Mike?
Mike Froh - Told me a bunch of times that if somebody would step up to run a track, he'd be happy to build it. Mike, meet John Mittelstadt ... John, meet Mike. Mike is the difference between a track and a great track. Volunteer with us for one day and you'll see what I mean.
Craig from Pro Electric - You don't see him in this photo ... but, you do see his equipment. Skid steer rental is costly, but essential when building a track. Craig has very graciously allowed the use of his loader on four weekends. That is a killer donation.
Todd Zimmerman - Todd is just about world famous for his volunteer efforts on BMX tracks. In fact, I think he's lined up to help form jumps in Seoul in 2008. This picture is from a couple of weeks ago.
Fred Yanke - I couldn't talk Fred into being part of this image. He said he would "when it's done". So, anyway, here is Fred's incomplete work providing a design element to our start hill. Fred and Mike are both landscapers in current and previous lives, respectively ... and make the rest of us look like absolute klutzes with a rake in our hands. This picture is from last weekend.
Also helping Saturday, but not pictured, Jason Leikam (a friend for 20+ years), Troy Kasper (T/O from Winnebegoland), Tammi Schulz (Brian's wife who cheers really loud for him during races and does an excellent job with the video camera), and Theresa Palumbo (Steven's mom who jumped right in to help after getting roped into giving Steven a ride to the track). Also, for their past help, props to Tim Eiring (Direct Link 28X who is setting the world on fire), and Bryan Dickerson (Direct Link 36+ X who has built and run several tracks during his, ahem, 30 years of involvement with BMX).
On the Clock:
We received this e-mail correspondence from Dickerson last week:
I will be hosting a BMX time trial event at my local practice track on the 5th at 1pm and am wondering if any of you were interested in helping. I would like to put on a speed show.
The track maybe too small for RB.
This is a non-sanctioned event that will run timed laps around a BMX practice facility constructed by Dickerson in a park in Hartford, WI. It's a totally cool little riding spot that my 6 year old Dane and I have hit up a number of times. The jumps are small, but super fun, and the total track length is about 800 ft. I'll get some directions up for those of you interested later this week.
That's it for now ... stay cool everyone.
Kevin O'
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Rain, Rain -- Enough Already !!!
Man, normally, I'm hoping for just a teensy bit of rain at this time of year to keep my lawn from going "seasonal" brown and gold. My neighbors are really less than stoked on the patch of clover and mustard where grass used to be. But, hey brother ... it's sustainable ... and even sorta pretty when it hasn't been cut for a couple of days and the stuff starts to flower.
But I digress.
The rain is beginning to drive me a little nutty ... but, despite ma nature's best efforts to wreck shop, our little track is definitely holding its own.
Dane (soon to be six novice) and I did a little rake and ride of our own last night and yee-haw ... it was probably easily the most fun I've had on track since I was a teen myself. Not that I need to elaborate on my pitiful riding ... but, the track is already beginning to flow really well. And, the first turn definitely has a "rail" line up top. Good stuff.
The team is still shooting for a full Saturday work day ... hit us up anytime between 8 and 4 ... and, yeah ... I finally pulled my head out of my arse and put some directions up for you out of the area types. If you want to work ... bring a lawn or thatching rake ... those seem to work the best for the hand work we still need to do. John and Fred met trackside tonight, and yeah, I was supposed to be there, but me being behind on yet another proposal that's heading out the door tomorrow meant tonight was a DNF for me. Between the two of them and Mike ... they'll have plenty for the rest of us to do on Saturday.
Suddently getting a fair amount of interest around these parts ... which is just dang cool. We really appreciate all your support.
C-Ya Saturday.
Kevin O'
Man, normally, I'm hoping for just a teensy bit of rain at this time of year to keep my lawn from going "seasonal" brown and gold. My neighbors are really less than stoked on the patch of clover and mustard where grass used to be. But, hey brother ... it's sustainable ... and even sorta pretty when it hasn't been cut for a couple of days and the stuff starts to flower.
But I digress.
The rain is beginning to drive me a little nutty ... but, despite ma nature's best efforts to wreck shop, our little track is definitely holding its own.
Dane (soon to be six novice) and I did a little rake and ride of our own last night and yee-haw ... it was probably easily the most fun I've had on track since I was a teen myself. Not that I need to elaborate on my pitiful riding ... but, the track is already beginning to flow really well. And, the first turn definitely has a "rail" line up top. Good stuff.
The team is still shooting for a full Saturday work day ... hit us up anytime between 8 and 4 ... and, yeah ... I finally pulled my head out of my arse and put some directions up for you out of the area types. If you want to work ... bring a lawn or thatching rake ... those seem to work the best for the hand work we still need to do. John and Fred met trackside tonight, and yeah, I was supposed to be there, but me being behind on yet another proposal that's heading out the door tomorrow meant tonight was a DNF for me. Between the two of them and Mike ... they'll have plenty for the rest of us to do on Saturday.
Suddently getting a fair amount of interest around these parts ... which is just dang cool. We really appreciate all your support.
C-Ya Saturday.
Kevin O'
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Bicycle Motocross at Crystal Ridge is GAME-ON !!!
Track Operator Mittlestadt and I met with officials from Milwaukee County and the City of Franklin who have embraced the idea of the track and will be helping us navigate the process to procure the proper city approvals / blessings, etc. We have got to be mindful of being good neighbors to Franklin. We've learned that even though Bicycle Motocross is a medal sport in the 2008 Olympic games ... there are still a lot of people who have never seen it ... and have many pre-conceived notions of the chaos our riders could bring to their community. Of course, it's not like that, but, since perception is often reality ... we have to be super sensitive about being polite, clean, and well run.
Key Dates Ahead
Saturday August 19th
All ABA licensed riders are invited to join us, Saturday, August 19th for a day long practice. We'll schedule age groups throughout the day based on participation. This practice session is in response to the Mayor of Franklin's request for us to host an "open house" and mock race day on August 19th in coordination with the City of Franklin's 50'th anniversary celebration. Although we will not have our gate in by that time, we are certainly capable of having the track open to riders and hosting the event the Mayor's suggesting. Let's pull it off ... you can help show your support of Milwaukee BMX just by showing up with your race bike (and, please, bring your uniform, if you have one ... part of the purpose of this "open house" is to get people interested in Bicycle Motocross.
Saturday July 29th
Rake and Ride day ... please bring safety equipment if you are going to ride. It has still not been determined if our track will be "open" or "closed", so we've got to set a good example with safety gear if we ride ... no question. John is working on procuring a trencher so that we can finally resolve our corner drainage issues.
Saturday August 5th - rake and ride (see above)
Saturday August 12th - rake and ride (see above)
We may also add weeknight's as we go along.
Big thanks to Fred and Bryan for cutting some drain relief ditches last weekend.
That's it for now.
Kevin O'
Track Operator Mittlestadt and I met with officials from Milwaukee County and the City of Franklin who have embraced the idea of the track and will be helping us navigate the process to procure the proper city approvals / blessings, etc. We have got to be mindful of being good neighbors to Franklin. We've learned that even though Bicycle Motocross is a medal sport in the 2008 Olympic games ... there are still a lot of people who have never seen it ... and have many pre-conceived notions of the chaos our riders could bring to their community. Of course, it's not like that, but, since perception is often reality ... we have to be super sensitive about being polite, clean, and well run.
