EDMONTON BMX ASSOCIATION: A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY CLUB MEMBERSHIPS, DONATIONS, AND GRANTS
Established in 1995, the Edmonton BMX Association stands as one of Alberta's largest BMX clubs, accommodating members aged 5 to 55, with 90% under the age of 16. We are committed to fostering health and fitness while creating opportunities for families and youth. We emphasize true sportsmanship and respect, aiming to instill a healthy value system in all our members and visitors. We warmly invite you to join the thrilling world of BMX racing, an exciting sport for individuals and families alike.
WHAT IS BMX RACING?
BMX racing is defined as "sprint cycling on a specially designed dirt track." Races typically occur on tracks measuring 300-400 meters in length, featuring a variety of jumps, straights, and banked corners known as "berms." Each race consists of a maximum of eight riders competing for one lap, grouped by age and/or ability. The sport values inclusivity, offering equal opportunities for both genders and providing high-quality competitive experiences for all participants.
A BMX race bike is a lightweight bicycle crafted from steel, carbon, or aluminum, designed for speed and maneuverability on dirt tracks or paved surfaces. These bikes usually feature a small frame, narrow tires, high handlebars, and a rear brake only, built for quick acceleration and tight turns while maintaining minimal suspension for enhanced efficiency. The bike is engineered with a high gear ratio, enabling riders to reach top speeds.
SIZING A BMX BIKE
When sizing a BMX racing bike, it's important to consider both height and inseam measurements. Generally, a rider's height should correspond with the top tube length of the bike, while the inseam measurement should match the standover height.
LICENSING AND INSURANCE
To participate, you will need an ABA/UCI license, which serves as your insurance under a secondary medical policy. You will also need a club membership with Edmonton BMX. Registration can be completed through our website. While joining our club is not mandatory, only club members have access to loaner equipment, coached practice nights, and open tracks.
RACING
To compete in BMX races, certain equipment is mandatory. A BMX race bike is essential. A number plate of the correct color and featuring the appropriate number with your assigned plate number.
A BMX race consists of three races, we call them"motos"
Depending on the number of registered athletes in your category you may have quarterfinals, semifinals, and a main event. Each moto begins at the starting gate, where a maximum of eight riders of similar age and ability start simultaneously, racing to the finish line.
The winner of each moto is the first racer to cross the finish line. Riders are ranked based on their finishes across all three races, accumulating "points." The rider with the lowest total points wins the race.
For example, if Rider A finishes with a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place (totaling 6 points), Rider B with a 2nd, 1st, and 1st (totaling 4 points), and Rider C with 3rd, 3rd, and 2nd (totaling 7 points), then Rider B would be declared the winner.
A minimum of three racers is required in a category to conduct a race.
If there are more than 8 but fewer than 17 riders, a "Main" will be held.
If there are 17 but fewer than 24 riders, semifinals will lead to a Main.
If there are 24 but fewer than 32 riders, there will be a quarterfinal, semifinal, and a Main.
BUILDING MOTOS
If there are not enough riders to form a class (a minimum of 3), you will need to move up to the next age group at your skill level. If that still does not create a class, you will be placed in the class closest to your age and skill level. This process can be confusing, but it adheres to the rules set by the ABA.
This rule applies to all ages and skill levels, which means younger riders may be moved up to match your age and skill level. If you find yourself moved up in age or skill, don’t be discouraged; it’s a chance to see how you measure up against older or more experienced riders.
CATEGORY
Male athletes compete in three categories: Novice, Intermediate, and Expert. Female athletes have two categories: Novice and Expert. Cruiser have age group categories.
MOVE UPS
Riders will upgrade their skill levels based on the number of wins achieved, counted as race wins—not moto wins. Wins at the district (club level) and provincial levels count towards upgrades, with provincial wins counting as two. Wins do not expire, so they can be accumulated over multiple seasons.
