Get to Know More about Mile High BMX in Colorado and How to Get Started!

Did you know that BMX Racing is one of America’s fastest-growing outdoor sports and that it is popular across all ages? From toddlers with balance bikes to adults who love to race, BMX is here to stay and we’re here to help you learn more about it!

The images included were provided by Sew-it-All and Mile High BMX with their permission to reuse.

What Is BMX?

Before chatting with Mile High BMX President, Shane Meyer, and his lovely wife; Renee Meyer, who have two kids (ages 10 & 16) that race at a highly competitive level, as well as the Mother of two BMX state champions, Alicia Pucci, I honestly knew very little about the world of BMX racing. I’ve seen BMX tracks along my playground travels and always wondered how kids go from regular bike riding to BMX racing. I am excited to share what it’s all about and how your kids (or yourselves!) can get started.

According to USA Cycling, “Bicycle Motocross (BMX) is a sport for the whole family.” Athletes between the ages of 5 and 70 regularly compete locally as well as on the national circuit through USABMX. BMX racing is a clean, exciting, wholesome activity that the entire family can get involved in, whether it be as a new rider or racer, spectator, pit crew or track volunteer. Races are organized according to age groups and skill levels, so everyone gets the opportunity to compete on a fair and competitive basis.

BMX bikes come in many sizes (from 8″ to 24″ tires) with only one gear and a rear brake, typically a hand brake. The riders will speed by, rarely sitting down on the bike, as they cover the race course. A huge difference from other sports where the fields/courts are “regulation size” is that no two BMX tracks are identical!

Mile High BMX

Address: 3606 S Independence St, Denver, CO 80235

Mile High BMX is the longest track in Colorado and is located at the Schaefer Athletic Complex. Volunteers and sponsors keep the track in great condition for the community and has riders of all ages. Renee Meyer shared that “BMX is a healthy and safe sport for all ages; we (BMX) have riders of all levels; from two-year-old kids on balance bikes to Miss Kitty, the current oldest BMX rider at 75 years old.”

The track at Mile High BMX is open to the public for practice and races; Monday practice 5:30-7:00pm, Thursday practice at 5:30pm with race following at 6:30pm, and Sunday is the primary Race Day with practice at 10:30am and races beginning near 12:00pm.

A per-person Track fee of $8 for practices and $15 for races apply. There is also a $2 fee for a 1 day temporary license or all riders must have a USA BMX Membership ($40 for 60 days or $80 for annual membership) which is good at every USA BMX track in the USA.

How Safe is BMX?

As with every sport, there is a level of risk associated, however, knowing your limitations and riding at your skill level will help. Riders are encouraged to wear proper safety gear, including full-face helmets, long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and both elbow and knee pads. Mile High BMX has many loaner helmets and some gear that is available at no charge.

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Thank you to Sew-it-All in Littleton for sponsoring this article! Sew-it-All currently has registration open for summer camps and they sound like “sew” much fun! The camps are offered 9am to 12pm or 1pm to 4pm and you have the option to sign up for both and stay through the lunch hour at no extra cost! Visit their website for all summer camp offerings (as well as classes, holiday events and parent crafting nights).

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Local BMX Racing Family

I have had the opportunity to hear more about BMX from Alicia Pucci, Mother of current reigning state champions in their age classes, Daisy and Charlie. Her children began riding and competing in BMX in 2021, Daisy was 5 and Charlie was 7. “They have always loved riding bikes and discovered BMX races after meeting other racers at the local pump tracks.” In just a few years, Daisy is now ranked 4th in the nation and Charlie is ranked 9th!

I loved hearing from someone that has been deeply involved with BMX racing. Alicia shared that there are many benefits to BMX, from the fitness aspect with strength and stamina, to the life lessons learned through any sport. They’ll learn “how to win, how to lose, how to be humble and how to be a good sportsman.”

What have we learned? BMX can be for all ages and a great family sport! If someone you know loves riding their bike, racing around and trying tricks, they should check out Mile High BMX.

Playgrounds Nearby!

There are actually two NEW playgrounds at Schaefer Athletic Complex!

Do you have a question about BMX Racing or Mile High BMX? Leave us a comment below.

Thanks for joining us at Slides & Sunshine. Now it’s time to get out there and PLAY!

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