Key Dates Ahead
Saturday August 19th
All ABA licensed riders are invited to join us, Saturday, August 19th for a day long practice. We'll schedule age groups throughout the day based on participation. This practice session is in response to the Mayor of Franklin's request for us to host an "open house" and mock race day on August 19th in coordination with the City of Franklin's 50'th anniversary celebration. Although we will not have our gate in by that time, we are certainly capable of having the track open to riders and hosting the event the Mayor's suggesting. Let's pull it off ... you can help show your support of Milwaukee BMX just by showing up with your race bike (and, please, bring your uniform, if you have one ... part of the purpose of this "open house" is to get people interested in Bicycle Motocross.
Saturday July 29th
Rake and Ride day ... please bring safety equipment if you are going to ride. It has still not been determined if our track will be "open" or "closed", so we've got to set a good example with safety gear if we ride ... no question. John is working on procuring a trencher so that we can finally resolve our corner drainage issues.
Saturday August 5th - rake and ride (see above)
Saturday August 12th - rake and ride (see above)
We may also add weeknight's as we go along.
Big thanks to Fred and Bryan for cutting some drain relief ditches last weekend.
That's it for now.
Kevin O'
Monday, July 10, 2006
Now On The Web @ MilwaukeeBMX.com
MilwaukeeBMX.com is now owned by and under the control of, well, Milwaukee BMX, which pretty much rules because ... milwaukeebmx.blogspot.com is really hard for people to remember.
Anyhow ... it's another step in the right direction as this crazy idea Mittelstadt had becomes a reality.
Mike Froh and Fred Yanke have been working tirelessly through the weekend and made some enormous strides toward the completion of the track. I could sit and write lots about the progress, but, it's a whole lot easier to just show pictures. After all, they are worth a thousand words, right? Based on my math, it would take me a couple of days to write all the words you all should have for these:
first straight, first jump - step up, step down (and ya' do the hokie pokie ...)
Second jump, first huck ... 21' lip to lip into turn one makes jump #2 a leap of faith. That said, it's going to be an absolute gas watching the older experts blast this baby at full song.
Here's what jump #2 looks like from the riders perspective ... well, if said rider was all the way outside and probably getting smoked into the first turn. Note the backside is nice and mellow for us older (or younger) folks.
This "enhanced image" shows the second straight from the reworked back half of the big first berm. The corner used to shoot you out at the left side of the jump, so, Mike hopped on the skid steer and provided a sweet remedy. I fudged in the stripes out of curiosity. Mike spent a lot of time on Friday making sure things were evenly spaced and that the straights all have a consistent width on the obstacles. There should be a lot of passing opportunities here. Straight is step up, followed by two 19' lip to lip ABA "National" style doubles.
This shot looks down the second straight from the second jump. For those that air it out here, a lot of backside pump can be had which will make this a really strong momentum straight. Rolling and pumping looks as though it will be a solid alternative as well.
Here's kind of a strange view from the mid point of the second turn, looking right across the apex and into the third straight rhythm. Mike is going to build a new first obstacle for the third straight, but needed to have that space open to gain access to the rest of the straights with the loader for the time being.
Finally, looking out of the entrance of the last corner. This is another weird shot as the riders will be heading straight for my vantage point on the straight immediately centered. To the right is the second straight, on which the riders will be going away from me. To the left is the final straight on which riders will also be heading away from where I'm standing.
Track Promotion
This weekend will be spent focusing on promotion as the WORS (Wisconsin Off Road Series) Mt. Bikers converge on Crystal Ridge. Hundreds of riders on site gives us a huge opportunity to promote our new track among our big wheeled brothers and sisters. John and I are working on promotional materials to hand out, but, we really could use some help with somebody to sit at a table for a portion of Sunday and hand out literature on the track. Please get in touch with me if you think you can help with this.
Here's a draft of a promotional flyer that I worked up yesterday:
Kevin O'
MilwaukeeBMX.com is now owned by and under the control of, well, Milwaukee BMX, which pretty much rules because ... milwaukeebmx.blogspot.com is really hard for people to remember.
Anyhow ... it's another step in the right direction as this crazy idea Mittelstadt had becomes a reality.
Mike Froh and Fred Yanke have been working tirelessly through the weekend and made some enormous strides toward the completion of the track. I could sit and write lots about the progress, but, it's a whole lot easier to just show pictures. After all, they are worth a thousand words, right? Based on my math, it would take me a couple of days to write all the words you all should have for these:
first straight, first jump - step up, step down (and ya' do the hokie pokie ...)
Second jump, first huck ... 21' lip to lip into turn one makes jump #2 a leap of faith. That said, it's going to be an absolute gas watching the older experts blast this baby at full song.
Here's what jump #2 looks like from the riders perspective ... well, if said rider was all the way outside and probably getting smoked into the first turn. Note the backside is nice and mellow for us older (or younger) folks.
This "enhanced image" shows the second straight from the reworked back half of the big first berm. The corner used to shoot you out at the left side of the jump, so, Mike hopped on the skid steer and provided a sweet remedy. I fudged in the stripes out of curiosity. Mike spent a lot of time on Friday making sure things were evenly spaced and that the straights all have a consistent width on the obstacles. There should be a lot of passing opportunities here. Straight is step up, followed by two 19' lip to lip ABA "National" style doubles.
This shot looks down the second straight from the second jump. For those that air it out here, a lot of backside pump can be had which will make this a really strong momentum straight. Rolling and pumping looks as though it will be a solid alternative as well.
Here's kind of a strange view from the mid point of the second turn, looking right across the apex and into the third straight rhythm. Mike is going to build a new first obstacle for the third straight, but needed to have that space open to gain access to the rest of the straights with the loader for the time being.
Finally, looking out of the entrance of the last corner. This is another weird shot as the riders will be heading straight for my vantage point on the straight immediately centered. To the right is the second straight, on which the riders will be going away from me. To the left is the final straight on which riders will also be heading away from where I'm standing.
Track Promotion
This weekend will be spent focusing on promotion as the WORS (Wisconsin Off Road Series) Mt. Bikers converge on Crystal Ridge. Hundreds of riders on site gives us a huge opportunity to promote our new track among our big wheeled brothers and sisters. John and I are working on promotional materials to hand out, but, we really could use some help with somebody to sit at a table for a portion of Sunday and hand out literature on the track. Please get in touch with me if you think you can help with this.
Here's a draft of a promotional flyer that I worked up yesterday:
Kevin O'
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Random Thoughts:
Though it has been a while since anybody's asked how I got started in BMX, the Milwaukee BMX venture has me thinking about it a fair amount. I'm not totally sure how I may have answered in the past, but, whatever the reply was, it probably wasn't entirely accurate. This recent introspection makes it quite clear that there was a "point" at which I became a BMX'er.
Yeah, sure, I had the speed for the neighborhood around the block races, and caught my share of air off the obligatory cinder block with 1 x 6 plank for a ramp. I was, I suppose, a brave little imp on a bike back then who must have seemed bent on making my mother nervous.
The Early Days ...
In 1977, as a 10 year old, BMX was around me, but I was just about completely unaware of it. The kids in my neighborhood were mainly into racing around the block and pretty much we were all just about goofing off back then. I think '77 was also the year that I got my first "MX" bicycle ... some odd sort of Huffy that I absolutely knew was "MX" ... because it said so right on the back of the saddle. I immediately proceeded to deck out my "MX" with just about every non MX item I could think of. We're talking mirrors, some big honking headlight ... and, yeah ... an even bigger honking horn. Those who are helping Milwaukee BMX a reality some 30 years later are probably not at all suprised to know that I was a dork.