Every racer begins as a NOVICE. Boys can advance to Intermediate after 10 wins and then to Expert after 20 Intermediate wins. Girls move directly from Novice to Expert after 25 wins. While Alberta Bicycle tracks these wins, it’s advisable to keep your own record, as wins refer to overall victories in a race night rather than “per moto” wins.
RIDING DAYS
Race Nights (varies; refer to TeamSnap/website calendar)
5:30 - 6:45 pm: Open Track / practice
6:45 pm: Strider races
7:00 pm: Gate Drops!
Practice Nights
5:30 - 6:30 pm: New/Novice Riders
6:30 - 8:00 pm: Intermediate/Expert Riders
Open track Nights
5:30 - 8:00 pm: Open Track anyone can ride, must have UCI licenses or sign the one time trial waiver.
The track is closed on holiday Mondays. The Mondays following a provincial race typically feature open track. In cases of frequent rainouts, we may hold races. Updates will be provided on TeamSnap/Social Media on race day.
RACE DAY REGISTRATION
Registration closes at 6:30pm on race nights - NO EXCEPTIONS!
Ensure you arrive at the track by 6:00 pm and check Sqorz.com for the accuracy of your racer’s details. Failing to do so may cause race delays or disqualification if a rider races in the wrong category or with an incorrect plate number.
Rider sheets will be posted on Sqorz by 6:30 pm. A printed copy will also be displayed outside the bike repair shed next to the start hill. These sheets will remain posted for about 10 minutes before we begin building the Motos. Once completed, Moto Sheets will be posted on Sqorz and in the same location as the Rider Sheets, with an announcement confirming their posting.
Check the Moto Sheets for your race and gate numbers. It’s wise to bring masking or painter’s tape and a marker to note your race details on your bike's top tube.
Once you have your moto and gate information, promptly proceed to staging, as racing will commence shortly after the Motos are posted. We will call for “Rider To Staging” and begin with Moto #1, continuing in numerical order. It’s your responsibility to ensure you are at the gate for your moto.
After finishing your moto, pass through the finish area without stopping—this is a safety measure. Please do NOT ride straight through the parking lot! Riders should come to a complete stop by the property fence.
After your first moto, grab a quick drink and return to staging to get ready for race #2, races can progress quickly.
Be mindful of the number of riders in your class; if it exceeds 8, a Main will occur at the end of the night. Don’t leave after your third moto until you confirm whether you’ve qualified for the Main.
Once racing has concluded, we calculate your score, and hand out placement stickers at the moto shed. We also give a tracking card, so you can keep track of wins.
To find out how many wins you have, you can contact Alberta Bicycle Association by email and ask.
WHAT GEAR DO I NEED?
A helmet meeting CSA standards is mandatory.
Long-sleeve shirt, tear-resistant long pants (no denim), full-finger gloves, and closed-toe shoes are required. Shorts are allowed but must be accompanied by shin and knee protection.
Body armor, neck braces, elbow pads, and knee/shin guards are highly recommended, though not mandatory.
Jerseys should be tucked into pants, with sleeves long enough to cover skin between the cuff and glove.
Sweat or track pants are discouraged at district racing and prohibited at provincial and higher-level events.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR BIKE:
Check the frame, fork, and wheels for any cracks or damage.
Position handlebars close to vertical or in line with the fork.
You’ll need a front plate; first-time riders should use the last three digits of their UCI license.
Lubricate all moving parts, including cables, brake pivot bolts, and the chain.
Ensure the chain tension is appropriate to prevent it from falling off during racing.
If you require assistance, feel free to ask any track executive member or volunteer!
HINTS FOR NEW RIDERS:
Standing for the entire lap aids bike handling and helps navigate obstacles more swiftly.
Focus on all sections of the track during practice.
Stay low on jumps.
Learn to balance at the gate with both feet on the pedals.
Practice gate starts from all 8 lanes.
