By Kai Sakakibara
Cycling is a fantastic activity, because it doesn’t matter how old you are, it’s the one sport where you could have kids from three to adults of 103 riding. Luckily in Helensburgh we can do all types of cycling, BMX tricks in the park and one of the best mountain bike trails that is in use constantly. We also have some great roads for biking which is why the 2022 UCI Road World Championships will be held here – 1000+ riders from 70+ countries is going to be really cool.
When I was racing BMX before my crash, my sister and I had to travel round the world to participate in high-level racing events. The fact that the Road World Championships is coming to Helensburgh is amazing. Top level international competition on our doorstep, Helensburgh is going to become famous.
I have been asked to be a judge at the Freestyle BMX show at Helensburgh Skate Park. It’s a bit of fun but I’m going to do the best I can. This is the first time that I will be able to participate in this type of competition and sleep in my own bed at night.
I remember when the skate park was built, I was in year 5 at Helensburgh Public School. If I didn’t get there early enough it was impossible to get on the ramps because it was too packed. I have a feeling it will be even more packed as we get closer to the event.
As for me, things are going really well. I will always miss riding my BMX bike, however, I am learning new things that I have never had the opportunity to do before.
I’m focussed on the things I can do — working on getting better and setting new goals.
One thing is for sure, I want to compete in sport at the highest level — I’m not sure which sport but something where I can put in 100% effort.
In the mean time I’m really looking forward to the Spin Fest, it is amazing for Helensburgh and it’s going to be great fun.
Please come up to say hello if you see me around.
Learn to ride
By Olivia Reed, of Monster Skatepark
Monster Skatepark is excited to offer ‘Learn to Ride’ lessons for BMX, Scooter and Skateboarding at SpinFest! We will be bringing all of the equipment you need to learn how to skate, scoot or ride BMX. Participants will be coached by some of Sydney's top professional athletes and coaches. We will be joined by top Australian skater Lachie Abbott and the 2019 UCI BMX Freestyle World Champion Brandon Loupos. Not only will you be coached by the pros, but you'll get to watch them show off their skills during three demos! We'll even be hosting a fun contest where you can show off your new learns, so don't miss out!
Pick up tricks
By Derek Lungu, South Coast Skateboards
South Coast Skateboards will have Team riders at Spin Fest. These riders will be doing demos, displaying tricks and teaching kids the basic tricks through to the advanced tricks. We will also have a pop-up store on display where people can buy everything from skateboards to our latest merchandise. We will also be giving away free South Coast Skateboards balloons and stickers.
Need to know
Spin Fest Helensburgh is on Friday, 23 Sept 3-8pm, at the Skate Park and nearby sports fields and bike tracks. Free, all ages.
It’s part of a city-wide program of events.