Somewhere, in one of my mom's crusty old photo albums, there is absolute proof of this. The photo sequence highlights me "dialing in" my "MX", then on some obvious bonzai run, and, in the next shot, I've eaten poo. It must have been a premonition that led me to throw on a toy Green Bay Packers helmet, and my body was similarly well protected by my gold windbreaker with "Monroe Shock Absorbers" sticker and plaid denim pants. All of you guys who chuckle at what a yard sale I look like when I show up to the track now ... should have seen me then.
The little MX got pretty thrashed that summer ... and, I'm pretty sure it went missing all together from the front lawn one evening. Even crappy bikes have a way of vanishing if left unobserved ... even in Sheboygan, Wisconsin ... even in 1977. Anyhow, by '78 I was riding some wild and weird, even more motorcycle looking Huffy with a 3 speed shifter mechanism, and bright green body panels. I'm quite certain that Kawasaki was way past making BMX bikes at this point, but the cheapo Huffy / Kawasaki replica lived on in the O'Donnell household. So did my tendancy to not keep a real close eye on my bikes. And so it was that the Huffy disappeared one night as well. (Seriously, in retrospect, I can just imagine the neighborhood thugs just hovering around the O'Donnell house ... easy pickin's after all).
Perhaps it was a weird twist of fate ... but, my carelessness with bikes led me to a bikeless beginning of 1979. That is, until Sheboygan's finest called to let us know that the first huffy had been recovered in some kids garage raid. So, the "MX" returned, and I was back off and riding.
The Start of Something New ...
Around this same time, I was becoming increasingly aware of some crazy new thing that was going on called BMX. In fact, the new 1979 Mongoose bikes that had arrived at Bike N' Ski warehouse were just as overt in informing kids like me that they were BMX as the little Huffy was with it's obvious notation of "MX". Perhaps it was just cooincidental that the Mongoose "BMX" was simply a change in perspective from the Huffy "MX". While the Huffy was MX from the back ... the Mongoose told you right up front that it was BMX.
In 1979, I must have visited Bike N' Ski warehouse 6,466 times; sat on the Mongoose bikes 247,567,987 times; and irritated the heck out of Mike LaBouve every single moment during those visits. As evidence of the fact that sometimes, parents just don't get it, my repeated requests for some "sponsorship" from mom for a new 'Goose evolved into a deal for me to make good grades as I entered the 7th grade ... for a Schwinn SX-1000. Now, the Schwinn was a good bike, but, it wasn't a Mongoose. But, I was game for the deal, because hey, I wasn't dumb. My grades, however, seemed to indicate otherwise. Evidentally, early in the 7th grade, I became really good at hiding ... which evolved into being really good at being bullied and my grades just sucked as a result. Such is life. The SX-1000, which was on lay-a-way, had a full deposit returned to my mom ... and I got myself a paper route.
Having saved up just enough at the tail end of '79 to convince my mom that it would be really cool if she met me 1/2 way on a much less expensive, but still kinda cool Murray with Motomags, I was able to retire the little huffy at Christmas of '79.
The Moment:
About two months later, still making awful grades, with a heavy new ride, I caught, out of the corner of my eye, the cover image of March 1980 Bicycle Motocross Action at the South High Pharmacy drug store. The Panda Pro-Am on the cover, subject of that months big bike test, was like nothing I had quite ever seen before. It had alloy wheels, an alloy seatpost and looked absolutely purposeful. The Mongoose and Schwinn dealers in town had a fair amount of "thrasher" inventory, but, for a long time, the SX-1000, that I had almost laid claim to, with its mild steel frame, was the closest in town to anything like the Panda. And, there were all sorts of bikes that were built just like the Panda inside the magazine. JMC's, CYC's (Ronnie Ames Stormer), Lagunas, GT's, Race Inc.'s and on and on. Though I was generally headed in the BMX direction, clearly, the moment I laid eyes on that magazine was the moment I became a BMX'er.
It's impossible to say how many kids that saw that very same issue as their first of Bicycle Motocross Action went on to become BMX racers themselves, but, in my case ... I did. Spending even more time at Bike N' Ski until they finally gave me some tasks to complete in exchange for payment toward a Redline MX-II they had on the floor. My first race was the 1981 SE / Rondo Classic, an indoor national on the ABA tour that was held at the convention center in Minneapolis. Talk about jumping in with the sharks ... but, that's another story.
The Moral of the Story:
The moral of the story, quite obviously, is that we all have a story. It makes me really proud to know that in 30 years, perhaps some 40 year old former or current BMX'er is going to be asked the question ... "so, how did you get started in BMX". That rider will spend some time pondering the answer, which, with clarity, will arrive, fresh and ready as it was the day he had his moment. The day he arrived, with his parents, a bike and maybe a friend, at Crystal Ridge, and slowly made the drive up the driveway ... until the BMX track came in clear view.
Kevin O'
Though it has been a while since anybody's asked how I got started in BMX, the Milwaukee BMX venture has me thinking about it a fair amount. I'm not totally sure how I may have answered in the past, but, whatever the reply was, it probably wasn't entirely accurate. This recent introspection makes it quite clear that there was a "point" at which I became a BMX'er.
Yeah, sure, I had the speed for the neighborhood around the block races, and caught my share of air off the obligatory cinder block with 1 x 6 plank for a ramp. I was, I suppose, a brave little imp on a bike back then who must have seemed bent on making my mother nervous.
The Early Days ...
In 1977, as a 10 year old, BMX was around me, but I was just about completely unaware of it. The kids in my neighborhood were mainly into racing around the block and pretty much we were all just about goofing off back then. I think '77 was also the year that I got my first "MX" bicycle ... some odd sort of Huffy that I absolutely knew was "MX" ... because it said so right on the back of the saddle. I immediately proceeded to deck out my "MX" with just about every non MX item I could think of. We're talking mirrors, some big honking headlight ... and, yeah ... an even bigger honking horn. Those who are helping Milwaukee BMX a reality some 30 years later are probably not at all suprised to know that I was a dork.
Somewhere, in one of my mom's crusty old photo albums, there is absolute proof of this. The photo sequence highlights me "dialing in" my "MX", then on some obvious bonzai run, and, in the next shot, I've eaten poo. It must have been a premonition that led me to throw on a toy Green Bay Packers helmet, and my body was similarly well protected by my gold windbreaker with "Monroe Shock Absorbers" sticker and plaid denim pants. All of you guys who chuckle at what a yard sale I look like when I show up to the track now ... should have seen me then.
The little MX got pretty thrashed that summer ... and, I'm pretty sure it went missing all together from the front lawn one evening. Even crappy bikes have a way of vanishing if left unobserved ... even in Sheboygan, Wisconsin ... even in 1977. Anyhow, by '78 I was riding some wild and weird, even more motorcycle looking Huffy with a 3 speed shifter mechanism, and bright green body panels. I'm quite certain that Kawasaki was way past making BMX bikes at this point, but the cheapo Huffy / Kawasaki replica lived on in the O'Donnell household. So did my tendancy to not keep a real close eye on my bikes. And so it was that the Huffy disappeared one night as well. (Seriously, in retrospect, I can just imagine the neighborhood thugs just hovering around the O'Donnell house ... easy pickin's after all).
Perhaps it was a weird twist of fate ... but, my carelessness with bikes led me to a bikeless beginning of 1979. That is, until Sheboygan's finest called to let us know that the first huffy had been recovered in some kids garage raid. So, the "MX" returned, and I was back off and riding.
The Start of Something New ...