Train at various tracks to become familiar with different start gates, hills, jumps, berms, and rhythm sections. Be ready for anything!
Attend any BMX clinics available throughout the season.
IN SUMMARY:
Register online by 5 pm on race nights. at the track till 6:30pm (registration line on website and social media)
Check Sqorz/the Rider Sheet by 6:30 pm. Our Sqorz
Confirm your name is on the list and that your age class and plate number are accurate.
Listen for the announcement that the Moto Sheets are posted; this indicates which races you are in, and we will proceed accordingly.
Racing will begin around 7:00 pm, provided everyone is organized and prepared.
EDMONTON BMX VOLUNTEER POLICY 2025
Each family is required to complete 20 volunteer credits over the season (May-September), or their $400 deposit cheque or Visa will be charged. Note that this policy applies to the family as a whole, not individual riders.
Cheques should be dated for October 1st of the current year.
Each family must complete at least two shifts for the Provincials. Credits earned at these events will not count towards the required 20 credits.
When we have a Casino, we will look for help to fill 44 spots.
Independent riders over 16 years of age need only complete 10 credits during the season. Independent riders are those who manage their own racing logistics without family support.
Positions and descriptions can be found on our website. Volunteer credits will be tracked via the email used, so all family members must use ONE email for tracking purposes.
Families may sign up using the provided SignUp link or at the track if spots are available. Please notify the volunteer coordinator at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot fulfill your signed-up position.
Families that sign up and do not show up will lose 1 credit. A summary of credits will only be given upon request to the volunteer coordinator.
Reimbursements for injuries or other exemptions, such as family transfers to different areas during summer, will be at the board's discretion. No reimbursements will be made if a child decides they no longer want to participate. Trial licenses are available for families wishing to try BMX before fully committing to the season.
EDMONTON BMX FUNDRAISING POLICY 2025
Upon signing up for the club, there is a fundraising requirement per family, not per athlete.
Commit to selling $100 worth of $10 raffle tickets (or keep them for yourself).
Provide an item for the provincial race raffle with a minimum value of $50, either through purchase or soliciting a local business donation. A letter authorizing you to act on behalf of the club will be provided. Alternatively, you can submit a $50 cheque for us to buy a donation item for you.
ALBERTA BICYCLE ASSOCIATION CODE OF CONDUCT
Athletes, parents, volunteers, and spectators are expected to uphold the ABA Code of Conduct, which includes:
Competing and participating in a spirit of fair play and honesty.
Following the rules set by Alberta Bicycle, Cycling Canada, and UCI.
Avoiding the use and distribution of banned substances.
Refraining from using offensive language.
Treating fellow participants, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators with respect.
Acting in a manner that reflects positively on the BMX community.
Ensuring the safety of others while participating in BMX.
Demonstrating good sportsmanship and cheering for all participants.
Upholding the rules, respecting officials and facilities, and maintaining self-control at all times.
Participation in BMX events is a privilege, not a right.
AGE REQUIREMENT
BMX racing welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, providing opportunities for competition. Riders must turn five during the calendar year to be licensed by ABA/UCI. For children under 5, we offer strider bike races on most race nights.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT BMX RACING?
BMX racing allows riders of all ages to learn new skills, build self-confidence, and foster friendships. It is one of the few sports that accommodates such a wide age range and ability levels, ensuring everyone can find a suitable competition fit.
TRY IT OUT BEFORE COMMITTING.
First-time visitors to a BMX track can try the sport by signing a one-event waiver. If you enjoy it, you can then purchase a yearly license through the Alberta Bicycle Association website. A full race license enables you to compete at any affiliated track in the province,
RACES AVAILABLE AT ALL TRACKS AROUND ALBERTA
There are 11 BMX clubs around Alberta, you are welcome to go race at any of them. You will need a full UCI race license, which is recognized globally. It allows participation in Alberta BMX, CC, and UCI-sanctioned events worldwide. We highly recommend obtaining additional insurance when racing outside Canada. This license enables participation in the complete Provincial and National series, as well as any UCI event globally.