Around this same time, I was becoming increasingly aware of some crazy new thing that was going on called BMX. In fact, the new 1979 Mongoose bikes that had arrived at Bike N' Ski warehouse were just as overt in informing kids like me that they were BMX as the little Huffy was with it's obvious notation of "MX". Perhaps it was just cooincidental that the Mongoose "BMX" was simply a change in perspective from the Huffy "MX". While the Huffy was MX from the back ... the Mongoose told you right up front that it was BMX.
In 1979, I must have visited Bike N' Ski warehouse 6,466 times; sat on the Mongoose bikes 247,567,987 times; and irritated the heck out of Mike LaBouve every single moment during those visits. As evidence of the fact that sometimes, parents just don't get it, my repeated requests for some "sponsorship" from mom for a new 'Goose evolved into a deal for me to make good grades as I entered the 7th grade ... for a Schwinn SX-1000. Now, the Schwinn was a good bike, but, it wasn't a Mongoose. But, I was game for the deal, because hey, I wasn't dumb. My grades, however, seemed to indicate otherwise. Evidentally, early in the 7th grade, I became really good at hiding ... which evolved into being really good at being bullied and my grades just sucked as a result. Such is life. The SX-1000, which was on lay-a-way, had a full deposit returned to my mom ... and I got myself a paper route.
Having saved up just enough at the tail end of '79 to convince my mom that it would be really cool if she met me 1/2 way on a much less expensive, but still kinda cool Murray with Motomags, I was able to retire the little huffy at Christmas of '79.
The Moment:
About two months later, still making awful grades, with a heavy new ride, I caught, out of the corner of my eye, the cover image of March 1980 Bicycle Motocross Action at the South High Pharmacy drug store. The Panda Pro-Am on the cover, subject of that months big bike test, was like nothing I had quite ever seen before. It had alloy wheels, an alloy seatpost and looked absolutely purposeful. The Mongoose and Schwinn dealers in town had a fair amount of "thrasher" inventory, but, for a long time, the SX-1000, that I had almost laid claim to, with its mild steel frame, was the closest in town to anything like the Panda. And, there were all sorts of bikes that were built just like the Panda inside the magazine. JMC's, CYC's (Ronnie Ames Stormer), Lagunas, GT's, Race Inc.'s and on and on. Though I was generally headed in the BMX direction, clearly, the moment I laid eyes on that magazine was the moment I became a BMX'er.
It's impossible to say how many kids that saw that very same issue as their first of Bicycle Motocross Action went on to become BMX racers themselves, but, in my case ... I did. Spending even more time at Bike N' Ski until they finally gave me some tasks to complete in exchange for payment toward a Redline MX-II they had on the floor. My first race was the 1981 SE / Rondo Classic, an indoor national on the ABA tour that was held at the convention center in Minneapolis. Talk about jumping in with the sharks ... but, that's another story.
The Moral of the Story:
The moral of the story, quite obviously, is that we all have a story. It makes me really proud to know that in 30 years, perhaps some 40 year old former or current BMX'er is going to be asked the question ... "so, how did you get started in BMX". That rider will spend some time pondering the answer, which, with clarity, will arrive, fresh and ready as it was the day he had his moment. The day he arrived, with his parents, a bike and maybe a friend, at Crystal Ridge, and slowly made the drive up the driveway ... until the BMX track came in clear view.
Kevin O'
Monday, July 03, 2006
first straight - Friday evening
track overview - Saturday afternoon
Forward Progress:
Thanks in large part to the efforts of Mike Froh, Fred Yanke, John Mittlestadt, Dana Mittlestadt, Jason Leikam, Todd Zimmerman, Milwaukee BMX at Crystal Ridge is really beginning to take shape. The crew worked a ton Friday and Saturday and have the first and second straights in their final form and to the point that they are ready to be compacted. Serious thanks to these guys for volunteering a whole lot of sweat, and a little bit of blood to make the dream of Milwaukee BMX a reality. I still can't get over how ridiculously efficient Mike is in building jumps, like an artist working in a dirt medium, every stroke of the rake counts big toward the final outcome of the jump ... there is no wasted motion ... Mike is an exercise in efficiency, or, appears to me to be, at least. Yeah, it's safe to say we owe Mike a heckuva lot.
Props to Fred as well ... who, has a similar skill set to Mike's ... and had a fair amount of collaboration into the final outcome of the jumps. Not to mention ... he really gets how to work to get the job done. Saturday afternoon, I kept finding myself hoping he'd call it a day ... but, on we worked ... and I still think I'm beat as a result.
Todd Zimmerman brought Bryan Dickerson's drag, that worked particularly well for progressing the shape of the third straight rhythm and last straights.
Work left to do includes finish work on the last two straights and finish work in the turns. Having personally raked the first half of the first turn now twice, I think it's safe to say ... it's going to be a muther of a job.
I took a few track pics with the digital that I will get uploaded this afternoon or tomorrow.
We owe huge thanks to John's friend Eric, who provided the use of a skid steer that worked flawlessly all weekend. One or two more days with that machine and the fearless crew mentioned above would have us riding for sure.
Because we are still working without water, compacting began to some degree with Fred's ATV ... the dirt is sticking against the wind, but is soft beneath tires. Our MTB friends have been really cool and totally responsible with regard to how patient they've been. But, we can not emphasize enough the amount of work you guys can save us through your continued patience. We are still shooting for late July ... so, please hang tight ... you'll all be riding soon.
Fun(d) Raising:
Every track needs some cash outside of entry fees to run. And, though we've temporarily shelved the Joe Kid on a Stingray screening that we had in mind for this summer (we'll shoot for next spring as an alternative for the event), an idea for an alternative fund raiser has come up. When the time is right ... we're just going to invite a bunch of you to come out and check out the new track with us ... suggested donation is probably going to be like $5 per rider. With the amount of progress made on the track this weekend, it would seem as though we're shooting for late July for this event. Details are going to evolve quickly, so stay tuned on it for sure. We're planning: open jam at trackside, a tailgate cookout of some sort, fundraising raffle and blah blah ... you know ... pretty seriously fun stuff that gets you guys on track, and affords us the ability to construct and pay for a gate.
ABA Great Lakes Nationals
Milwaukee BMX regular contributors Tim Eiring, Bryan Dickerson, Randy Behnke and Curt Zizzo absolutely killed it for team Direct Link during the ABA Great Lakes Nationals at St. Cloud, MN this weekend. Three of the four doubled in the older cruiser classes (Eiring 26-30, Behnke 31-35, Zizzo 36-40 and Dickerson 41-45) and Eiring had a 1st and 2nd, plus a win in 28+ expert on Saturday. We hope Direct Link is able to capatilize on the team's recent success as all riders also had top finishes at the recent Midwest Nationals. All four have been helpful in the development of Milwaukee BMX and we're obviolusly stoked to have the participation of a factory team on a week to week basis. Kids who wonder what it takes to get fast would be wise to learn from these four guys. They practice together, pushing one another further on just about every lap, and, the results pretty much say it all.
That's it for the moment ... track images and details on the fund raiser will be coming very soon.
Kevin O'
Friday, June 23, 2006
Moving Ahead ...
Tuesday night a small group got together trackside to figure out our "next steps" in track preparation. Mike Froh had mony good things to say about the Steve Spencer designed and built track. The wheels turn in Mike's mind nearly as quickly as they do on his bike as it relates to a couple of tweaks. The fourth of July weekend will bring a great deal of progress toward the completion of the Milwaukee track. The group will spend a considerable amount of time on Friday June 30th, Saturday July 1st, (we are not scheduled to work on Sunday, though some of us likely will) and Monday July 3rd. John Mittlestadt is working on procurring a skid loader for Mike to run those days. We've got some great leads on equipment we may be able to use that John is following through on, or, Fred Yanke can also procure a rental at a pretty killer rate. In any event ... you will be seeing considerable progress soon.
John and I have been scratching our heads over our expenses and awards seem to be a considerable piece of the puzzle. Despite the fact that a friend of mine runs a trophy shop, we're going to have to shop the awards piece, I'm afraid ... so, if anybody has additional suggestions for a competitive quote for us ... leave word here, or feel free to shoot me an e-mail. Another item that's been revealed in the promise of Milwaukee BMX is that our cost model really reflects a better situation for us as the rider count increases. This is a result of ammortizing our cost of insurance (and is the only cost that's absolutely static with no regard to rider count) ... so, we're hoping that all of you realize that we're promoting together. Please bring a friend, and don't forget to encourage that friend to bring a friend. Because of the nature of the agreements with John Kaishian and ABA BMX, which are both modeled on a per-rider basis, increased rider counts will help us pay off our gate more quickly, and provide the peace of mind (hey, cash makes me rest easier too) to John K. that he made the right decision by supporting our effort.
Today, we discussed a possible fund-raising event to get a bit of money for the club together ... so that we won't have to keep cranking cash out of our own pockets in an effort to prepare for racing. A good friend of mine from the Portland area clued me in to the following fund-raising event put on by a local bike shop ... it was called Bucks for BMX and involved a premiere showing (in Portland, anyway) of Joe Kid on a Sting-Ray which is a totally rad movie about the formative years of BMX Racing and Freestyle.
Tuesday night a small group got together trackside to figure out our "next steps" in track preparation. Mike Froh had mony good things to say about the Steve Spencer designed and built track. The wheels turn in Mike's mind nearly as quickly as they do on his bike as it relates to a couple of tweaks. The fourth of July weekend will bring a great deal of progress toward the completion of the Milwaukee track. The group will spend a considerable amount of time on Friday June 30th, Saturday July 1st, (we are not scheduled to work on Sunday, though some of us likely will) and Monday July 3rd. John Mittlestadt is working on procurring a skid loader for Mike to run those days. We've got some great leads on equipment we may be able to use that John is following through on, or, Fred Yanke can also procure a rental at a pretty killer rate. In any event ... you will be seeing considerable progress soon.
John and I have been scratching our heads over our expenses and awards seem to be a considerable piece of the puzzle. Despite the fact that a friend of mine runs a trophy shop, we're going to have to shop the awards piece, I'm afraid ... so, if anybody has additional suggestions for a competitive quote for us ... leave word here, or feel free to shoot me an e-mail. Another item that's been revealed in the promise of Milwaukee BMX is that our cost model really reflects a better situation for us as the rider count increases. This is a result of ammortizing our cost of insurance (and is the only cost that's absolutely static with no regard to rider count) ... so, we're hoping that all of you realize that we're promoting together. Please bring a friend, and don't forget to encourage that friend to bring a friend. Because of the nature of the agreements with John Kaishian and ABA BMX, which are both modeled on a per-rider basis, increased rider counts will help us pay off our gate more quickly, and provide the peace of mind (hey, cash makes me rest easier too) to John K. that he made the right decision by supporting our effort.
Today, we discussed a possible fund-raising event to get a bit of money for the club together ... so that we won't have to keep cranking cash out of our own pockets in an effort to prepare for racing. A good friend of mine from the Portland area clued me in to the following fund-raising event put on by a local bike shop ... it was called Bucks for BMX and involved a premiere showing (in Portland, anyway) of Joe Kid on a Sting-Ray which is a totally rad movie about the formative years of BMX Racing and Freestyle.From what I've heard, the event was quite successful, although I do not know exactly how much the final tally of money raised amounted to.
John and I have discussed having a small party (perhaps 100 guests) at the Chalet at Crystal Ridge to view the movie and just ratchet up the excitement about Milwaukee BMX in general. Again, feedback is helpful, so, if you have some thoughts the type of success we could have with this type of party, I'd love to hear them.
That's all for now. I will be picking and raking for a few hours on Sunday, if anybody wants to join, we're trying to get the big stuff dug out so that Mike can really move ahead with final shaping and massaging the track next weekend.
Kevin O'
Monday, June 19, 2006
AA Main Launches at Midwest National #2 - Rockford, IL
Track Update:
The Milwaukee BMX track at Crystal Ridge lives! All of the obstacles and turns are now roughed in, and a special piece of equipment was brought in Friday night to clear the flat sections of the track from rocks. The main group is having a meeting trackside at 7 p.m. Tuesday night (weather permitting) or, alternatively at Benno's in West Allis (if the weather is crummy) to work on some of the details of scheduleing work nights, etc. There's been a whole lotta outside interest in the track, and we're going to need all of your support at some point down the road, but, this meeting will be primarily for the core group that made the initial Benno's meeting, plus Froh and Dickerson if they can make it. We are still hoping that we'll be ready for riders (with or without a gate) by the end of July or possibly into August. Once again (yea verily) much love to the guys and gals at ABA and to Steve Spencer for helping TO John Mittlestadt drive this thing forward
A (painful) reminder for you volunteers to remember that stretching is just as important before raking and track work as it is before you ride. Wednesday night, I didn't take my own advice ... and major back spasms messed up my weekend plans but good. Actually, I didn't give myself that advice Wednesday night ... but, I've heard it from at least 20 people since Thursday morning. So, take their advice, stay happy, stretch.
Midwest Nationals Report:
There were a bunch of guys who will be tearing up Milwaukee BMX that turned in super solid performances at the Midwest Nationals in Rockford this weekend. It started Friday night, with our own Fred Jahnke, who raced his way into the "B Main" of the BS Stops Open for racers 30 and over. Honest Abe, I would surely have wished Fred the best of luck in the last post, had I known he intended to compete. Friday also saw Todd Zimmerman zip in with a fifth in the super competitive 36-40 cruiser class.
Factory Direct Link riders Curt Zizzo and Bryan Dickerson tore up Saturday and Sunday on their cruisers, Tim Eiring came home with a couple of seconds in the superfast 26-30 cruiser class along with a HUGE WIN in 28-35 expert on Saturday.
Randy Behnke finished 3rd (cruiser) Saturday and maybe somewhere around 5th yesterday, and Mike Froh had fourth (Saturday) and fifth (yesterday) place finishes in the 36 and over expert class.
I shot some video of the Sunday cruiser mains, along with some still shots. One of which, came during the A Pro main snap. The gate got "balky" on the Vet Pro main right before the A's ran. And, at the point of "lights" in the cadence of the A Pro gate, when the air ram drives the gate down, the gate popped, but made the worst death creek I've heard from anything mechanical in a long time. Honestly, I thought that was going to be the end of racing for the day ... but, a couple of little tweaks from the master of TO's, Jake Karau, and the gate held up well for the balance of the day.
These two photos (same photo, actually, just cropped) show the A-Pro rack with five riders about to go on their noses (Kappa Sponsored Illinois rider, George Andrews hit hardest in lane 2 ... it took him a couple minutes to get up, collect himself, and get his bars tweaked back to where they were supposed to be before the re-run ... yeah, re-run. How you get yourself up for that after wrecking right out is beyond me).