WHO OWNS AND RUNS THE BMX TRACKS?
Alberta BMX race tracks are non-profit organizations run by volunteer executives or boards, not owned by any individual.
LEVELS OF RACING
DISTRICT LEVEL RACING (1st level of BMX)
This is the entry-level for BMX racing, where you will compete against local racers throughout the season. Points are tallied at the end of the year to determine your final ranking.
PROVINCIAL LEVEL RACING
Alberta BMX hosts a series of "Provincial" level races that allow you to test your skills against riders throughout the province. No qualifications or expert-level racing is required. Classes are organized similarly to district races, spanning a series of eight races followed by a final race called "Grands" in early September. At the end of the year, racers who participate in at least four series races plus Grands earn a “P” plate for the next year based on their results. For more information, consult fellow racers at the track or visit www.albertabmx.com.
PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Following the Grands, the Alberta Championships are held on the same track. This race operates differently than district races, without ability classes—only sex and age are considered. Therefore, all 9-year-old boys race together, and all 12-year-old girls race together, and so forth. There will be 1/8’s, Semi’s, and Mains, with athletes in the Main receiving “AB” plates according to their finishing positions.
CCA CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
The CCA organizes the Canadian Championships annually, where winners of each age class earn the highest recognized UCI/CCA Canadian ranking. As with the Provincial Championships, there are no ability classes, only sex and age. Athletes who reach the Main are awarded “N” plates based on their finishing positions.
UCI WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Achieving the UCI World Champion number plate is the pinnacle of success in BMX. To qualify for Canada’s team, you must meet the criteria through a series of events specified by the Canadian BMX Association during the preceding season. Athletes in the Main are awarded “W” plates.
RULES
For complete UCI rules, please refer to the UCI RULE BOOK. The following rules apply to most BMX racetracks; it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules at any track you visit, as they are in place for safety. A full breakdown of rules can be found on the Alberta BMX Association website, Alberta Bicycle Association website, or UCI website.
Helmets are mandatory at ALL TIMES.
If you’re on your bike, you MUST WEAR YOUR HELMET, including in the parking lot. Individuals not wearing a helmet will receive one warning; repeated violations may lead to membership suspension.
Only racers aged 13 and older may use clipless pedals.
Can I assist my child in the starting gate?
Parents may help children aged 6 and under by holding their rear wheel while they balance in the gate.
What happens if my rider crashes?
Certified first aid officials are present on the track at all times. Parents are NOT ALLOWED ON THE TRACK DURING RACING. In the event of a crash, please stay behind the fence for your own safety, unless called onto the track.
What you need to ride
To ride the track, ensure you have the following gear:
Long sleeve shirt
Full-length pants (not denim)
Full-faced helmet
Full-fingered gloves
Remove any pegs and reflectors from your bike.
EXTRA INFO:
BASIC BIKE CHECKLIST
Wheels/Tires
Properly inflated 60-90psi (depending on weather and rider ability)
Good tread condition
Spokes intact
Axles not protruding more than 5 mm
Tightened axle nuts
Wheels running true and round
Bars
Grips capped at both ends
No cracks or bends
Correct angle
Headset
Tight
All bolts present
Accessories
No chain guard, pegs, kickstands, or reflectors
Brakes
Fully functional
Non-frayed cables
Present cable ends
Even brake pads, not worn
Smoothly rounded brake lever end
Seat
Securely fixed
No cracks
Safe condition
Cranks/Pedals
Tightly fastened
No movement on the pedal axle
Smoothly running bottom bracket bearings
Frame
No cracks
No added parts
Check welds
Number Plates
Cannot extend above the crossbar
Must be securely attached
Numbers must be a minimum of 3” high and 1.5” wide
No stickers covering any part of the numbers
Correct number plate must be displayed for each race