Note in the detail shot how the section of gate closest to the ram (at gate center, between lanes 4 & 5) is not keeping up with the riders flexing against the gate ends. The gate looks flexed like some big airplane wing at take-off.
The shot below is the re-rack for the A-pros. After the wreck, Vet Pro re-ran their lap ... and then the A's hopped back up to have another go. Amazingly, despite the hard hit just moments earlier that left him on the ground for several minutes, Andrews gets the holeshot. Big respect, you guys, for getting back up there, and being able to maintain your focus ... you put on a good show.
Speaking of Rocks:
There are sure a lot to pick. Work night schedule is going to be published later this week. Let's get it going, bros. BMX in Milwaukee !!! Hallelujah.
Kevin O'
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Patience Prudence !!!
A word for all of those tempted to start riding the track portions that are built ... DON'T. It's not that you can't ... because you probably could get around ... but, my hope that your God takes mercy on you if you fall ... because there a fair amount of rocks that need to be picked out of the surface.
Steve has worked in all the corners (and told me how to rake ... remember, top down after you pick the big stuff out ... after an hour or two out there lifting out rocks I'm sure I'm going to be real glad that I asked), roughed in and rolled in the second straight, and is working about as fast as the equipment, which, let's just say, has a few quirks, has allowed. We can always remind Steve that he told us the loader "looked fine" in a digital photo we sent along.
Allright, Just Show us the Track Already !!!
Getting this shot was kind of crazy ... I hiked straight up the ski hill in chest deep mustard plants. I kept thinking that I really should be trying to keep an eye on the ground through the weeds, as one mis-step could likely have sent me tumbling down that crazy hill ... which would have been the $10,000 video moment for sure. On the right is the start hill .. it's a little hard to tell, but the third turn is "inside" the first turn in the U in a U configuration that Steve is utilizing. Second straight is in, and Steve is in his favorite all time tractor, working the 3rd straight rhythm.
The shot below is the same "uncropped" photo of the rectangular job above. I want really badly to be boastful here and brag about the couple hundred foot ascent I made to get to the point this picture was taken. But, Crystal Ridge just isn't anywhere near that big. I'm probably on the equivolent of a four or five story building where I'm standing.
The next shot shows the second straight from the riders perspective as you exit the first turn. I joked with Steve that where I took this photo from is about as high as anybody is ever likely to see me in a berm. Nice.
What you are looking at is a mach 5 turn that flows into a smallish step-up, a huck double, and a double that looks like it's going to have just perfect flow into the second corner.
The BMX-Hex
No, this doesn't have a thing to do with the NW-BMX team, or Janesville cruiser guy Jerry Hexom (hey Jerry, how's it goin'?) ... what it means (in evidentally, a fairly cryptic way) is that this track is stirring some weird feelings in people. Track Operator Mittlestadt reported witnessing Fred Jahnke staring at the second straight for the better part of an hour, before shouting "This is going to be (Hey Fred ... you reeealllyyy need your very own "Wheel of Adjectives" ... remember, kids may be reading this column !!!) Fred's cuss word adjactive that my innocent fingers won't permit me to type here (sure ... right) AWESOME !!!".
Another weird thing ... like two weeks after he sells what's left of his BMX stuff ... Jason Leikam climbs the start hill and after looking down the first straight for about a milisecond ... decides it's time for another shot. He evidentally has some unfinished business left for BMX ... and after reading this column, it's a safe bet part of that will involve kicking my sorry butt all over the new track.
The ROCK !!!
The Midwest Nationals are going off at Rockford are this weekend ... and I want to wish the best of luck to all of the guys who are helping out on the new track (those that know they are) Bryan Dickerson, Mike Froh, Tim Eiring, Todd Zimmerman, Dana Mittlestadt (as well as those that don't know they are helping yet ... but, belive me, they are !!!) Randy Behnke, Curt Zizzo, Cory Frick.
Rumor Mill
It makes me really happy to report that I got word that Amedio Gilmore is thinking about taking some laps at our new place with an eye toward a possible comeback. Rad-Man (Gilmore) was a hela fast A pro who got bumped up to AA in the late 80's. We wonder who else will MilwaukeeBMX will manage to coax out of retirement?
I'm off to the track ... picking rocks and raking tonight ... if you happen to stop by, be sure and say hello. I'll be the guy dressed in dust.
Kevin O'
A word for all of those tempted to start riding the track portions that are built ... DON'T. It's not that you can't ... because you probably could get around ... but, my hope that your God takes mercy on you if you fall ... because there a fair amount of rocks that need to be picked out of the surface.
Steve has worked in all the corners (and told me how to rake ... remember, top down after you pick the big stuff out ... after an hour or two out there lifting out rocks I'm sure I'm going to be real glad that I asked), roughed in and rolled in the second straight, and is working about as fast as the equipment, which, let's just say, has a few quirks, has allowed. We can always remind Steve that he told us the loader "looked fine" in a digital photo we sent along.
Allright, Just Show us the Track Already !!!
Getting this shot was kind of crazy ... I hiked straight up the ski hill in chest deep mustard plants. I kept thinking that I really should be trying to keep an eye on the ground through the weeds, as one mis-step could likely have sent me tumbling down that crazy hill ... which would have been the $10,000 video moment for sure. On the right is the start hill .. it's a little hard to tell, but the third turn is "inside" the first turn in the U in a U configuration that Steve is utilizing. Second straight is in, and Steve is in his favorite all time tractor, working the 3rd straight rhythm.
The shot below is the same "uncropped" photo of the rectangular job above. I want really badly to be boastful here and brag about the couple hundred foot ascent I made to get to the point this picture was taken. But, Crystal Ridge just isn't anywhere near that big. I'm probably on the equivolent of a four or five story building where I'm standing.
The next shot shows the second straight from the riders perspective as you exit the first turn. I joked with Steve that where I took this photo from is about as high as anybody is ever likely to see me in a berm. Nice.
What you are looking at is a mach 5 turn that flows into a smallish step-up, a huck double, and a double that looks like it's going to have just perfect flow into the second corner.
The BMX-Hex
No, this doesn't have a thing to do with the NW-BMX team, or Janesville cruiser guy Jerry Hexom (hey Jerry, how's it goin'?) ... what it means (in evidentally, a fairly cryptic way) is that this track is stirring some weird feelings in people. Track Operator Mittlestadt reported witnessing Fred Jahnke staring at the second straight for the better part of an hour, before shouting "This is going to be (Hey Fred ... you reeealllyyy need your very own "Wheel of Adjectives" ... remember, kids may be reading this column !!!) Fred's cuss word adjactive that my innocent fingers won't permit me to type here (sure ... right) AWESOME !!!".
Another weird thing ... like two weeks after he sells what's left of his BMX stuff ... Jason Leikam climbs the start hill and after looking down the first straight for about a milisecond ... decides it's time for another shot. He evidentally has some unfinished business left for BMX ... and after reading this column, it's a safe bet part of that will involve kicking my sorry butt all over the new track.
The ROCK !!!
The Midwest Nationals are going off at Rockford are this weekend ... and I want to wish the best of luck to all of the guys who are helping out on the new track (those that know they are) Bryan Dickerson, Mike Froh, Tim Eiring, Todd Zimmerman, Dana Mittlestadt (as well as those that don't know they are helping yet ... but, belive me, they are !!!) Randy Behnke, Curt Zizzo, Cory Frick.
Rumor Mill
It makes me really happy to report that I got word that Amedio Gilmore is thinking about taking some laps at our new place with an eye toward a possible comeback. Rad-Man (Gilmore) was a hela fast A pro who got bumped up to AA in the late 80's. We wonder who else will MilwaukeeBMX will manage to coax out of retirement?
I'm off to the track ... picking rocks and raking tonight ... if you happen to stop by, be sure and say hello. I'll be the guy dressed in dust.
Kevin O'
Monday, June 12, 2006
Track Construction is Underway:
Dream Big, John Mittlestadt ... and relish in your glory, you are standing on your new track's starting hill with your son (cool enough) and former national champ and ABA track building rock star, Steve Spencer.
Monday - June 12: Steve Spencer fired up the bulldozer and started pushing dirt early this a.m. John and Dana Mittlestadt are also on site and directing the fleet of dump trucks that have been bringing the infill and track dirt. Talk about things moving quickly. By 10:30 the starting hill was in place and Steve is just cranking away, according to John.
We're getting a bunch of guys together at Bennos tonight at 7 ... Bennos is Marty Weigel's (Weigel is one of those who have been supporting John's idea for Milwaukee BMX since day one ... and was the first to suggest Crystal Ridge as a potential place to locate the track) corner bar in West Allis ... located a few doors west of the intersection of 71st and Greenfield Avenue, on the South Side of the street. Come on out and join us if you can.
Wow ... a BMX track in Milwaukee ... what a concept, er ... reality ... yeah, that sounds reeeaaalllll nice.
Here's the view from on top of the start hill looking down into what promises to be a very fast first turn. Track orientation is exactly what we didn't think we'd want when we first walked the site ... and, yet, the start hill nearer the chalet will accomodate easier access to power to run the sure start and computer scoring system (will we have a computerized scoring system? Did I just make up something great?) A recent count had a tally of more than 30 dump trucks dropping off loads. That's about 15% of what we'll have total, according to Steve.
Dream Big, John Mittlestadt ... and relish in your glory, you are standing on your new track's starting hill with your son (cool enough) and former national champ and ABA track building rock star, Steve Spencer.
Monday - June 12: Steve Spencer fired up the bulldozer and started pushing dirt early this a.m. John and Dana Mittlestadt are also on site and directing the fleet of dump trucks that have been bringing the infill and track dirt. Talk about things moving quickly. By 10:30 the starting hill was in place and Steve is just cranking away, according to John.
We're getting a bunch of guys together at Bennos tonight at 7 ... Bennos is Marty Weigel's (Weigel is one of those who have been supporting John's idea for Milwaukee BMX since day one ... and was the first to suggest Crystal Ridge as a potential place to locate the track) corner bar in West Allis ... located a few doors west of the intersection of 71st and Greenfield Avenue, on the South Side of the street. Come on out and join us if you can.
Wow ... a BMX track in Milwaukee ... what a concept, er ... reality ... yeah, that sounds reeeaaalllll nice.
These "small" progress photos are all clickable for a larger image:
Here's the view from on top of the start hill looking down into what promises to be a very fast first turn. Track orientation is exactly what we didn't think we'd want when we first walked the site ... and, yet, the start hill nearer the chalet will accomodate easier access to power to run the sure start and computer scoring system (will we have a computerized scoring system? Did I just make up something great?) A recent count had a tally of more than 30 dump trucks dropping off loads. That's about 15% of what we'll have total, according to Steve.
The day started with scraping the site flat and roughing in the first turn.
Steve is working corner #2 by early afternoon.
Is this the building inspector? Or, is it really local 36-40 cruiser ace, Jason Leikam, incognito.
Kevin O'
Friday, June 09, 2006
A plan is like a good start hill ... if it really works, you can build enough momentum to carry yourself to the finish line.
Here's a little story for you as I kick out post numero uno on MILWAUKEEBMX.blogspot.com
It starts about two and a half years ago at Ben's Cycle on Lincoln Avenue in Milwaukee. I'm in normal bargain hunting mode (Ben's lists tons of stuff up on eBay) and notice a little sign near the cash register that says "Metro BMX ... bringing BMX back to Milwaukee ... call ..." A lot of friends and I had reminisced about the early days of Milwaukee area tracks, the Ranch, Oak Creek, State Fair Park and others ... but, despite the shared disappointment that nothing like that existed now, none of us seemed to have really have the inclination to get something going again. And, here it was ... a little piece of paper ... with an idea for a plan.
Get a couple good cranks:
This is a real good place to introduce John Mittlestadt, a great new friend, and BMX dad extraordinaire. When I was 13, I knew another dad like John, his name was Murray Patz, and he did more than you can imagine to promote BMX in the town I grew up in. We probably all knew a kid with a dad like John way back when ... he's the dad we all secretly wanted ours to be like. Stoked on BMX and making sure we had a place to race ... and, promoting "our" sport along the way.
John's son Dana is a racer and his daughter Leah has helped with promotion. In the interest of helping them scratch their BMX itch -- John's has worked diligently since the moment he made those posters; listned to thousands of ideas; sifted through hundreds of potential track sites, patiently negotiated a deal through a series of meetings that lasted nearly a year; reviewed the pros and cons of the major sanctioning bodies; and after all of that -- finally called a meeting a couple of weeks ago among those who expressed interest in starting a new club. Since I'm a also a dad of a 6 year old with big dreams of "jumping the dubs" and "winning trophies", John didn't have to tug very hard to get me to help. But, let me be absolutely clear about this ... John did everything to lay the groundwork for what is unfolding as this is written ... and for that, he IS the man.
Pumping and gaining momentum
Which brings us to this moment.
If all goes well ... GROUND BREAKS on construction for the new Milwaukee BMX track on Monday, June 12th.
Things have happened so quickly that it's really kind of mind boggling. John has been talking with John David at the American Bicycle Association, and yeah, we're definitely going ABA. I had a great conversation with Bill Curtin at ABA earlier this week about all sorts of cool things we could bring to our track, Bill was really successful with new rider retention at his track in MA ... and basically gave me the recipe book for how to keep new riders coming back again and again. Jason Leikam, a Milwaukee local who has been a friend for more than 20 years now (jeez ... has it really been that long?) invited his friend, Steve Spencer, who is like the #2 track builder for ABA at the moment, to throw in his 2 cents on our track design. Steve recently redesigned Utah's Rad Canyon BMX track ... and a lot of people are just raving about the new layout. Spencer and Billy Allen are like the Frank Lloyd Wright and Santiago Calatrava of BMX track design.
Tuesday of this week, I got my first chance to walk the site with local track builders Mike Froh and Bryan Dickerson, along with Tim Eiring and John. It's easy to tell that we're all pretty equally stoked as after the discussion about the track broke up, about a 30 minute bench racing session followed near the track.
I'll tell ya ... Mike Froh and Bryan Dickerson are both friends, and excellent track designers / builders (together or individually, they have put together the Elkhorn / Walworth BMX tracks for probably the last 7 to 10 years straight. Their tracks are fun, have flow, and are always baby's butt smooth. Mike's involvement at Elkhorn probably goes back even further than that as Bryan came back into racing around 2000, if memory serves. We're totally fortunate that these two really experienced and totally professional guys have stepped up to help work out the details of the track after Steve completes the initial layout. Speaking of the initial layout, here it is:
Rockin' and Rollin' through the rhythm
Spencer will be in Milwaukee for the first part of next week, and with tremendous cooperation from John Kaishian, the operator of Crystal Ridge Ski Hill in Franklin, who is allowing Spencer the use of his earth moving equipment, we hope that a great deal of progress will be made in roughing in the layout and jumps. Finish work will be done by a bunch of us little monkeys running around with rakes and shovels. Mike's experience as a landscaper, having operated a wide variety of equipment from skid steers to large earth movers, will also prove invaluable. Mike has additionally volunteered to build the gate, and John and I will keep trying to convince the ABA to lend a hand with the sure start and air ram for the gate. If all goes well ... I believe we're going to have a real life track, complete with a gate, by sometime around August. If you know somebody who volunteers for to help with this work ... make sure they feel your love ... this is going to take a lot of effort to get the thing up and running.
At the finish line, a new beginning
Okay, I know I'm being pretty over the top with the little headline things ... but, seriously ... when Steve and the local guys complete work on the track, it's a whole new beginning for BMX in Milwaukee. The plan, at the moment, shoots for holding a couple of new rider clinics later this summer, with a goal of running one or two races, before we close up for the winter. ABA is really helping out a fair amount for the small amount of pay-back that we can try and deliver in 2006. But, optimistically, 2007 will be a great year for Milwaukee BMX.
Thanks!
Personally, I want to thank everyone who has kept John's plan in motion over the last two years. Particularly his wife, who I have not yet met, for allowing him to follow through. John Kaishian, of course, for being the one in a hundred that said "yeah, sure, why not?". All the dudes who made the meeting in West Allis a few weeks ago. The guys at ABA for being supportive and filling our heads with big ideas. Spencer for putting together a totally killer design that looks like it's going to really have a ton of flow. Froh and Dickerson for committing to making the design sing. And, yeah ... my mom ... for getting her ratty little 8 year old his first BMX back in the late 1970's, an old Huffy MX style thing with a #4 number plate.
I think we've got the momentum to carry us to where we want to be. And I'm hoping that you'll join in and enjoy the ride.
Kevin O'Donnell
Here's a little story for you as I kick out post numero uno on MILWAUKEEBMX.blogspot.com
It starts about two and a half years ago at Ben's Cycle on Lincoln Avenue in Milwaukee. I'm in normal bargain hunting mode (Ben's lists tons of stuff up on eBay) and notice a little sign near the cash register that says "Metro BMX ... bringing BMX back to Milwaukee ... call ..." A lot of friends and I had reminisced about the early days of Milwaukee area tracks, the Ranch, Oak Creek, State Fair Park and others ... but, despite the shared disappointment that nothing like that existed now, none of us seemed to have really have the inclination to get something going again. And, here it was ... a little piece of paper ... with an idea for a plan.
Get a couple good cranks:
This is a real good place to introduce John Mittlestadt, a great new friend, and BMX dad extraordinaire. When I was 13, I knew another dad like John, his name was Murray Patz, and he did more than you can imagine to promote BMX in the town I grew up in. We probably all knew a kid with a dad like John way back when ... he's the dad we all secretly wanted ours to be like. Stoked on BMX and making sure we had a place to race ... and, promoting "our" sport along the way.
John's son Dana is a racer and his daughter Leah has helped with promotion. In the interest of helping them scratch their BMX itch -- John's has worked diligently since the moment he made those posters; listned to thousands of ideas; sifted through hundreds of potential track sites, patiently negotiated a deal through a series of meetings that lasted nearly a year; reviewed the pros and cons of the major sanctioning bodies; and after all of that -- finally called a meeting a couple of weeks ago among those who expressed interest in starting a new club. Since I'm a also a dad of a 6 year old with big dreams of "jumping the dubs" and "winning trophies", John didn't have to tug very hard to get me to help. But, let me be absolutely clear about this ... John did everything to lay the groundwork for what is unfolding as this is written ... and for that, he IS the man.
Pumping and gaining momentum
Which brings us to this moment.
If all goes well ... GROUND BREAKS on construction for the new Milwaukee BMX track on Monday, June 12th.
Things have happened so quickly that it's really kind of mind boggling. John has been talking with John David at the American Bicycle Association, and yeah, we're definitely going ABA. I had a great conversation with Bill Curtin at ABA earlier this week about all sorts of cool things we could bring to our track, Bill was really successful with new rider retention at his track in MA ... and basically gave me the recipe book for how to keep new riders coming back again and again. Jason Leikam, a Milwaukee local who has been a friend for more than 20 years now (jeez ... has it really been that long?) invited his friend, Steve Spencer, who is like the #2 track builder for ABA at the moment, to throw in his 2 cents on our track design. Steve recently redesigned Utah's Rad Canyon BMX track ... and a lot of people are just raving about the new layout. Spencer and Billy Allen are like the Frank Lloyd Wright and Santiago Calatrava of BMX track design.
Tuesday of this week, I got my first chance to walk the site with local track builders Mike Froh and Bryan Dickerson, along with Tim Eiring and John. It's easy to tell that we're all pretty equally stoked as after the discussion about the track broke up, about a 30 minute bench racing session followed near the track.
I'll tell ya ... Mike Froh and Bryan Dickerson are both friends, and excellent track designers / builders (together or individually, they have put together the Elkhorn / Walworth BMX tracks for probably the last 7 to 10 years straight. Their tracks are fun, have flow, and are always baby's butt smooth. Mike's involvement at Elkhorn probably goes back even further than that as Bryan came back into racing around 2000, if memory serves. We're totally fortunate that these two really experienced and totally professional guys have stepped up to help work out the details of the track after Steve completes the initial layout. Speaking of the initial layout, here it is:
Rockin' and Rollin' through the rhythm
Spencer will be in Milwaukee for the first part of next week, and with tremendous cooperation from John Kaishian, the operator of Crystal Ridge Ski Hill in Franklin, who is allowing Spencer the use of his earth moving equipment, we hope that a great deal of progress will be made in roughing in the layout and jumps. Finish work will be done by a bunch of us little monkeys running around with rakes and shovels. Mike's experience as a landscaper, having operated a wide variety of equipment from skid steers to large earth movers, will also prove invaluable. Mike has additionally volunteered to build the gate, and John and I will keep trying to convince the ABA to lend a hand with the sure start and air ram for the gate. If all goes well ... I believe we're going to have a real life track, complete with a gate, by sometime around August. If you know somebody who volunteers for to help with this work ... make sure they feel your love ... this is going to take a lot of effort to get the thing up and running.
At the finish line, a new beginning
Okay, I know I'm being pretty over the top with the little headline things ... but, seriously ... when Steve and the local guys complete work on the track, it's a whole new beginning for BMX in Milwaukee. The plan, at the moment, shoots for holding a couple of new rider clinics later this summer, with a goal of running one or two races, before we close up for the winter. ABA is really helping out a fair amount for the small amount of pay-back that we can try and deliver in 2006. But, optimistically, 2007 will be a great year for Milwaukee BMX.
Thanks!
Personally, I want to thank everyone who has kept John's plan in motion over the last two years. Particularly his wife, who I have not yet met, for allowing him to follow through. John Kaishian, of course, for being the one in a hundred that said "yeah, sure, why not?". All the dudes who made the meeting in West Allis a few weeks ago. The guys at ABA for being supportive and filling our heads with big ideas. Spencer for putting together a totally killer design that looks like it's going to really have a ton of flow. Froh and Dickerson for committing to making the design sing. And, yeah ... my mom ... for getting her ratty little 8 year old his first BMX back in the late 1970's, an old Huffy MX style thing with a #4 number plate.
I think we've got the momentum to carry us to where we want to be. And I'm hoping that you'll join in and enjoy the ride.
Kevin O'Donnell
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